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TC - Item 2A - Minutes 2-3-2011Minutes of the Regular ROSEMEAD TRAFFIC COMMISSION MEETING February 3, 2011 The Regular meeting of the Rosemead Traffic Commission was called to order by Chairwoman Russell at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 8838 E. Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. FLAG SALUTE: Chairwoman Russell INVOCATION: Vice Chairman Lewin PRESENT: Chairwoman Russell, Vice Chairman Lewin, Commissioner Masuda, Commissioner Hall, Commissioner Wong ABSENT: None STAFF PRESENT: Public Works Director Marcarello and Admin. Assistant Llamas 1. PUBLIC COMMENT FROM THE AUDIENCE � Both Item A and B were removed from the Consent Calendar for minor corrections. Vice Chairman Lewin motioned, seconded by Commissioner Wong to approve Item A (December 2, 2010 minutes) and to include minor corrections. Votes resulted in: Yes: Lewin, Wong, Russell, Hall, Masuda No: None Abstain: None Absent: None After reviewing minor corrections to Item B, (Access to Rosemead Park Aquatics Facility Parking Lot) Vice Chairman Lewin motioned, seconded by Commissioner Hall to approve Item B with adding a time restriction on the westerly exit. Votes resulted in: Yes: Lewin, Hall, Masuda, Wong, Russell No: None Abstain: None Absent: None Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes of February 3, 2011 Page 1 of 4 3. NEW BUSINESS Staff gave the Traffic Commissioners a brief description on the item and included an update on maintenance improvements (replacing signage, speed limit street markings, installing raised pavement markers) that had recently been made. Sharon Esquivel addressed the Commission and explained that she would like to see additional red curb installed along the road curve from Dubbonet Avenue to Loftus Drive. She added that the red curbing adjacent to the fire hydrant at this location needs to be added as well. Salvador Portugal addressed the Commission and shared the same concerns as Ms. Esquivel. Mr. Portugal believes that the existing curb is not the area with the biggest safety concerns and explained that the existing red curbing has taken parking spaces away from the residents. Chairwoman Russell informed the Commissioners that this item has to be closely reviewed because they are dealing with several traffic safety issues at this location. Maung Myo addressed the Commission and explained that he doesn't like the idea of removing the red curb that was recently approved and installed. He further commented that speed bumps may be needed in this area. Staff informed Mr. Myo the reason the item was brought back for further discussion and also informed him that the staff recommendation is for the Commission to uphold its previous decision. However, after taking public input tonight, the Commission may decide to revise the existing red curbing. Michael Garcia expressed concerns related to the safety of children that walk to school in this area. He believes that if red curbing is added in front of 8747 Loftus it would help drivers see children walking and oncoming traffic. Mr. Garcia also asked if staff can look into adding sidewalks and speed bumps in this area. Rafael Mendoza expressed concerns related to the safety of children walking in this area. He further suggested adding red curb in front of 8747 Loftus Drive. Jean -Marc Viallet addressed the Commission and expressed support for earlier comments that pedestrian safety is a top priority. He agreed that adding speed bumps and sidewalks in this area would help improve traffic safety concerns. Mr. Viallet also mentioned that cars are always speeding down this street and that he doesn't think that the raised pavement markers are working. Commissioner Wong thanked everyone for coming out to express their concerns. He also concurred with Chairwoman Russell's earlier comments that this location would need additional analysis prior to making a final decision. Mr. Wong also asked staff to research prior accident reports and citations in the area over the past six months and consider installing a "Slow Down" traffic sign in this area. Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes of February 3, 2011 Page 2 of 4 Claire Garcia addressed the Commission and expressed her opinion on the safety improvements done so far in the area. She indicated that she thinks additional improvements are needed to make the street safer. Commissioner Masuda discussed the installation of raised pavement markers at the location and described why they are beneficial in road curve areas. He also informed the Commission that he visited the site before coming to the Commission meeting. As a result of cars parked on both side of the street, he explained that he was forced to drive over the markers at this location. Commissioner Masuda also recommended that residents look into the City's traffic calming toolbox for other ideas to improve traffic safety. Vice Chairman Lewin discussed the use of convex mirrors and asked staff to research if there are standards governing their installation. Commissioner Hall informed the Commissioners that adding red curbing, especially near the fire hydrant, should provide additional space /clearance for vehicles to drive through the area in this area. Chairwoman Russell asked that staff bring back this item for additional discussion next month including a diagram indicating discussed changes to parking restrictions. Vice Chairman Lewin made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Hall to direct staff to bring back suggestions for signage, speed limits, lights, sidewalks, convex mirrors and the Tool Box. Votes resulted in: Yes: Lewin, Hall, Masuda, Russell, Wong No: None Abstain: None Absent: None 4. STAFF REPORTS Staff gave the Commission a briefing on upcoming events and projects in the City. At a future meeting Vice Chairman Lewin would like to discuss the intersection of Grand and Walnut Grove Ave. including safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians. Commissioner Masuda commented that the recently installed speed feedback signs haven't been working regularly. Chairwoman Russell discussed problems with the traffic signal and left -turn phasing at the intersection of Potrero Grande /Rush St. and asked that staff look into the location. Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes of February 3, 2011 Page 3 of 4 6. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 910 p.m. The next Traffic Commission meeting is scheduled for March 3, 2011 at 7:00p.m. and will take place at the Rosemead City Hall, City Council Chambers, 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Joanne Russell Chairwoman Chris Marcarello Public Works Director Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes of February 3, 2011 Page 4 of 4