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TC - Minutes - 10-02-08FINAL MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING ROSEMEAD TRAFFIC COMMISSION OCTOBER 2, 2008 The meeting of the Rosemead Traffic Commission was called to order by Chairperson Knapp at 7:00 p.m., in the City Hall Council Chambers, 8838 E. Valley Boulevard, Rosemead. The pledge to the flag was led by Commissioner Lewin. The invocation was delivered by Vice Chairman Masuda. ROLL CALL OF OFFICERS: Present: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairman Masuda, Commissioners Deary, Lewin and Russell Absent: None APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes of September 4, 2008, Regular Meeting were amended as follows: On page 3, second paragraph under Mr. DelaCruz speaking before the Commission, Commissioner Lewin believes it would be appropriate to mention that Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained speed humps historically have not been used by the City. The paragraph is amended to read: `Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained history of speed humps in the City. That historically speed humps have not been used by the City and that staff has not been given any other direction from the City." On page 5, next to last paragraph, Commissioner Lewin stated he believes the location of the 7 foot hedge is the northwest corner. (Southwest corner is correct; no change in minutes.) Commissioner Lewin requested that on page 6, 2 " paragraph, "stops sign" be changed to "stop signs." 3 rtl paragraph: Change spelling of "Garvailia and Jcakson" to "Garvalia and Jackson." Under the Vote Results change Hunter to Russell. Vice Chairman Masuda motioned and seconded by Commissioner Russell to accept and approve the amended minutes of September 4, 2008. Vote Results: Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairperson Masuda, Commissioners Deary, Lewin and Russell Noes: None Abstain: None 2. PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE Mr. Roland Rodriguez, 8267 Artson Street, stated he is concerned about the crosswalk on Mission Drive that is directly in front of the Rosemead swimming pool. It needs to be repainted. Two children were hit by cars last year at that intersection. Other citizens are also concerned about the crosswalk. He asked that perhaps the City could conduct a study, possibly put in a Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 1 of 10 FINAL reflector system where the reflectors light up, and signs. He stated that while waiting to pick up his children he has noticed that people drive pretty fast in that area. Chairperson Knapp asked Mr. Rodriguez if he could be more specific about the location of the crosswalk. Mr. Rodriguez answered that it is on Mission, directly in front of the Rosemead swimming pool. Near Newby. Mr. Larry Callaham, Principal of Rosemead High School, verified that two children were struck after school last year while in that crosswalk. He stated it is a very dangerous crosswalk because people traveling westbound have a speed limit of 45 and then 25 mph at the school, but when there is little traffic the crosswalk is ignored by the drivers He arrives at the school between 6:45 and 7:00 a.m., not a heavy traffic time, but there are students using the crosswalk crossing north to the pool and on down the street. During peak hours the traffic is congested and much slower. It is after school hours when traffic moves freely that the crosswalk is the most dangerous. Mr. Callaham confirmed that the crosswalk is at Newby. He also requested a study be conducted. Commissioner Lewin stated that Mission Drive is one of the things that he was thinking of as a possible study topic. In particular, that stretch between Rosemead Boulevard and Valley Boulevard. In general, he believes the Commission needs to take a look at Mission Drive and see if it could be made a safer street. He believes 40 miles per hour is too high for that street, especially that section. He agreed with Mr. Rodriguez and Mr. Callaham that something needs to be done with that crosswalk, and that Mission needs to be looked at. Chairperson Knapp asked if painting the crosswalk isn't something that should have been done earlier. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki responded that Deputy Public Works Director Chris Marcarello will make sure the crosswalk at Mission and Newby will get painted. Mr. Marcarello stated he will take care of it. 4. OLD BUSINESS A. TRAFFIC STUDY AT RUSH STREET AND ANGELUS AVENUE Deputy Public Works Director Chris Marcarello presented the staff report. Notification cards were sent out to people within the immediate vicinity of Rush Street and Angelus Avenue. Mr. Marcarello stated that unfortunately it did not appear that many people were able to attend the meeting. Recommendation It is staffs recommendation that the Traffic Commission: 1) Review the presentation made by staff and Kimley -Horn and Associates, 2) Recommend to City Council that Level 1 improvements be made along Rush Street, and 3) Direct staff to continue monitoring traffic conditions and provide updates regarding the effectiveness of the Level 1 improvements. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 2 of 10 FINAL An unidentified person from the audience stated he just received the postcard notification. The card is postmarked September 30 and he received it October 2n He is not at the Traffic Commission meeting because of Rush Street but for the Delta Avenue agenda item. His neighbor received his card October 1 and that is what made him aware of the Delta Avenue agenda item. There was some discussion about the notification process; many cards were sent out to tenants and property owners a week earlier notifying them of the agenda items. The lateness of delivery will be addressed by the Commission at a later time. Mr. Bill Dvorak of Kimley -Horn and Associates made the presentation of traffic calming alternatives for Rush Street and Angelus Avenue. Kimley- Horn's recommendation is Level 1 improvements and staff to determine if Wal -Mart can be conditioned to pay for these or any improvements. Discussion Commissioner Deary inquired about Wal -Mart's stake in the improvements and wondered if they had been invited to the meeting. Mr. Marcarello responded their stake is nothing. Chairperson Knapp explained that Wal- Mart comes up because of the condition of approval, number 41. Mr. Marcarello explained Wal -Mart agreed to provide a certain amount of money for a crossing guard at that location and if warranted, they would fund installation of a flashing yellow beacon. Vice Chairman Masuda likes implementing Level 1 and part of Level 2. He asked if higher visibility on bulb -outs can be installed. Delineators, large Botts' dots, short berm were suggested by Chairperson Knapp and Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki. Chairperson Knapp asked if the installation of Botts' dots could cause any problems such as when the children are walking on them. Mr. Dvorak stated he was not sure if that has ever been an issue and he would need to discuss it with the engineers. He would hope there would be no issues. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki agreed with Mr. Dvorak, stating the children would be in an area where they should not be crossing because the dots would be on the outside of the crosswalk; it all depends what is suggested and how designed. Commissioner Russell asked about the time frame if the improvements are approved, if Level 1 is not successful and Level 2 is approved for implementation, and also if Level 3 is implemented. Mr. Dvorak stated generally one year review period is used. There needs to be objective opinions as well as data. Maybe six months to review while school is in session and then make a decision whether to proceed. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained that the Commissioners will have an opportunity to pick and choose parts of each level. Commissioner Lewin asked about crosswalk markings. More reflective paint? What about retro - reflective? He also suggested extending the median for a "safe" area, a stop point in the intersection if the pedestrian needs to stop. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 3 of 10 FINAL Vice Chairman Masuda asked if the intent of having a pick up / drop -off zone as shown in Level 2 is for convenience and to slow the traffic. Mr. Dvorak indicated yes. Maria Perea, 2434 Charlotte, did not sign the petition. She drives Angelus and Rush every day. She stated one improvement would be lower shrubbery and trim trees higher. Trees and shrubbery limit visibility. Concerning the drop off, she asked if that would actually be on Rush. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated the intent is for some of the cars westbound on Rush to drop -off there and not have them turn right on to Angelus. Ms. Perea indicated Rush is a very dangerous street; speed is the issue. Virginia Peterson, Superintendent of Garvey School District, expressed interest in the drop -off area. This is something the District is looking at for all their schools. She stated the drop -off might be helpful to the school; it will remove traffic from Angelus. She suggested it might be appropriate for some City staff to talk to school staff and provide training for them and the drop -off volunteers, and even drivers. Chairperson Knapp asked Ms. Peterson how the crossing guard is working out at that location. Ms. Peterson responded there are no problems specifically identified. It appears the crossing guard is taking great care in his position. Mr. Richard Vasquez, 8105 E. Whitmore, does not live in this particular area but he does drive it every afternoon while returning home from work, east to west on Rush. He has heard the focus of the Commissioners' discussion to be on the crosswalk, but he believes installation of speed signs is just important. When he sees one of the flashing signs it immediately makes him aware of his speed. With the idea of prevention, he believes it is important to slow the drivers before they get to the crosswalk. He also suggests lowering the speed limit. Commissioner Lewin stated he is leaning towards Level 1 with a few modifications. He would like to look at changing the vegetation on all three median areas. Have low growth and possibly trim trees higher along the whole stretch. Chairperson Knapp asked if all Commissioners agree. They responded yes Commissioner Lewin would also like to add an extension of median nose into the crosswalk with ADA ramp on either side; basically have that as a stop area for pedestrians if needed. After discussion by Mr. Dvorak, Commissioner Lewin revised his request to have staff study the feasibility of adding the median nose ramp. If the drop off /pick up zone is implemented, Commissioner Lewin would like for staff to work with Rice Elementary staff to establish a time frame for installation so that Rice Elementary can get everything they need into place before installation. Commissioner Deary asked with regard to the drop off if there would be a painted line. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki responded yes, it is shown on the Level 2, Figure 3 diagram. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 4 of 10 lyla_1I Chairperson Knapp wondered if the Botts' dots should be added to Level 1. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki suggested to keep this in Phase 2. After Level 1 is looked at the City can ask the residents what can be done to improve it. Vice Chairman Masuda asked if there is a need for dots or delineators at the south side bulb -out. He believes there needs to be something to slow the traffic; even the traffic cone the crossing guard puts out slows the traffic. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki asked a question of Commissioner Lewin for clarification. His motion is to look at Level 1 and do the drop off, because Level 2 includes the bulb -out on the north side. Commissioner Lewin stated he is asking for the bulb -out on the south side also. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained that what she sees is that with Level 2 the drop off could be done without the south side bulb -out. For this reason she was asking for Commissioner Lewin's intent. Commissioner Lewin stated at this point he had made no motion or intent for the bulb - out. Vice Chairman Masuda is in favor of adding the bulb -outs on the south side too, with some kind of delineator. Commissioner Russell wondered how paint will slow someone down Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained it has been shown that when a street has been visually narrowed with lines, there is an effect of a corridor feeling. So even though it is only paint, it does affect how you feel when driving. Commissioner Lewin added that if a bulb -out is added on the south side at the crosswalk, there would also be a need to put the painted 13 foot bulb -out on the west side of the driveway. He is concerned that since basically everything east of the crosswalk on the south side of Rush is being red curbed, many parking spaces will be eliminated. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki asked Mr. Dvorak if cars can still park west of the driveway. Mr. Dvorak indicated that parking would be allowed. Commissioner Russell wondered, when the Commission is talking about Figure 3 Level 2, why the Commission doesn't go to that Level instead of going to Level 1 and changing it. The Commissioners looked at the Figures and agreed on Level 2 Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki clarified that the recommendation is to go to Level 2 with the addition of a study of the feasibility of adding an extension to the median nose, and to work with the Rice Elementary and the District with regard to drop -off and pick -up zone to make sure that they are able to accommodate the drop- off /pick -up zone. Motion Commissioner Russell motioned and Commissioner Lewin seconded that the Traffic Commission recommends to the City Council that Level 2 improvements be made along Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 5 of 10 FINAL Rush Street; that staff continue monitoring traffic conditions; that staff be directed to work with staff of Rice Elementary and the school District with regard to the drop -off and pick -up zone; that shrubs be lower and trees trimmed higher to increase visibility from the Wal -Mart entrance to San Gabriel Boulevard. Vote Results: Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairman Masuda, Commissioners Deary, Lewin and Russell Noes: None Abstain: None B. TRAFFIC STUDY PRIORITIES Deputy Works Director Chris Marcarello presented the Traffic Study Priorities report. Recommendation It is staffs recommendation that the Traffic Commission review its list of priority traffic studies and provide direction regarding a study to review. Discussion In response to a question by Commissioner Russell about the Priorities list, Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained that the Traffic Study Priorities are more city -wide traffic issues, such as having a neighborhood traffic management program. Speeding is an issue throughout the City and the Commission is very limited in the number of ways it can be handled. What is being done with Rush /Angelus is a start at looking at the bigger picture. It is a specific location with specific problems, but it gives the Commissioners an idea of other tools that can be used to help address some traffic issues. Past issues with specific crosswalks for example, what can be done with uncontrolled crosswalks? When the Commission talks about traffic studies it should be looked at as an opportunity for the Commission to have a voice in how things throughout the city can be addressed in a more "global' manner. Another example is the recent "blue curb" policy. Commissioner Russell asked about Rosemead Boulevard. Mr. Marcarello responded that Rosemead Boulevard is under Caltrans' jurisdiction; possible relinquishment is down the road. Commissioner Russell cited possible studies of signals /flashing red lights for both fire stations. She also suggested Walgreens driveway and northbound San Gabriel at about Hellman as you enter the freeway. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki suggested these two items should come before the Traffic Commission as a regular item. Vice Chairman Masuda suggested looking at tour bus traffic and truck routes, along Walnut Grove Avenue and other residential streets in the area especially. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated truck routes is one item that has been addressed in the General Plan by the Planning Commission. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 6 of 10 FINAL Commissioner Lewin asked Mr. Marcarello if the intent is for the Commission to choose several things, make a motion and approve them, and that will be the study list. Mr. Marcarello responded it is staffs recommendation that the Commission pick out a few studies to start with to get the process going. It would go to City Council and advise that the Commission has recommended that the issues be looked at. Commissioner Lewin stated that because the truck route study is included in the General Plan Update he will drop that from his list. He recommends a neighborhood traffic management improvement option; residential speeding is a big issue for the City. Speed humps should be included. City Council previously indicated, about two decades ago, that they did not want speed bumps in the City, Commissioner Lewin believes it important to learn the attitude of the new council concerning speed bumps. Commissioner Lewin also suggested guidelines for protected /permissive left -turn signals. Chairperson Knapp cited her desire to get the pocket at southbound Walnut Grove and Ramona. Also the potholes at the ramp and throughout the City. Motion Commissioner Lewin motioned and Commissioner Masuda seconded that the Commission recommends to the City Council that staff be directed to study the development of a Neighborhood Traffic Management improvement program which would include speed bumps, bulb -outs, and various tools. The Commission also recommends to the City Council that staff be directed to develop guidelines for protected /permissive signals within the City. Commissioner Russell submitted a substitute motion. She believes the southbound Walnut Grove /Ramona left turn lane is a vital issue to the community. Chairperson Knapp indicated that the work has been approved but it just hasn't been done. Commissioner Russell asked if it has been approved or not approved; what is the status? In response to a question from Mr. Marcarello, Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated that the work was to have been completed by the previous City Engineer but was not. It is a matter of getting it added to a project list. Mr. Marcarello will make sure that it gets back into the pipeline. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki suggested the Commission send this back to the Council and let them know it was already approved and there needs to be a way to fund the work. Commissioner - Russell would like to have a study for the fire station lights and the speed bumps. Commissioner Lewin pointed out that the speed bumps are included in the Neighborhood Traffic Management study. Concerning the fire station lights, Mr. Marcarello stated staff could work with the Fire Department. This will be added to the list for the Traffic Commission. The original motion by Commissioner Lewin and seconded by Vice Chairman Masuda was amended to include a reminder to Council regarding the left -turn at southbound Walnut Grove at Ramona. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 7 of 10 FINAL Vote Results: Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Lewin and Russell Noes: None Abstain: None 4. NEW BUSINESS Vice Chairman Masuda, Commissioners Deary, A. EARLE AVENUE AND DELTA AVENUE: BETWEEN MISSION DRIVE AND WELLS STREET — Concern Regarding Speeding and Lack of Sidewalk Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki presented the staff report. Recommendation It is staffs recommendation that selective speed enforcement be conducted on Earle Avenue and Delta Avenue between Mission Drive and Wells Street especially during school start and release times to address the current speeding issue. It is staffs recommendation that the Traffic Commission recommends the City Council consider the implementation of a speed hump policy or a neighborhood traffic calming program that could be applied city -wide. Discussion Mr. Manuel Cox, 4527 Earle, likes staffs recommendation. He noticed a deputy at the corner and there was a difference. Mr. Cox has observed residences that have vegetation growing on City right -of -way which forces the children into the street. He stated there is not much foot traffic because parents drive their children to school, only a short distance away. Mr. Sal De La Cruz, 4533 Earle, stated enforcement officer parked on the street has helped this week. The crossing guard at Walnut Grove and Wells is very slow. Mr. Marcarello will follow up. Chairperson. Knapp asked Mr. Marcarello about the sidewalks. She wondered if there is a code requirement that would mandate installation of a sidewalk. Mr. Marcarello responded there was a code requiring a sidewalk when valuation of a remodel is over $10,000. However, Council approved an ordinance contrary to that; right now there is no legal course to require a sidewalk. The City is being proactive and will work with the residents. There are CDBG grant funds that can be used. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki asked if the City can require a resident who has vegetation within the City right -of -way to cut it back. Mr. Marcarello said "absolutely." Residents are supposed to apply for an encroachment permit for any vegetation or if there are accessibility issues. With a specific address the issue can be addressed to the property owner. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 8 of 10 FINAL Mr. Cox was asked for the addresses of the homes with the vegetation. He could provide no addresses but the residences are on the west side of Earle, two houses north of Wells. Mr. Roberto Salazar, 4504 Delta, stated speeds are faster during commute times on Delta. There is some cut through traffic. He believes speed humps will help. In 2001 when he added a bedroom to his house he did not have to add a sidewalk. Commissioner Lewin suggested speed limit signs be posted at either end of both streets to serve as a friendly reminder. It may not affect the worst speeders but it may act as a reminder in some kind of positive fashion. Commissioner Lewin stated that eastbound Wells Street, almost no one stops at that stop sign. When he was with Mr. Cox they watched two or three cars basically go through the stop sign. He recommends a larger sized stop sign and more enforcement. Motion Commissioner Lewin motioned and Vice Chairman Masuda seconded that the Traffic Commission recommends to the City Council to install 25 mph speed signs in both directions of Delta and Earle at Mission and Wells; and increase the size of stop sign on eastbound Wells at Earle, and refresh paint at that intersection. Mr. Marcarello indicated the City is going to bid to inventory all traffic devices throughout the City. This inventory will record all traffic signs. The inventory will then be used as a maintenance tool. Vote Results: Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Lewin and Russell Noes: None Abstain: None 5. STAFF REPORTS - NONE 6. COMMISSIONER REPORTS Vice Chairman Masuda, Commissioners Deary, Commissioner Deary asked about the form for "problems." Traffic Engineering Deputy has it ready and will email to each of them. The form will be prepared as a pad for their use. Commissioner Russell wants to make sure that someone talks with the crossing guard at Walnut Grove and Wells. Vice Chairman Masuda stated that notifications of agenda items need to get out earlier. Chairperson Knapp suggested making courtesy phone calls to the key people. A speaker from the audience stated that one reason some residents from Delta and Earle did not attend the meeting was because of the Vice Presidential debate scheduled earlier in the evening. Commissioner Lewin added perhaps the calls could be made specifically to those who spoke previously. Those are the people who are the ones most likely to come and talk again. Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 9 of 10 FINAL Vice Chairman Masuda suggested a recorded message about the meeting. Mr. Marcarello responded that might be happening eventually. Some cities are going to CRM (Customer Relationship Management) that could handle this type of thing. But for now, the website, mailers, or calls to the critical people would be good. 7. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned until November 6, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. J1 :mec (06160)1 74 7 011 002/Min04 Rosemead Traffic Commission Minutes of October 2, 2008 Page 10 of 10 STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS. CITY OF ROSEMEAD 1 I, Gloria Molleda, City Clerk for the City of Rosemead, do hereby certify that the Traffic Commission minutes of October 2, 2008 was duly and regularly approved by the Rosemead Traffic Commission meeting on the 6ch of November 2008, by the following vote to wit: Yes: Knapp, Masuda, Deary, Lewin, Rusell No: None Absent: None Abstain: None 1 i In,,, 'UALJ Gloria Molleda City Clerk