Minutes - Public Works Committee - 09/21/2021

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Mr. Blanchard stated that perhaps if there were a sign for a crosswalk, traffic would slow, but noted that there are not sidewalks in that location so he was unsure that would make sense. He believed that a stop sign would be best. Councilmember Musgrove stated that people become dependent on a stop sign as traffic control, but people do not always pay attention to that. She stated that in rural sections intersections with no control seem to work best as everyone has to pay attention. She asked for staff input on a yield sign. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated that he believes yield signs are ineffective. He noted that this is a urban section and therefore people should already be paying attention. He noted that stop signs would not be placed on Garnet because that is the larger road. Mr. Blanchard stated that there is no control in place now. He stated that if there is a problem,that should be controlled with a stop sign rather than tree trimming. He commented on the high number of children riding bicycles in the neighborhood and stopping that traffic as it comes into the neighborhood would be helpful. Chairperson Riley stated that he did not believe a yield sign would provide benefit. Councilmember Woestehoff asked where the request was generated from. Mr. Blanchard stated that he suggested the stop sign. Chairperson Riley asked and received confirmation that the trees that would be trimmed are located in the right-of-way. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated that his concern would be that if there were an accident it could be mentioned that the trees should have been trimmed for visibility. Mr. Blanchard acknowledged the comment that people do not always stop at stop signs, but stated that if they do not stop, they would be breaking the law. Chairperson Riley commented that the number of trips and traffic counts would not support a stop sign. He noted that the speed threshold was also not met. He stated that there is another threshold that takes into account different circumstances such as hills or accidents and that threshold is not met. He stated that the City receives many requests for stop signs,but most do not meet the criteria. Mr. Blanchard commented that a stop sign would make the neighborhood safer. He stated that a stop sign was placed at the next intersection, and he was told that decision was political and therefore seems to be a situation of who you know. Public Works Superintendent Riemer stated that his job is to provide the recommendation based on the criteria. Public Works Committee/ September 21, 2021 Page 3 of 6