pages: TransportationCommission/2020-11-18.pdf, 4
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TransportationCommission | 2020-11-18 | 4 | Commissioner Hans asked what the estimated construction period is. Mr. Schuster stated that he estimates six to eight months, depending on weather, time of year and other changes. Chair Soules stated that she has heard that traffic circles can be problematic for the visually impaired and wanted to clarifications on the accommodations. She questions whether the lower operations and maintenance costs include the landscaping maintenance and irrigation systems. Mr. Schuster responded that accessibility measures are included for people with visual impairments, including tactile domes, refuges within the splitter islands, and shorter, high visibility crossings. He agreed that landscaping and irrigation would include operations and maintenance costs but less than signals. Landscape costs would be mitigated with carefully selected native plants and water efficient irrigation design. but any plants will still have an establishment period when watering is needed of up to the first three years. Staff Wikstrom added that while there are long term costs of roundabouts, the traffic signals have many more regular maintenance and replacement costs, like traffic signal bulbs. Commissioner Weitze asked why we are keeping some of the all-way stop intersections given the benefits of roundabouts. Staff Payne and Mr. Schuster responded that the roundabouts take up more space, so the City cannot install them in more constrained locations such as Fifth Street, Webster Street and Eighth Street. The City is considering one at Fourth Street but the budget needs to be considered. Commissioner Yuen asked what the planned treatment of trees is along the corridor, about the school coordination and concerns and about the selection of intersections for pedestrian-activated beacons. Mr. Schuster responded on the trees that it is a priority to save and protect the existing trees. Contractors will be required to protect the trees to avoid damage. The team is in the middle of a tree study, which is an inventory of every tree, including species, condition and protection needed. Limited tree removal is anticipated, and primarily will be on the western end of the project because of the cycle track. The project will replace these trees, it is anticipated to have a net gain of trees in the corridor. Staff Payne responded about the school interactions, which have been positive with the schools, district and principals. For Maya Lin School, students cross at Ninth Street, so the project will install a flashing beacon at this intersection. At Paden, the principal participated in a bike tour of the project area, and is in favor of the concept. Originally, the project had included a flashing beacon in front of the school, but the team believes it is safer for kids to cross at the signalized intersections at Fourth Street and Fifth Street. For Encinal School, the team was concerned about a roundabout in front of the high school, but found examples of successful roundabouts in similar locations. Also, the west end has charter schools and ASTI whose students may use these new facilities. Transportation Commission Meeting Minutes - November 18, 2020 4 | TransportationCommission/2020-11-18.pdf |