AgdaPkt 2014-08-25 Closed and Joint with SA and Planning Amended

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7.3.A. - Page 2 The subject intersection meets the criteria set forth in the California Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices for the installation of stop signs, due to the traffic volumes, the proximity to schools and the number of school-age pedestrian crossings at the intersection. A traffic and speed census near the intersection indicates that Redwood Avenue carries about 2,102 vehicles eastbound and 2,556 vehicles westbound per day. A similar study conducted on Elwood Street found that the southbound approach carries about 700 vehicles per day. The eighty-fifth percentile speed (the speed which 85% of drivers do not exceed) on James Avenue was approximately 30 miles per hour. On Elwood Street, the eighty-fifth percentile speed is approximately 29mph in the southbound direction. The data indicate that there are elevated speeds on both James Avenue and Elwood Street. The initial examination of police collision records for the intersection found that there have been 7 reported collisions at or near this intersection in last 10 years through 2011 . The largest number of collisions occurred in 2003, with three. While not all of the collisions are correctable, the goal of the stop sign installation would be make the intersection safer. The proposed stop signs will also increase pedestrian safety and convenience at this intersection. McKinley School is located adjacent to the intersection of James Avenue and Elwood Street and has a school exit that opens onto this intersection. The intersection is very heavily used by school-age pedestrians. During the hour following afternoon dismissal there are more than 150 pedestrian crossings. A notice was mailed to the residents near the intersection, informing them of the City's recommendation to install stop signs at the intersection of James Avenue and Elwood Street. No concerns or negative feedback was received following this notice to the residents. Stop sign installations are considered permanent. Once installed, stop signs should not be removed because of the potential for confusion. The primary negative impacts associated with the proposed installation include increased vehicle braking and accelerating, as well as potentially increased travel times. ALTERNATIVES Council may choose to not approve the installation of the proposed stop signs, and direct staff to investigate other options to address community concerns.