Minutes - Public Works Committee - 09/19/2006

Home

City Engineer Jankowski explained that particular request will be discussed later in the agenda. At the time this request was agreed to it was acknowledged that a speed lower speed limit would be considered when the area develops more. Chairperson Elvig suggested staff review the placement of the speed limit sign on 167th Avenue, as it is easy to miss in the current location. City Engineer Jankowski replied in preparation for this case staff noted the location of the current placement of speed limit signs, and has indicated there are a few additional signs that would be placed. The Committee may want to include in the motion that staff review the sign placement and add additional signs where warranted. Councilmember Olson inquired what the situation will be where 167th is continued to Variolite Street in the future. Public Works Director Olson replied this will be similar to the current situation with Alpine Drive. 167th Avenue does not hold a 50 mph speed limit in the future as the area starts to urbanize. That being said, they will need to think about what 167th Avenue will look like when it is constructed west of CR 5. It will likely be constructed with a less than 50 mph speed limit design initially. Councilmember Olson inquired about the engineering study that will be completed to determine the speed limit. City Engineer Jankowski explained primarily a speed study is done to determine the speed limit, although other types of measurements are used also. Typically the speed study determines the responsible speed to be that at which 85% of the drivers are traveling. Chairperson Elvig inquired about the funding source for the speed study. Public Works Director Olson replied payment is provided by the state; there is no cost to the City. Motion by Councilmember Olson, seconded by Councilmember Cook, to recommend to City Council that the City request speed studies be conducted on the following street segments: (a) Alpine Drive from Armstrong Boulevard to TH 47; and (b) Sunwood Drive from Ramsey Boulevard to Nowthen Boulevard; and that staff be directed to review and add speed signs where appropriate. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Elvig, Councilmembers Olson and Cook. Voting No: None. Case #2: Discuss Placement of Crosswalks on County Roads City Engineer Jankowski indicated staff has been requested to place this topic on the Public Works Committee agenda for a general discussion by Councilman David Jeffrey. Public Works Committee /September 19, 2006 Page 3 of 9