Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Department of Public Works

Traffic Engineering Division

TO:	Charles Soules, Director of Public Works
FROM:	David Woosley, Transportation/Traffic Engineer
CC:	David Cronin, City Engineer
Date:	28 August 2013
RE:	3 September 2013 City Commission Agenda Item 7^th Street & Alabama Street Multi-Way Stop or Speed Humps

Background

On August 5, 2013, the Traffic Safety Commission heard a request to establish a MULIT-WAY STOP or SPEED HUMPS at the intersection of 7^th Street & Alabama Street. Traffic data collected July 10-11 found that none of the criteria for a MULTI-WAY STOP were met; however, the 85^th percentile speed of traffic on Alabama Street was measured at 26.3mph, which is more than 5mph over the posted speed limit of 20mph; therefore, the City’s criteria was met for consideration of SPEED HUMPS.

Traffic Safety Commission Action

At the Traffic Safety Commission meeting, four citizens appeared and spoke in favor of the request, noting the nursery school and church at the corner creating considerable congestion at the intersection during peak times and possible confusion of motorists on 7^th Street since there is a MULTI-WAY at the first intersection both east and west of Alabama Street.  The Traffic Safety Commission expressed concern about installing traffic control devices that do not meet the minimum criteria provided in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and the unintended consequences that can be created; and noted that traffic calming devices do a much better job of slowing traffic. A motion to recommend construction of traffic calming devices on Alabama Street at 7^th Street carried unanimously, 9-0.

Action Request

It is recommended that the City Commission concur with the recommendation of the Traffic Safety Commission, if appropriate.

There is currently a backlog of traffic calming devices approved and do not have funding identified