Tc - Item 2B - Keep Clear Markings - Valley Boulevard/Loma Avenue9 :
TO: TRAFFIC COMMISSION
FROM: CHRIS MARCARELLO, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
DATE: JANUARY 12, 2012
SUMMARY
A request was received for the Traffic Commission to review traffic conditions and access
at the intersection of Valley Boulevard and Loma Avenue. Residents in this area are
concerned that left turn access to this location is often delayed, resulting in impacts to
traffic flow and safety on Valley Boulevard.
Staff Recommendation
It is recommended that the Traffic Commission recommend to the City Council that the
installation of "Keep Clear pavement markings with limit lines in the westbound travel lanes
at the intersection of Valley Boulevard and Loma Avenue.
ANALYSIS
Valley Boulevard is approximately 76 feet wide with two traffic lanes for both east and
westbound traffic. Opposing lanes of traffic are separated by a two -way left turn lane.
Parking is prohibited on north and south sides of Valley Blvd. to accommodate turn lanes.
The posted speed limit on Valley Blvd. is 40 mph.
The intersection at Valley Blvd. and Hart Ave. is signalized. Field observations were made
at this location in early morning and early afternoon hours during a regular weekday.
Traffic congestion was moderate to heavy at both times. It was observed that during peak
travel times, vehicle delay /congestion on Valley Blvd. can cause delays for vehicles
entering /exiting Loma Avenue. This vehicle queue often blocks access to Loma Avenue.
In order to improve vehicle access and improve safety for left turning vehicles, it is
recommended that "Keep Clear' pavement markings be added in westbound travel lanes
with limit lines at the intersection of Valley Blvd and Loma Avenue. These markings will
help provide a gap to allow left turning vehicles to enter this location. Photographs of the
existing conditions are included in your packet for further review.
Submitted by:
Chris Marcarello
Public Works Director
Attachment 1: Site Conditions and Proposed Keep Clear Markings
Proposed "Keep Clear" Zone
Loma Avenue at Valley Boulevard