HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packet - TSP - 2006.08.10TRAFFIC, SAFETY AND PARKING COMMISSION AGENDA
CITY HALL, 501 PRIMROSE ROAD, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7:00 P.M.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 10, 2006
AGENDA SUGGESTED
ACTION
1.CALL TO ORDER 7:00 p.m.
2.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE T O THE FLAG
3.ROLL CALL
4.CURRENT BUSINESS
4.1 ACTION ITEMS
4.1.1 Minutes for March 9 and July 13, 2006 Approve.
4.2 DISCUSSION ITEMS
4.2.1 Occidental Avenue/Howard Avenue - Request for
an additional stop sig n at the existing 3-way
intersection.
Discuss and review staff
report.
4.2.2 Broadway/Paloma Avenue - Pedestrian Saf ety
Measures at crosswalk
Discuss and review staff
report.
5.ACKNOW LEDGMENT OF NEW ITEMS Acknowledge request and
accept testimony.
6.FROM THE FLOOR Acknowledge request and
accept testimony.
7.INFORMATION ITEMS
7.1 Bicycle Safety Issues in Burlingame - Future sub-committee
meetings and project considerations.
Verbal report by sub-
committee members.
7.2 From Council to Commission/Staff Acknowledge and discuss
or place on future agenda.
7.3 From Staff to Commission
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7.3.1 Traffic Engineer’s Report
7.3.1.1 Peninsula Avenue/US101 Overpass Status
Report
Verbal update only.
7.3.1.2 Broadway/US101 Overpass Status Report Verbal update only.
7.3.2 Traffic Sergeant’s Report Verbal update only.
7.3.3 Other City Staff Reports
7.4 From Commission to Staf f
7.4.1 Commission Chairperson’s Report Chair report and update
on various issues.
7.4.2 Commissioner/Sub-com mittee Reports Members report and
update on various sub-
committee issues.
7.4.2 Reports of citizen complaints or requests Direction to staff.
7.5 Comments and communication Direction to staff.
7.6 Next Regular Meeting: September 14, 2006 Announcement of
expected absences.
8.INACTIVE OR PENDING ITEMS
8.1 Burlingame Avenue/Clarendon Avenue - Request for stop
signs.
Pending warrant study in
Fall.
9 AGENDUM FOR NEXT MEETING - September 14, 2006
10 ADJOURNMENT
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The City of Burlingame
CITY HALL - 501 PRIMROSE ROAD
CALIFORN!{ 9401G3997
www.budingame.org
TRAFFIC, SAFETY AND PARKING COMMISSION
Meeting Minutes - Unapproved
Thursday - July 13, 2006
Commissioners Present:Eugene Condon, Chair
Victor James, Vice-Chair
Michael Bohnert
Stephen Warden
Dan Conway
Staff Present:Augustine Chou, Traffic Engineer, Public Works
Police Chief Jack Van Etten
Commander Mike Matteucci, Police Department
Traffic Officer Robert Bol!
Visitors: Councilman Russ Cohen
Wade Bettesworth, Director Sales and Marketing Red Flex Traffic
Systems
Pat Giomi, 1445 Balboa Avenue
Linda Abbey, 1415 Adeline Drive
Olen Creech, 1833 Castenada Drive
John Kevranian, 1241 Broadway Avenue
Nora Kevranian, 1241 Broadway Avenue
Barbara Zukowski, 1108 Capuchino Avenue
Tom Koros,2225 Summit Drive
Farris Horak, 1332 Edgehill Drive
Rudy Horak, 1332 Edgehil! Drive
AnnaMarie Daniels, 515 Howard Avenue
Norm Utigard, 1252 Paloma Avenue
Basim Azar,245 California Drive
Jack Casey,2525 Poppy Drive
Dr. Andrew Soss, 1159 Broadway
Gary Doss,214 California Drive
Reiner Nissen, 721 Laurel
Car! and Debbie deQuant, 1232 Paloma Avenue
Schehe rezade B h a rab ia n le u, 220 Calit orn ia Drive
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July 3, 2006 Minutes
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1 CALL TO ORDER
7:00 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
5 of 5 Commissioners present
CURRENT BUSINESS
4.1 ACTION ITEMS
4.1.1 Approval of minutes June 8 meeting
Motion to approve June 8 Meeting minutes
M/S/C: Warden, James; 5/0/0.
Chair Condon asked his fellow Commissioners if there were any objections to moving
item 7.3.2.1 (Red Light Camera Enforcement Program Presentation) up as the first item
of business.
7 .3.2 T ratfic Sergeant's Report
Police Chief Jack Van Etten explained the Red Light Enforcement
Program priorities are accident avoidance, increasing public, safety
and traffic calming. Any monies generated will be used to offset
administrative costs for this program. Chief Van Etten requested that
if the Traffic Commission thought this was a good program for the
community, that a staff report be submitted to the City Council for
their consideration.
Chief Van Etten then introduced Wade Bettesworth, Director of
Sales and Marketing for Red Flex Traffic Systems, who gave a
presentation for their Red Light Enforcement product.
Mr. Bettesworth went through the company profile, nationwide
installations, public education program, nation-wide installations,
how the process of photographing and timing at each intersection
installation worked, the impact of the program through traffic
statistics, and city renewals.
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July 3, 2006 Minutes
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7.3.2.1 Red Light Enforcement Program Presentation
Mr. Bettesworth demonstrated the online tracking by police officers
for citations using the web-based program and the process for
citation issuance through Red Flex.
Chair Condon stated that since this was just a staff presentation,
that comments and discussions from the floor could be done at the
City Council meeting, where the matter would be presented in a staff
report to Council.
Chair Condon asked who would be viewing the videos. Police Chief
Van Etten explained that if this matter went to City Council and was
approved by Council and implemented, that one of the Traffic staff
would work on the videos part{ime and attending Traffic hearings.
Depending on how the Program was running, a part{ime person
might need to be hired.
Commissioner James asked if warrant studies would be helpful in
determining the location of installations. Mr. Bettesworth explained
this had been done and they had determined and studied the top tier
(four) intersections using number of collisions and injuries.
Commissioner Conway asked how the Program would be funded by
the City. Mr. Bettesworth went through the fee structure stressing
that the City would not pay out in any one month more than they
generated in violation revenue.
Commissioner Warden asked about the time involved for video tape
review in the City of San Mateo where this Program is in use. Mr.
Bettesworth explained it took about 10-15 seconds to view the tape
of each incident which would equate to approximately five hours per
week depending on the number of violations.
Commissioner Bohnert asked what the top tier intersections were.
Police Commander Mike Matteucci explained the four (top tier)
intersections studied for installation were: Chapin/El Camino,
Broadway/El Camino (northbound), Trousdale/El Camino, and
Broadway/Rollins Road.
Commissioner Warden commented with four systems this would
take staff about 1-1 .5 hours per day with Monday being the busiest.
Commissioner Warden commented that three of the four
intersections studied for installations are Caltrans intersections and
where did the revenue have to be sent since these are not Ci$
owned. Chief Van Etten explained that the revenue goes only to the
City and not to Caltrans. Commissioner Warden asked if the
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July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page 3 of l3
brightness of the flash units used at night in the program would be a
distraction to drivers. Mr. Bettesworth assured him that it would not.
Commissioner Warden stated that currently Burlingame out-sources
the citation process to a company in Redwood City, and that
Burlingame did not see a great deal of revenue as a result. Mr.
Bettesworth explained the monthly flat fee program charge for
services provided by Red Flex and any revenue generated over and
above this amount would go to the City.
Commissioner Conway asked about the privacy issue. Mr.
Bettesworth stated they only kept images of violators for the City to
view, no other images are kept only for six months for adjudication
purposes.
Chief Van Etten then made a few closing c,omments. He stated that
other companies were considered and requested that staff bring this
matter to City Council. Commissioner Condon supports the project
and would recommend this be brought to City Council.
4.2 Discussion ltems
4.2.1 California Drive/Highland Avenue Crosswalk enhancement or removal
Traffic Engineer Chou presented an aerial overhead and referred to two
options for considerations in the staff report.
The crosswalk to be removed if there was little or no traffic; or
The crosswalk to remain but with additional safety enhancements.
Mr. Chou concluded by saying that the staff recommendation was for the
Commission to make a determination through public input.
Gary Doss, 214 California Drive, spoke in support of keeping this
crosswalk. He stated that the new train station would bring additional
people to this area. He suggested a minimal enhancement would be well
placed Yield signs.
Basim Azar, 245 California Drive, spoke in support of keeping and
enhancing the crosswalk. He spoke about the pedestrian trafric to and from
the train station and that people will not use the controlled crosswalks at
either end of the street. He also offered pages of signatures of residents in
favor of keeping and the crosswalk.
Scheherazade Bharabianleu, 220 Calitornia Drive, spoke in favor of
keeping and enhancing the crosswalk. She stated she doesn't see Traffic
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TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page 4 of l3
Officers on California Drive to monitor the quick moving traffic. She would
like to see enhancements to the crosswalk as well as signs posted to
reduce the driving speed.
Pat Giorni, 1445 Balboa, spoke in favor of keeping the crosswalk. She
spoke about the hazard to bike-riders around the island by Highland and
that the crosswalk was a reminder to drivers to slow down for pedestrians,
which helped the safety issue for bike-riders.
Jack Casey, 241-243 California Drive, spoke in favor of keeping and
enhancing the crosswalk. He commented on the high speeds along
Califomia Drive and suggested a stop sign.
AnnaMarie Daniels, 515 Howard, spoke in favor of keeping and enhancing
the crosswalk. She stated the distance between the two signals at either
end of the street was very long. The crosswalk in the middle was
necessary. Enhancements like the ones in San Bruno seemed very
effective. She also asked to add some knockdown delineators.
Olen Creech, 1833 Castenada Way spoke in favor of keeping and
enhancing the crosswalk. He stated that he was a senior citizen and using
the other crosswalks at the end of each street was too far for him to go.
Commissioner Bohnert spoke in strong support of keeping and enhancing
the crosswalk. He stated drivers were looking through this crosswalk to the
signals on either side, and were paying more attention to those. He felt
attention needed to be brought back to this crosswalk with strong
enhancements.
Commissioner Warden spoke in favor of keeping and enhancing the
crosswalk. He also supported knockdown delineators. Commissioner
James agreed with him.
Commissioner Conway said he was also in favor of keeping and enhancing
the crosswalk. He spoke to the thoroughness of Traffic Commissioner
Chou's traffic study and his unbiased information showing liabilities and
benefits of either option. Commissioner James added that Traffic
Engineefs Chou's report was balanced.
Motion: To move to an Action item
M/S/C: James, Conway; 5/0/0.
Motion: To keep the mid-block crosswalk across California Drive, near
Highland; and enhance with knockdown delineators, paint and reflector
buttons.
TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
July 3, 2006 Minutes
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M/S/C: Warden, Conway; 5/0/0.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF NEW ITEMS
5.1 Burlingame Avenue/Clarendon Avenue - Request for stop signs.
Traffic Engineer Chou stated the City received a request to consider making this
intersection 4-way stop. He said that the staff would hold off doing any stop sign
warant studies in the summer because of differences in traffic patterns due to
summer vacations, etc. He said that when the City receives similar requests in the
future, that they be acknowledged, and that the studies be done in the fall when the
data studies would be more accurate.
Traffic Engineer Chou stated this non-standard 3-way intersection is a very
confusing intersection. He would propose traffic warrant studies in the fall based on
the above statements regarding differences in traffic counts for different seasons.
Commissioner Conway asked if there was a conflict of interest and if he could
participate in the discussion. Traffic Engineer Chou stated that, according the City
attorney, Commissioner Conway could participate as long as there was no financial
gain involved.
6. FROM THE FLOOR
Before opening the floor for public comment, Chair Condon stated that the Broadway
traffic/stop sign issues was a report to the Commission, from a sub-commiftee.
However, he encouraged speakers to step forward and each take three minutes to
comment on the issue at this time if they wanted.
Fanis Horak, 1332 Edgehill, stated that Broadway was not safe and a stop sign at
Broadway and Paloma to stop the traffic for pedestrians was needed. She asked that the
Commission make a motion for temporary stop signs.
Rudy Horak, 1332 Edgehill, stated that Broadway was a "killing machine'. He asked the
Commission to make a motion for a temporary stop sign for 90 days to begin August 1.
Tom Koros, 2225 Summit Drive, talked about the new businesses on Broadway bringing
an influx in pedestrian traffic and encouraged looking at the problem.
Dr. Andrew Soss, 1159 Broadway, commented on an incident where he prevented a
three year old girl from being hit on Broadway. He asked for stop signs on Broadway at
the Walgreen's and Paloma crosswalk.
TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
Juiy 3, 2006 Minutes
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5.2 Occidental Avenue/Howard Avenue - Request for an additional stop sign at the
existing 3-way intersection.
Norman Utigard, 1252 Paloma Avenue, agreed that crossing at Broadway and Paloma
could be hazardous, but felt that putting two stop signs would cause massive traffic jams
especially getting on and off Highway 101 at Broadway.
Pat Giomi, 1445 Balboa, wanted to know if there was going to be public involvement with
the Bicycle Committee and the Planning Commission, as monies are available to
municipalities for bicycle and pedestrian projects (Metropolitan Transit Authority). She
asked that the Bicycle Committee meetings be opened to the public for participation as
there are funds to be had and she wouldn't want to see Burlingame lose out because it
did not have a strong Public and City Oriented BPAC (Bicycle Pedestrian Advisory
Board).
John Kevranian, 1241 Broadway, spoke in support of stops signs on Broadway. He
asked that a motion be made for temporary stop signs. He stated that he spoke to the
City Attorney and a motion could be made tonight by the Commission to have a
temporary stop sign. He asked for a show of hands from the audience on who was in
favor of temporary stop signs. (lt was unanimous amongst those in the visitor section).
Barbara Sukowsky, 1 108 Broadway, spoke in support of 90 day temporary stop signs on
Broadway. She spoke of her experience crossing Broadway and asked for the
Commission to vote for one.
Chair Condon explained that it is his understanding, that no motion could be made at
this time regarding temporary stop signs on Broadway as this item was not on the
agenda as a discussion item but an update from the sub-committee. Therefore, no
motion was expected.
7. INFORMATION ITEMS
7.1 Bicycle Safety lssues in Burlingame - Future sub-committee meetings and project
considerations.
Traffic Engineer Chou stated that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Safety
Committee would be open to the public to discuss issues. He added that the sub-
committee had met first to outline their responsibilities with respect to another
subcommittee that might be established by Council later. The September TSPC
meeting would have agenda items that would be open to the public for discussion
about pedestrian and bicycle issues.
Chair Condon stated the sub-commiftee was working to identifo projects that would
qualifo for funding.
Traffic Engineer Chou stated they there were six potential designs to present at the
public meetings. He also said that these public meetings were a good place to see
if there were other projects that might the public might want added.
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Jury 3, 2006 Minutes
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7.2 From Council to Commission/Staff
None
7.3 From Staff to Commission
7.3.1 Tratfic Enginee/s Report
7.3.1.1 Peninsula Ave/101 Overpass Status Report
Chair Condon asked if they had any drawings. Traffic Engineer Chou
stated the City of San Mateo is responsible for the basic design for the
overpass and work with Cal Trans. The City of Burlingame and the
City of San Mateo are in contract agreement to hire a traffic consultant
to do some studies and also focus on some of Burlingame's interests.
Design-wise the ball is in San Mateo's court. They will decide what
interchange designs they want. Based on the February San Mateo
Public hearing, Cal Trans and TA are saying if there is not public
support for this project, that they are not spending any additional staff
time on this project. San Mateo needs to figure out if they want this or
not. There is work being done now on the overpass in preparation for
when the City of San Mateo decides that they want the full
interchange. The Auxiliary Lane Project is going regardless. San
Mateo does not want to have to come back in 5-10 years and tear out
portions because the Peninsula lnterchange is going. They want to
build it ready to go until the City decides to move fonrvard.
7.3.1.2 Broadway/US 101 Overpass Status Report
Traffic Engineer Chou stated that this project was with the San Mateo
County Transportation Authority - Shategic Planning and Finances.
Plans and specifications were ready to go and they were in the
process of planning how the money would be allocated.
7 .3.1.2 Radar Speed Zones - Analysis
Traffic Engineer Chou explained that after an in{epth review of all the
accident reports, staff determined that the speed limits on California
Drive, Rollins Road, and Airport Boulevard should remain at 35 mph.
He also reported that California Drive was re-surveyed in order to
include a new survey segment. He explained that past surveys
showed two segments for California Drive - Murchison to Burlingame,
and Burlingame to Peninsula. Mr. Chou said that there was significant
enough differences within the segment from Murchison to Burlingame
that it should be broken into two segments - Murchison to Broadway,
and Broadway to Burlingame. He felt that the remaining segment to
Peninsula was valid. Trafflc Engineer Chou said that since there
TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page 8 of 13
would be no changes to the speed limit, no action other than a report
to Council was necessary.
7.3.2 Traffic Sergeant's Report
(See page 2)
7.3.2.1 This presentation was done as the first item of business
7.3.3 Other City Staff Reports
None.
7.4 From Commission to Staff
7.4.1 Commission Chairperson's Report
Chair Condon re-iterated the important issues before the Commission and
sub-committees:o Railway Safety Study/Fencing with CaUtrain
Broadway Pedestrian Traffic Safety Projecta
7.4.1.1 Caltrain Railroad Corridor Safety
Commissioner Conway discussed the activity of this sub-committee
which he sits on. They met to discuss this ongoing study, analysis
and future communications strategy with Caltrain regarding the
issues that were a result of last month's public hearing. He stated
he was not ready to discuss their findings at this time. They are
going forward and looking at:
o what might be involved with fencing. communicating internally with the decision-makers and City
Council as to what their options are and next steps to
CalTrains
Chair Condon added that this sub-committee was also looking into
available funding within the State system so that when this was
presented to Council, they would have all the tools to make
decisions to make the citizens safe.
Traffic Engineer Chou stated that one of the things that Sam
Trans/Caltrain did discuss at the May 'l 1 Public Meeting was that
they would look into, and evaluate, the issue of bus stops and bus
routes. He wanted the Commission to know they did contact staff to
TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page 9 of 13
Carolan south of Oak Grove
Carolan at Morrell
Carolan south of Cadillac Way
Mr. Chou said that ifthese proposed stops are agreed upon, then
Pedestrian pads would be poured for the stops. Mr. Chou said that
Samtrans was asking if the Cig would consider a mid-block
crosswalk at the location on Carolan south of Cadillac.
Chair Condon was concerned that the problem might be moved from
California Drive to Carolan. Commissioner Warden agreed that the
same problem existed for those people getting off buses, because
they would have to cross Carolan. He stated he had been very
specific in the special May 11 meeting that if they took the bus route
down Oak Grove, make the stop at Washington school and then
make the entire route run back northbound on Carolan, every stop
would be on the east side of Carolan and no one would have to
cross Carolan Avenue at the time the high schools were letting out.
He asked that the City push Caltrain/Samtrans to look at this
alternative by next month.
Chair Condon asked Traffic Engineer Chou if Caltrain/Samtrans
responded back regarding any of their steps besides the bus stop.
Mr. Chou stated that they had not as of yet and that he was waiting
on the fencing issue.
7.4.2.1 Broadway/Paloma Avenue Traffic Safety Measures
Commissioner Warden reported that he and Commissioner Bohnert
met several weeks ago with four of the Broadway merchants (John
Kevranian, Ross Bruce, Dave Armanino and Gerald Weisl). They
agreed that the problem was pedestrian safety, not speed. He said
they also discussed the options for measures that needed to be
addressed. A recommendation would be made to the Commission,
via a staff report, next month. He added that staff should take a look
at temporary stop signs at Paloma and Broadway and come back to
the Commission with several added points:
The situation would be heavily monitored until the
Commission received Traffic Engineer Chou's report on
possible traffic back-ups on Broadway to El Camino or on
Broadway to California Drive.
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coordinate reJocation of bus stops along Carolan. Three new stops
were planned along Carolan.
TRAFFIC, SAFETY & PARKING COMMISSION
July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page l0 ol l3
What impact temporary stops might have on surrounding
neighborhoods.
The sub-committee will be re-assembled to monitor what the
effects might be with traffic and pedestrians trying to cross.
The merchants will monitor this as part of the sub-committee.
The sub-committee should continue to meet over the next 60-
90 days and look into a signal light.
lnvestigate the possibility of using Red light camera
enforcement program monies from fines to partially fund a
signal light at this location.
Chair Condon requested asked the sub-committee to look into
knockdown delineators before stop signs and, that a traffic count
was needed for Lincoln and Carmelita. There was traffic congestion
already in surrounding neighborhoods and back up from the stop
sign need to be considered. Chair Condon asked the Traffic
Engineer Chou to include information in his staff report for
knockdown delineators, traffic signals, and traffic flow on
surrounding street. He also expressed concem that many
surrounding residents might be impacted and it would be best to
begin with a study and staff report rather than just installing
temporary stop signs.
Traffic Engineer Chou said there was not. He added that that if
temporary stop signs were put installed now, traffic studies could not
be done until the Fall. He cautioned that temporary stop signs either
become permanent or are taken out. He wanted to know if the
merchants wanted the temporary stop signs as a way of getting
permanent signs or as a way to look at what we have
Commissioner James asked if something could be done
immediately in the shortterm to control the traffic.
Commissioner James asked the sub-commiftee members what the
feeling was of the merchants regarding crosswalk enhancements.
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Commissioner Bohnert stated that he was in agreement with the
sub-committee's recommendation of a 60-90 day temporary stop
sign and getting feedback from the merchants and residents.
Commissioner Warden asked Traffic Engineer Chou if there was a
way to tell what would happen to traffic if the stop sign were put in
without actually installing them.
Commissioner Bohnert stated they met as a sub-committee of
laymen and thought a temporary stop sign would be a good idea.
Enhancements were not discussed as they did not have the input of
the civil engineer, nor the input of the other people affected
regarding enhancement.
Commissioner James stated that the problem was not an
uncontrolled intersection which was the purpose of a stop sign. He
felt enhancements would better address the issue rather than stop
signs. Chair Condon stated that knockdown delineators and
enhancements could be done immediately. Commissioner James
concurred that the knockdown delineators would not have the
negative impact that the stop sign would have, and this could be
done now.
Commissioner Conway agreed that the delineators would be a good
stop-gap measure. He said that he would like to see delineators put
in immediately, while the sub-committee continued to review other
measures and observe the traffic flow.
Commissioner Warden wanted to clarifu that tonight was not the
night to vote for putting in temporary stop signs, but it was the
appropriate time for voting to put in delineators. He wanted to come
back next month, with a staff report on all the pros and cons of the
options discussed. He felt the delineators could go in now, with the
sub-committee continuing to monitor traffic and discussing stop
signs/stop lights.
Chair Condon summarized that they had consensus that something
could be done now.
Commissioner Warden asked that delineator installation be brought
to an action item. Commissioner James asked that the continued
study and monitoring by the sub-committee be done in the form of a
staff report for a later time.
Chair Condon summarized that the stop sign issue was still open,
that there have been no ayes or nays towards the original question
of a stop sign within the Commission.
Motion To make this an Action ltem.
M/S/C: Warden, Conway; 5/0/0.
Motion: To install knockdown delineators and bots dots at Paloma
and Broadway; and for Traffic Engineer Chou to bring other options
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July 3, 2006 Minutes
Page 12 of 13
before the Commission (including stop signs/stop lights) and for the
sub-committee to continue monitoring the situation.
M/S/C: Warden, James; 5/0/0.
7 .4.3 Reports of Citizen Complaints or Requests
7.5 Comments and Communications
None.
7 .6 Next Regular Meeting - August 10
All Commissioners are expected to be in attendance.
8. lnactive or Pending ltems
None.
9. Agendum for Next Meeting - August 10
Item 5.2 Occidental Avenue/Howard Avenue 3-way stops
Item 7.4.2.1 Broadway/Paloma Pedestrian Safety Measures
10. ADJOURNMENT
9:57 PM.
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July 3, 2006 Minutes
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Commissioner Warden asked about the status of the No Over Night parking
signs on the 700 block of California. Traffic Commissioner Chou stated he
needed to re-check work order status.
BURLINGAME
'r@
Meeting
Date: Auqust 10. 2006
TO:
DATE:
FROM:
SUBJECT
STAFF REPORT
SUBMITTED BY
Traffic, Safety and Parking Commission
August 7,2006
Augustine Chou, Traffic Engineer
Agenda ltem 4.2.1
OccidentalAvenue/Howard Avenue - 3-Way Stop Signs
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the installation of an additional stop sign at the Occidental
Avenue/Howard Avenue intersection in order to make this location a standard 3-way controlled stop.
DISCUSSION: The intersection of Occidental Avenue and Howard Avenue is a 3-way intersection with
only 2-way stop control. The existing stop signs are posted in a non-standard configuration, where the
approach from westbound Howard is controlled and the northbound approach of Occidental is also
controlled. However, the southbound OccidentalAvenue approach has no stop sign control.
At typical 3-way approaches where stop signs are used, there are two methods of installation. The first
method is to install a single stop sign for the non-through, intersecting street. ln this case, it would be
Howard Avenue. The through-street (Occidental Avenue) would not be controlled. ln the second
method of installation, all approaches are controlled. ln both these applications, it ensures that all
drivers can make the reasonable assumption that either the intersecting street, or all the intersecting
streets must stop.
The current configuration at this intersection is considered non-standard, and is confusing to unfamiliar
drivers. The continued use of this configuration is not recommended. The options available to the
Commission for consideration are to either make this intersection into a standard 3-way stop, or remove
the northbound stop at Occidental and make this location a single-stop intersection.
A 3-way stop would make for a commonly understood, controlled intersection. However, the installation
of a third stop on southbound Occidental will mean that there would be two consecutive stops at
adjacent intersections; one at Howard, and the other at Ralston. This may result in drivers ignoring the
second stop sign, depending on direction of travel because they may perceive it to be redundant and
annoying.
The removal of the stop sign on Occidental would also make for more commonly understood intersection
control. But, the removal could meet with residential resistance over the perception that vehicle speeds
would increase.
Staff believes that the initial installation of the single stop for northbound Occidental Avenue was to
address concerns that traffic entering from Howard had difficulty merging onto OccidentalAvenue. With
this in mind, staff would recommend considering installation of an additional stop sign for southbound
Occidental to make this intersection a standard 3-way stop sign.
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S:\A Public Works Directory\TsP Commission\Staff Reports9006\08-10-06 Occ.idsntal-Howard 3-way Stops.doc
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The CiA of Burlingome
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Tel:(650) 558-7230
Fax:(650) 685-9310
CITY HALL - 501 PRIMROSE ROAD CORPORATION YARD
Tel:(650) 558-7670BURLINGAME, CALIFORNIA 9401 0.3997
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND PARKING COMMISSION MEETING
7:00 p.m., Thursday, August {0, 2006
City Hall, Council Chambers, 501 Primrose Road
The Traffic Safety and Parking Commission will be evaluating a request for an
additional stop sign at the intersection of Howard Avenue and OccidentalAvenue.
Such an installation would change the intersection from a non-standard 2-way stop
to a standard 3-way stop. This item will be discussed during the next Traffic
Commission meeting on Thursday, August 10, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. in Burlingame
City Hall, 501 Primrose Road, Council Chambers.
Your attendance is encouraged as the Commission welcomes residential input on
this important issue. lf you are unable to attend this meeting, you may submityour
written comments by postal mail to Traffic. Safety and Parking Commission, 501
Primrose Road. Burlingame, CA 94010 or submit an email message to Mr.
Augustine Chou , the Burlingame Traffic Engineer, at achou@burlingame.org. All
written comments will be forwarded to the Commission.
lf you have any questions or need additional information about this notice, please
call 650-558-7230.
3.WAY STOP SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF
HOWARD AVENUE & OCCIDENTAL AVENUE
LIC IVEETINGNOTICEPU
S:\A Public Works Directory\TsP Commission\R€spons6 & Notification Letters to Requ€sts\Public Notic€ - 8-10-06 Howard-Occidsntal 3-way Stop.wpd
Page I of I
PW/ENG-Chou, Augustine
From: PW/ENG-Chou,Augustine
Sent: Monday, August 07, 2006 10:52 AM
To: 'dbowlus4@comcast.net'
Subject: RE: 3-Way stop signs at Howard & OccidentalAvenues
Dear Douglas and Sandra Bowlus,
Thank you for our comments on the Occidental/Howard stop sign issue. l'm sorry to hear that you cannot make the upcoming
Traffic, Safety and Parking Commission meeting, but I will make sure that the Commission receives a copy of your comments.
Best Regards,
AucusrrNe Cnou -Tnlrplc ENclruEeR
PUBLIC WoRKS.ENGINEERING DIvIstoN
CrrY oF BuRr-lNclliae
50I PRIMRoSE RoAD
(650) 55A-7236
-----Orig inal Message----
From: dbowlus4@comcast.net Imailto:dbowlus4@comcast.net]
Sent: Monday, August 07,2006 10:47 AM
To: PW/ENG-Chou, Augustine
Subject: 3-Way stop signs at Howard & Occidental Avenues
Dear Mr. Chou,
Due to a scheduling conflict, my wife and I are unable to attend the Traffic Commission meeting on August 10,
2006.
However, we do want to be on record as supporting a third stop sign at this intersection.
The present configuration is confusing to southbound Occidental Avenue drivers.
Additionally it may reduce the speeding issue on southbound Occidental south of Howard Avenue.
Thank you for your consideration.
Douglas & Sandra Bowlus
136 Occidental Avenue
Burlingame, CA
6501s79-4492
81712006
RLI
Meeting
Date: Auqust 10. 2006
STAFF REPORT
Traffic, Safety and Parking Commission
August 7,2006
Augustine Chou, Traffic Engineer
Agenda ltem 4.2.2
SUBMITTED
TO:
DATE:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Broadway/Paloma Avenue - Pedestrian Safety Measures at Crosswalk
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Commission continue fine-tuning the crosswalk
enhancements at Broadway and Paloma Avenue, and urge the City to consider the feasibility of a traffic
signal as a possible long-term solution. Staff also recommends that the City examine alternative funding
sources such as safety grants to fund such a project.
Staff does not recommend the consideration of stops signs (temporary or permanent) at this location, as
Their installation would cause unacceptable delays and create additional traffic problems on adjacent
streets.
BACKGROUND: At the July 13, TSPC meeting, the Broadway/Paloma Pedestrian Safety subcommittee
reported back to the complete Commission regarding the outcome of a neighborhood meeting.
Commissioners Warden and Bohnert reported that after some deliberation with the representatives of
the Broadway businesses, one of the favored options to improve pedestrian safety was consideration of
temporary stop signs on Broadway and Paloma. After in-depth discussions between the entire
Commission, it was agreed that other safety measures should first be implemented; and, that staff would
return with a traffic analysis on possible ramifications to Broadway and surrounding streets if stop signs
were further considered.
DISCUSSION: The safety measures implemented were crosswalk enhancements such as installation of
knockdown delineators, reflectorized pavement markers, and additional paint to highlight the Broadway
crosswalks. Field analysis conducted several times over the course of two weeks confirmed that
crosswalk enhancements are having a positive affect on pedestrian safety. The enhancements have
also influenced vehicle speeds such that they appear to slow on their approach to the crosswalks. ln
one study period conducted between 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM, staff recorded all vehicles stopping and
yielding to pedestrians. Staff believes that these results are due to the increased driver awareness that
this intersection is a primary spot for pedestrian crossing. The enhancements have served to heighten
driver awareness of both the crosswalks and the presence of pedestrians in this commercial district.
Staff also assured the Commission that an analysis would be conducted regarding temporary/permanent
stop signs and their ramifications on surrounding streets. Computerized traffic modeling software was
not used in this analysis due to time constraints, as well as the large amount of staff time and resources
needed to carry out such a study in a short time period. lnstead, staff conducted standard travel-time,
delay, and traffic queue analysis for Broadway. The purpose of these studies was to establish baseline
conditions along the Broadway corridor. ln conjunction with previously conducted traffic volume studies,
staff extrapolated what conditions may be like along the corridor, as well as surrounding streets, should
stop signs be installed at the Broadway/Paloma intersection.
Page 1 of 3
S:\A Public Works Oir€c1ory\TsP Commission\Staff Reporlsu006\08-10-06 Broadway-Paloma Stops.doc
The time-travel studies showed that it takes from a minute and a half, to five and a half minutes to travel
through the Broadway commercial corridor. These studies were done during the AM, noontime, and PM
peaks, and, accounted for various pauses in traffic flow due to signals, pedestrians, parking vehicles,
and general traffic congestion. The shortest travel-time study was recorded during the AM peak, and the
longest travel-time study was recorded during the PM peak.
The delay study revealed that traffic can be delayed between 30 seconds to two and a half minutes.
Staff noted that the delays occur throughout the entire corridor, with a majority happening regularly at
the intersections of El Camino Real and California Drive.
Vehicles travel along the corridor in "platoons", or groups, of 5-7 vehicles. This platooning is created by
the regulation of the traffic signals at El Camino Real and at California Drive. Typically, a single vehicle
will make a 3-4 second stop at a stop sign. lt was calculated that with a s-car platoon, the last vehicle in
thal platoon is expected to have an additional 2o-second delay added to the total travel time through the
corridor. The delay is even further compounded if this s-car platoon is at the end of a series of other
prior platoons in a queue on Broadway.
Queue lengths were also studied. The typical queue length during the heaviest demands (12 noon to
1PM) was about 17 to 20 vehicles. The highest numbers of vehicles queuing on Broadway was 37
vehicles. A review of the traffic volume data, done for the previous stop warrant study, shows that
averages of between 900 to 1,000 vehicles travel along Broadway during the noon-to-afternoon peak.
Staff calculated that under peak conditions of maximum queue lengths and delays, it could take a
vehicle two signal cycles to get through the Broadway/California intersection.
So, under the worst case scenario, if a vehicle were at the end of a platoon, and that platoon was at the
tail end of two consecutive platoons, and there are stop signs at Broadway/Paloma; then, it can be
deduced that travel-time through the corridor could take over 6 minutes. (Worse Case = 5.5 minutes
travel-time + 40 seconds for stops)
It should be noted that Broadway is the most direct route to US101 from El Camino Real, and vise versa.
Through the studies, staff determined that Broadway should not be considered a destination point for all
the traffic. Field observations confirmed that significant numbers of large tractor-trailer trucks drive down
Broadway betvveen El Camino Real and US101. Given this, it should be expected that a good portion of
commercial drivers will not accept 6 minutes to travel down a s-block section of road, especially if there
are multiple parallel side streets available.
Current travel-time through the corridor is considered at near unacceptable standards. Based on traveF
time and delay studies, the installation of stop signs would add to this condition and create additional
delays along the corridor. First, the resulting delays would be unacceptable from both a driver/motorist
standpoint, and such delays are generally considered traffic flow "failures" under accepled
traffic/transportation criteria. Second, the most likely and logical result of such delays is the shift of
traffic from Broadway to parallel streets such as Lincoln, Grove, Carmelita, and Sanchez. Currently,
these residential streets already have speeding issues to contend with. Stop signs on
Broadway/Paloma may address one concern, but would certainly create multiple new ones on the
adjacent residential streets. Therefore, it is not recommended that the Commission consider stop signs
at Broadway and Paloma under these conditions.
As previously stated in this staff report, the crosswalk enhancements appear to be addressing a majority
of the concerns about pedestrian safety on Broadway. Consideration of a lighted crosswalk system was
Page 2 of 3
S lA Public Works Dirodory\TsP Commission\Stafl Repons\2006\08-10{6 Broa.t$€y-Patoru Slops.doc
Previous traffic studies show that the intersection of El Camino Real/Broadway operates at Level of
Service "8" (LOS). The same studies, however, show that the intersection of Broadway/California Drive
operates at LOS "D'. Such a designation indicates that this intersection is classified as operating at
"near-failure" condition, as measured through volume versus capacity standards.
also brought up in past discussions; however, these systems are strictly recommended for bid-block
crosswalk situations. The use of such a system at a specifically configured intersection would create
certain pedestrian and traffic movement conflicts. Because of this, the State of California and
engineering city staff do not recommend lighted crosswalks at this location, or any other clearly defined
intersections.
As a long-term strategy, staff recommends the City examine options to fund a simple 4-phase traffic
signal at this location. A traffic signal warrant study would need to be done to determine if quantitative
data would support the desire for a signal. Staff could look into certain safety grant applications to fund
such a project and help to defray the cost of signal installation.
Page 3 of 3
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Page I of3
PW/ENG-Chou, Augustine
From: fcrtkc [fcrtkc@ix.netcom.com]
Sent: Friday, August 04,2006 6:15 PM
To: PWENG-Chou, Augustine
Subject: RE: BwayiPaloma lntersection
To: Mr Augustine Chou
Traffic Engineer
City of Burlingame Friday,4 August 06
Dear Mr. Chou:
Thank you for taking the time to correspond, 31 July email below, on the Broadway Avenue/ Paloma Avenue
intersection.
Since I am on Broadway every day, foot or car, I see the two delineators. Each day both are nm over by trucks or cars,
not so much that they "are new" and drivers do not see them, but run overs are caused by the narrowness of Broadway
( 30 ft ) as a result of the sidewalk "bump outs" at that intersection.
This being the case, we will still see them being damaged from now through 12 months from now; and not have to wait
12 months to start thinking what will be "less intrusive" to drivers. Meanwhile the replacement costs will be
unacceptable. ( A related question,
how many are still in stock at the corporation yard, also is the supplier able to supply them on order, or do they have to
be back ordered, and what is the waiting time ? )
I think we should be asking ourselves at this time, what should be installed in a month or so. Options: Curbside
Pedestrian Signs, complete with the 45 degree arrow pointing to crosswalk, and the "Ladder Stencil " on the surface,
similar to that across from Christy's Restaurant on California Drive .
At the August l0 , Traffic, Safety, Parking Commissioners (T'Spoon) meeting you might consider giving a Interim
Update on the report, including options , that they requested of you , for the September 14 T'Spoon meeting.
A question: Will there be a item pertaining to the Broadway / Paloma intersection on the Commission agenda for the
August 10,2006 meeting. Trusting you will favor me with your reply before August 10, 2006.
Thank you again for your time and attention.
Rudy Horak, Burlingame Resident
At 02:35 P}4713112006 -0700, you wrote
Dear Mr. Horak,
To answer your question about delineator replacement, yes, the City is monitoring the delineator conditions. So far,
we ve had to replace the western crosswalk delineator once already. That was done early last week. lf the current
one is also damaged, I will have that one replaced as well.
8/712006
Page2 of3
Since their placement is new for the drivers on Paloma and Broadway, we did expect that we would initially need to
do replacement more often than normal. However, if damage continues 12 months after their installation, we will
need to look into something more permanent, and less intrusive to drivers.
Which brings me to your second observation - I am most delighted that you are seeing a reduction in speeds along
that part of Broadway. Based on my professional experience, this was to be expected. One major way to slow down
traffic is to clearly call attention of drivers to the presence of the crosswalk. Another is to place perceived , but legally
safety devices, in the roadway/crosswalk area to make drivers become more cautions. Unfortunately, stop signs
really have not been regarded as effective tools for directly addressing our concern; however, the use of reflectorized
markers, delineators, and cross-hatching paint are proven measures that have been successfully used by many
other cities. (lt s a bit of a sad social commentary that drivers will slow down more because of fear from damage to
their cars rather than fear of hitting pedestrians&)
I must confess that during all the public discussions, I was having a difficult time conveying to many business owners
my confidence that the above actions would bring positive results (no matter how large or small). As I have stated,
this action should be considered a beginning point. The only real issue is to determine through these incremental
actions, how far we need to go to address the entire problem. As I am fond of saying, there s no need to use a
sledgehammer to kill a fly, lf a fly-swatter will do. We should continue to use this same approach when addressing
the Broadway issue.
Best Regards,
Augustine Chou - Traffic Engineer
Public Works-Engineering Division
City of Burlingame
501 Primrose Road
(650) ss8-7236
-----Origina I Message-----
From : fcrtkc Imailto:fcft kc@ix.netcom.com]
Sent: Saturday, July 29,2006 6:25 PM
To: PW/ENG-Chou, Augustine
Subject: Bway/Paloma Intersection
Friday, July 28, 2006
The delineators on Broadway Ave / Paloma Intersection have been in place 8 days. The
Westerly one is now at a 45 degree angle. ( Mostly from being run over by cars entering
Broadway from Paloma, and not making a wide left turn, I saw that happen !!!!
Curious question: What is the criteria you, any Traffic Engineer, use for maintaining/replacing
the standard delineator ? I ask, as it appears to me that at the 45 degree angle, the delineator is
not as effective as vertical.
81712006
Page 3 of3
Also, I notice that the pedestrian crosswalk , both Westerly and Easterly crosswalks, have
become more safe for pedestrians.... surprise !!! more drivers actually drive less than the 25
MPH speed limit in the blocks approaching the delineators.. could it be that they see something
in the roadway, and slow down.
Rudy Horak
Dear Mr. Chou: I hope your vacation was enjoyable, and welcome back.
On Thursday, July 20th, at 7 AM I watched Rich Horn, and a helper from PW install two "Standard
Delineators" on Broadway Avenue at the Paloma Avenue intersection. Those appeared to be the basic
model which PW had in stock.
Observations over the next four days.. Drivers making a left turn into Broadway from Paloma, have to get
used to making a wide left turn ! As of now, several have run over the delineator, and you will see on
visiting the site , that the delineator is at about a 60 degree angle with the horizontal, eg: 30 degrees off the
vertical. At the rate of several times a day that it is being hit, we should be prepared to replace it often in
the next 90 days.
The bottom line.. the intersection is noticeably safer for pedestrians... especially those pushing baby
carriages, and seniors.
I'd encourage you to visit the intersection, and when there you might stop by the shop, Nuts for Candy,
nearby, and say hello to owner John Kervanian who is very knowledgeable of the intersection and
Broadway.
Thank you again for your involvement in this project... I do think that the delineators though not the perfect
solution, will provide additional data that will lead to Stop Signs..
Regards, Rudy Horak
8/7/2006
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