pages: CityCouncil/2021-04-20.pdf, 18
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CityCouncil | 2021-04-20 | 18 | support for a flashing, talking sign; questioned safety precautions in place for the project: Katie Phan, Alameda. *** Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called a recess at 9:47 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 10:09 p.m. *** Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how people with disabilities will safely cross and navigate the roundabout and whether any consultation was conducted. The Senior Transportation Coordinator responded staff and consultants have met with several members of the blind community who requested a tactile map of the roundabouts be created; a map was created for the roundabout at Third Street; staff created seven hard copies, three sets are at each Alameda Library and can be checked out. Stefan Schuster, CDM Smith, stated that his team reached out to and met with the blind community and developed tactile maps; noted as designs are finalized, more specific and accurate models of the roundabouts will be created; stated the safety benefits are similar; displayed a Power Point presentation slide; stated the slide illustrates design component considerations for the blind and visually impaired; the roundabouts have shorter crossings and provide a center refuge; there is a traffic calming element to the roundabouts with significantly lower vehicle speeds; the landscape and buffer areas keep pedestrians and cyclists separated from traffic lanes; other physical elements, such as fencing, may be used; tactile domes and guide strips would be used to help signal the transition to a travel lane; the use of flashing and auditory signals will help guide people across certain legs of intersections and will also warn motorists about pedestrians; considerations will be made on a case by case basis; all features will not be on every leg of the roundabout; motorists may become de-sensitized to too many flashing beacons; there is no guarantee of a safe crossing at any intersection; overall roundabouts benefit all users and are a safer option than a signalized intersection. Erin Ferguson, Kittelson & Associates, stated her firm has been involved with National research for visually impaired and disabled users; the research has found consistency with the comments provided by Mr. Schuster related to design; it is important to provide the protected refuge island; the crosswalks are setback about one car length from the circulatory roadway; giving more space allows visually impaired users the ability to hear better to the left; flashing beacons activated by push buttons can also be implemented. Councilmember Knox White stated that he appreciates the additional outreach performed due to concerns being raised; inquired whether the roundabout as-deigned would be safer than the current situation. Mr. Schuster responded in the affirmative; stated that he has looked at several variations for Sherman Street; the design closing Sherman Street provides much greater flexibility in the roundabout design, which will truly calm traffic. Councilmember Knox White stated that he anticipates the need to have an option to keep Sherman Street open; expressed support for a motion supporting approval of all four roundabouts, with a condition that an option to keep Sherman Street open return for consideration; stated keeping Sherman Street open is a less safe option; it is important to realize that up until Marina Village was built, Atlantic Avenue was similar to other streets; streets Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 13 April 20, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-04-20.pdf |