AgdaPkt 2002-11-18 - Laserfiche WebLink

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number of lanes at the intersections on either end of the segment will remain unchanged; and therefore, the level of service at the traffic signals will not be affected. The new lane and crosswalk configuration will increase pedestrian safety by: 1. reducing the number of travel lanes to be crossed; 2. reducing the crossing distance, and hence the amount of time a pedestrian is in the vehicular traveled way; 3. allowing curb "bulb-outs" to be painted at the crosswalk to help emphasize pedestrian crossing areas, and 4. by slowing down traffic with the increased ~traffic friction" that will result from the narrower lanes and higher vehicle per lane density on the segment. When the new high-visibility "ladder-style" crosswalk is installed, the existing concrete "bomanite" crosswalk and the pedestrian signal will be removed. Citizens have expressed concerns that the signal is not responsive enough to pedestrians and the wait for a walk signal is too long. The long wait is due to the fact that the pedestrian signal is controlled by the same controller as the Middlefield/Main and Middlefield/Maple traffic signals, which all operate as a s!ngle system. The new crosswalk will not be signal controlled, and will function as a typical uncontrolled crosswalk. improvements will be installed on a "trial basis" using less permanent painted markings and lane lines. The signal equipment that will be removed will be stored at the City's Municipal Services Center (1400 Broadway), enabling us to easily reinstall the signal equipment, if necessary. Since these improvements are being made on a "trial basis," modifications to improve safety or traffic handling can be made quickly and easily to address any issues or problems. If the new configuration is successful in enhancing pedestrian use and safety, and it is supported by the community, the markings can be reapplied using more permanent thermoplastic paint, and some of the painted features can be constructed as "hardscape" improvements. As a future crosswalk improvement, a pedestrian-activated in-pavement flashing warning light system may be installed at this location at a later date. In addition to the improvements surrounding the mid-block crosswalk, the proposed plan includes installation of a new crosswalk warning sign and a painted "bulb-out" on the south-west corner of the Jefferson Avenue/Middlefield Road intersection to improve the safety of the crosswalk at that location. Staff is also investigating potential construction of a new concrete path to provide a more direct pedestrian connection between the area in front of the Library and the City Employee/Library parking lot.