CC - Item 4E - Walnut Grove Avenue and Halkett Avenues •
ROSEMEAD CITY COUNCIL
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STAFF REPORT
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
FROM: OLIVER CHI, CITY MANAGER
DATE: OCTOBER 28, 2008
SUBJECT: TRAFFIC SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT WALNUT GROVE AVENUE
AND HALKETT AVENUE
SUMMARY
On September 4, 2008, the Traffic Commission reviewed a request to add a crosswalk
at Walnut Grove Avenue and Halkett Avenue. After visiting the site, staff found that
current traffic conditions do not warrant the addition of new striping or traffic control
modifications. However, staff did provide alternative measures to help alleviate
speeding and improve safety in this vicinity, including the addition of white raised
pavement markers (RPM) in front~of the existing edge lines on Walnut Grove between
Grand Avenue and Mission Drive. Based on the traffic engineer's observations, the
Traffic Commission approved staff's recommendation to add RPMs and also add a road
curve warning sign with a flashing yellow beacon along Walnut Grove Avenue.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Traffic Commission's
recommendation and authorize staff to take necessary steps to implement traffic safety
enhancements along Walnut Grove Avenue.
DISCUSSION
Based on the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), certain
guidelines are used in considering the installation of a traffic control device. After
conducting field observations related to traffic conditions along Walnut Grove Avenue,
staff found that current conditions do not warrant the installation of striping or traffic
control modifications at Walnut Grove Avenue and Halkett Avenue. As an alternative,
staff recommended that the Traffic Commission consider the installation of raised
pavement markers along existing edge lines. The Commission concurred with staff's
recommendations and also asked that a road curve warning sign with a flashing yellow
beacon be added.
In addition to these improvements, staff will .also inspect and if necessary, repaint
existing roadway markings .at this location.
APPROVED FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA: O
n
City Council Meeting ,
October 28, 2008
Page 2 of 2
FINANCIAL REVIEW
Funding for. this work is included in the Fiscal Year 2008-09 budget.
Pre ared by:
Chris Marcarello
Deputy Public Works Director
Submitt y:
Brian ki
Assistant City Manager
Attachments:
1- Traffic Commission Agenda Report -September 4, 2008
2- Traffic Commission Minutes -September 4, 2008
ATTACHMENT A •
ROSEMEAD TRAFFIC COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
TO: THE HONORABLE CHAIRMAN AND COMMISSIONERS
FROM: JOANNE ITAGAKI, TRAFFIC ENGINEERING DEPUTY
DATE: SEPTEMBER 4, 2008
SUBJECT` WALNUT GROVE AVENUE/HALKETT AVENUE -Request for
Crosswalk on Walnut Grove Avenue
SUMMARY
Two letters (attached) were received from Councilwoman Clark and Mr. Armando
Najera, 4828 Walnut Grove Avenue. Mr. Armando is concerned with crossing Walnut
Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue. He cites that there are no marked crosswalks at this
intersection and that vehicles do not always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
Councilwoman Clark has asked that stop sign or signal warrants be considered as well
as "other measures that make crosswalks safer."
Staff Recommendation
It is staff's recommendation that no striping or traffic control modifications be made to
the intersection of Walnut Grove Avenue and Halkett Avenue.
It is staff's recommendation that the Traffic Commission recommends the City Council
approve the installation of white raised pavement markers (RPMs) behind the existing
edge lines on Walnut Grove Avenue in the immediate vicinity of-the start of the blocks
between Grand Avenue and Mission Drive.
ANALYSIS
Walnut Grove Avenue is a 56-foot wide roadway with two lanes of traffic in each
direction. Opposing lanes of traffic are separated by a double yellow centerline. In
addition, there is a white edge line painted on both sides of Walnut Grove Avenue from
just north of Mission Drive to Grand Avenue. Parking is allowed on both sides of the
street. The posted speed limit on Walnut Grove Avenue is 40 mph.
Halkett Avenue is a 30-foot wide roadway with no traffic striping. Halkett Avenue is stop
controlled at its intersection with Walnut Grove Avenue. Parking is allowed on both
sides of the street. The prima facie speed limit.on Halkett Avenue is 25 mph.
• •
Traffic Commission Meeting
September 4, 2008
Page 2 of 5
Exhibit "A" depicts existing -conditions at the intersection of Walnut Grove Avenue and
Halkett Avenue.
Discussion
Traffic data was collected at the intersection of Walnut- Grove Avenue and Halkett
Avenue. The following summarizes the data collected:
Average Daily Traffic
Walnut Grove Avenue
Halkett Avenue
12,879 (6,381 NB / 6,498 SB)
177 (77 EB / 100 WB)
Recorded Speeds on Walnut Grove Avenue
Time 2:30 - 3:30 PM
# observed 195 vehicles
10 mph pace 35 - 44 mph
50th % 39 mph
85th % 43 mph
Pedestrians Observed
Time 3:30 - 4:30 PM
# observed 1 adult (crossing the west leg of Halkett Avenue)
No pedestrians observed crossing Walnut Grove Avenue
Reported Accident History
Time Period 01/01/05 - 12/31/07
Accident type
Field observations of the intersection during the afternoon peak period indicated very
light traffic volumes from Halkett Avenue also, as indicated in the data, very little
pedestrian traffic. The intersection of Walnut Grove Avenue/Grand Avenue (all-way
stop controlled) is approximately 800 feet north of Halkett Avenue. Walnut Grove
Avenue/Mission Drive (signalized) is approximately 715 feet south of Halkett Avenue.
Mr. Najera indicates that vehicles "do not slow down or stop" when he is trying to cross
Walnut Grove Avenue. Though staff did not directly observe this situation, it is typical of
many of today's drivers.
Staff considered several traffic control tools that might be appropriate at this intersection
to address the need to cross Walnut Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue. These include
the following: flashing yellow beacon, in-roadway warning lights, and stop signs.
Traffic Commission Meeting
September 4, 2008
Page 3 of 5 '
Flashing Yellow Beacons- - The California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control
Devices (CA MUTCD) provides ~ guidelines as to when this device should be
considered. The CA MUTCD states:
"Typical applications for flashing beacons include the following:
1. Signal Ahead
2. Stop Signs
3. Speed Limit Signs
4. Other Warning and Regulatory Signs
5. Schools
6. Fire Stations
7. Intersection Control
8. Freeway Bus Stops
9. At Intersections Where a More Visible Warning~is Desired.
Typical uses include:
1. Obstructions in or immediately adjacent to the roadway.
2. Supplemental to advance warning signs.
3. At mid-block crosswalks.
4. At intersections where a warning is appropriate."
The intersection of Walnut Grove Avenue/Halkett Avenue does not satisfy the typical
uses for a flashing yellow beacon. The closest consideration would be under
category number 4 of the typical uses ("at intersections where a warning is
appropriate"). .However, even though Walnut Grove Avenue "curves" in this section,
the visibility of the intersection at Halkett Avenue is greater than stopping sight
distance necessary (340 feet). In addition, the reported collision history does not
indicate there is a problem with, visibility based on the lack of reported right-angle
and/or rearend collisions. Therefore, installation of a flashing yellow beacon at
Walnut Grove Avenue/Halkett Avenue is not recommended at this time.
2. In-Roadway Warning Lights (IRWLs) -These are special lights installed on the
roadway surface to warn motorists of an "approaching condition on or adjacent to
the roadway that might not be readily apparent and might require the road users to
slow down and/or come to a stop. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to,
situations warning of marked school crosswalks, marked midblock crosswalks,
marked crosswalks on uncontrolled approaches..."
If used, the IRWLs at crosswalks are to be "installed only at marked crosswalks with
applicable warning signs. They shall not be used at crosswalks controlled by YIELD
signs, STOP signs, or traffic control signals." For the intersection of Walnut Grove
Avenue and Halkett Avenue, a marked crosswalk would be required to install
IRWLs.
Traffic Commission Meeting
September 4, 2008
Page 4 of 5
The CA MUTCD indicates the following shall be considered when evaluating the
need for IRWLs:
a. "Whether the crossing is controlled or uncontrolled.
b. An engineering and traffic study to determine if In-Roadway Warning Lights
are compatible with the safety and operation of nearby intersections, which
may or may not be, controlled by traffic signals or STOP/YIELD signs.
c. Standard traffic signs for crossings and crosswalk pavement markings are
provided.
d. At least 40'pedestrians regularly use the crossing during each of any two
hours (not necessarily consecutive) during a 24-hour period.
e. The vehicular volume through the crossing exceeds 200 vehicles per hour in
urban areas or 140 vehicles per hour in rural areas during peak-hour
pedestrian usage.
f. The critical approach speed (85th percentile) is 70 km/h (45 mph) or less.
g. In-Roadway Warning Lights are visible to drivers at the minimum stopping
sight distance for the posted speed limit.
h. Public education on /n-Roadway Warning Lights is conducted for new
installations. "
The primary consideration for the installation of IRWLs at the intersection of Walnut
Grove Avenue/Halkett Avenue is the number of pedestrians that cross at this
intersection. This threshold is used throughout the CA MUTCD when considering
pedestrians. It is intended to insure the proper level of traffic control is implemented
for pedestrians, bicyclist and motorists. Based on the field observations and the
location of the intersection, it is likely that less than 40 pedestrians cross Walnut
Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue during a 24-hour period. Therefore, the installation
of IRWLs at this intersection is not recommended at this time.
3. Stop Signs -Halkett Avenue is already stop controlled at its intersection with Walnut
Grove Avenue. Staff considered the installation of stop signs on Walnut Grove
Avenue to create an all-way stop controlled intersection.
The installation of stop signs is based on guidelines presented. in the CA MUTCD.
-These guidelines consider the reported accident history, traffic volumes, pedestrian
F grid bicycle volumes and speed on the roadway. Exhibit B identifies the CA MUTCD
guidelines as they compare to data collected at Walnut Grove Avenue/Halkett
Avenue.
In the analysis, staff made a conservative assumption that 50 pedestrians and
bicycles cross Walnut Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue during each of the 8 hours
analyzed. This was considered since field observations did not occur during the
peak hours when pedestrians and/or bicycles might be present. However, even with
this assumption, the "Combined Volumes" do not satisfy the 140 units per hour for 8
hours (70 percent value) on the minor street.
Traffic Commission Meeting
September 4, 2008
Page 5 of 5
Therefore, based on the volume of traffic from Halkett Avenue and the pedestrians
and bicycles crossing Walnut Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue, the installation of
stop signs on Walnut Grove Avenue at Halkett Avenue is not recommended at this
time. .
During the last Traffic Commission meeting, Commissioner Masuda indicated his
concern regarding the existing edge line. Commissioner Masuda indicated that many
times vehicles traveling on Walnut Grove Avenue disregard the edge line, especially at
the start of the blocks, and veer into the parking area. Commissioner Masuda also
stated that he had observed collisions with parked vehicles.
The installation of white raised pavement markers (RPMs) to enhance the edge lines on
Walnut Grove Averiue was considered. Such an installation would provide a tactile
reminder to motorists of the parking lane adjacent to the fronting residential uses. The
RPMs would be installed just in the area of the start of the block behind the edge line. It
would not extend the entire distance of the edge line. The RPMs will increase the
noise level of the neighborhood when vehicles traverse them.
Recommendation
It is recommended that RPMs be installed behind the existing edge lines on Walnut
Grove Avenue in the immediate vicinity of the start of the blocks between Grand Avenue
and Mission Drive. Exhibit A depicts this recommendation.
PUBLIC NOTICE PROCESS
This item has been noticed through the regular agenda notification process.
Submitted by:
Joanne Itagaki
Traffic Engineering Deputy
Exhibit A: Existing conditions and Recommendations at Walnut Grove Avenue/Halkett Avenue
Exhibit B: Multi-way Stop Sign Worksheet
Q:\jn17470-Rsd 2008-09 TE on-call\Traffic Commission Agendas\September 2008\WG-Halkett xwalk concern.doc
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Exhibit B
CITY OF ROSEMEAD
MULTI-WAY STOP SIGN WORKSHEET
(CA MIJTCD 2006)
LOCATION: Walnut Grove Avenue/Halkett Avenue DATE: 08/2008
The installation of multi-way STOP signs is based on the following:
A. Where traffic control signals are justified, the multiway stop is an interim measure
that can be installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made
for the installation of the traffic control signal.
Satisfied: Yes No
B. A crash problem, as indicated by 5 or more reported crashes in a 12-month
period that are susceptible to correction by a multiway stop installation. Such
crashes include right- and left-turn collisions as well as right-angle collisions.
(Report period 01/01/05 to 12/31/07: reported collisions) Satisfied: Yes NO
C. Minimum traffic volumes:
1. The vehicular volume entering the intersection from the major street
approaches (total of both approaches) averages at least 300 vehicles per
hour for any 8 hours of an average day, and
Satisfied: Yes No
2. The combined vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle volume entering the
intersection from the minor street approaches (total of both approaches)
averages at least 200 units per hour for the same 8 hours, with an average
delay to minor-street vehicular traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle
during the highest hour, but
Satisfied: Yes No
3. If the 85-percentile approach speed of the major-street traffic exceeds 65
km/h or exceeds 40 mph, the minimum vehicular volume warrants are 70
percent of the above values.
Satisfied: Yes No
D. Where no single criterion is satisfied, but where Criteria B, C.1, and C.2 are all
satisfied 80 percent of the minimum values. Criterion C.3 is excluded fr~~his
condition. ,Satisfied: Yes No ~
VOLUME WORKSHEET Hours
Guideline
" 7-8A / 8-9A /12-1 P/ 1-2P/ 3-4P/4-5P/ 5-6P/6-7P / AVG
(1) Total Volume 300 (210) [855] [1013][803] [749] [756] [932][1134] [1039] 910
(2) Combined Vol. 200 (140) [ 59 ] [ 62 ] [ 54 ] [ 53 ] [ 69 ] [ 66 ] [ 68 ] [ 64 ] 62
NOTE: Combined volume includes a conservative assumption of 50 peds and bikes entering the
intersection for each of the 8 hours.
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~'zty a~"R~~er~aerrd
31119 ~'V..Prvspect .1>'ose~eur~ CA 9177D b2~ ~8~=73118 -
Tra#Fc Commissioner H~ll_y Knapp
City of Rosemead
8&38:L. Valley Blvd
Rosemead, Ca 9 i 77U
June 7, 2(348
Dear Gornrrrissioner Knapp,
I am sut~mittii~g the enclosed letter to you which l received Phis week from 1VIr. Armando
Najera, residirr~; at X82& ~Talnut Grove .Ave. FIe is very concerned about the inability tc>
safely cress t~alnut Crrove and that the drivers do not lic7nor the fact: that all intersections
are cresswalls. I ain he,-c:by requesting on his behalfthat you. agendi~e this request. for
your next tra.£tic commission. meeting.:i would hope that should a crosswalk without a
stop sign or :signal be warranted that the staff cciuld recommend the stz'iped crosswalk and
t7ashing signs or ether measures that make crosswalks safer, as I feel tlae traditional
~:rossu~°alk with no signal, stop. sign, 6r other means i~t'alertng drivers~;ive the pedestrian
a false sense of security- in the face. ofthe ever increasing problem of distracted drivers.
't'hank you very much far your consideration.
Sincerely,.
~~
ivlargaret Clark,
Councilwa:an, City of:Kosertzead
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ATTACHMENT B
ROSEMEAD TRAFFIC COMMISSION
SEPTEMBER 4. 2008
DRAFT
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.
PLEDGE OF ALLIGIANCE
INVOCATION
ROLL CALL
Present:
Absent:
1. PRESENTATION
- Commissioner Deary
- Commissioner Lewin
Chairperson Knapp, Commissioners Deary and Lewin
None
A. Oath of Office -Howard Masuda and Joanne Russell.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of June 26, 2008
Corrections suggested by Commissioner Lewin: Page 1,."Hunter" should be deleted as
a "Yes" vote for Approval of Minutes. Page 2, under Mr. Todd Kunioka, 1St sentence,
Mr. Kunioka's name is incorrectly spelled. Change T to K. Page 5, under
Commissioner Reports, 3~d paragraph: add the word "sign" after "loading zone."
It was moved by Vice Chairperson Masuda, seconded by Commissioner Lewin to
accept and approve the amended minutes of June 26, 2008.
Vote Results:
Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairperson Masuda and
Commissioner Lewin.
Noes: None
Abstain: Commissioners Deary and Russell.
Minutes of July 17, 2008
Corrections suggested by Commissioner Lewin: Page 3, number 7, 1St paragraph, add
to end of paragraph: Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki suggested a study session.
It was moved by Commissioner Lewin, seconded by Commissioner Deary to accept and
approve the amended minutes of July 17, 2008.
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 Page 1
Jl:mec (06160)17470/1002/Min03
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DRAFT
Vote Results:
Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairperson Masuda, Commissioners
Deary and Lewin.
Noes: None
Abstain: Commissioner Russell.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE -NONE
4. OLD BUSINESS
A. WALNUT GROVE AVENUE/HALKETT AVENUE -Request for Crosswalk on
Walnut Grove Avenue
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki presented the staff report.
Recommendation
It is staff's recommendation that no striping or traffic control modifications be made to
the intersection of Walnut Grove Avenue and Halkett Avenue.
If is staff's recommendation that the Traffic Commission recommends the' City Council
approve the installation of white raised pavement markers (RPMs) behind the existing
edge lines on Walnut Grove Avenue in the immediate vicinity of the start of the blocks
between Grand Avenue and Mission Drive.
Discussion
Speaking before the Commission:
Ms. Linda Kilpatrick
4716 Walnut Grove
Rosemead, CA
Petitioned for white line years ago that resulted in a "drunk line" being installed.
Northbound scar marks on the trees indicate the number of accidents over the years.
She has personally. seen numerous accidents during the past 35 years. Many years
ago 1Nalnut Grove became an alternate route for trucks. She will not take her grandson
across that intersection without protection. She would rather cross midblock than cross
at that intersection.
Chairperson Knapp asked if the edge line helped? Ms. Kilpatrick stated it helped
minimally. It is a fast street. Has to wait a long time to exit driveway.
Commissioner Russell asked if Ms. Kilpatrick has spoken with any of her neighbors, if
there are any other concerns. Ms, Kilpatrick stated she received notice of this topic and
wanted to be here, but she has not talked with any of her neighbors about this. She
does know that ,her next-door neighbor will transport her son in the car rather than let
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4', 2008 Page 2
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DRAFT
him walk across the street. Ms. Kilpatrick uses the mailbox a lot and it is heavily used in
the morning because there is less traffic.
Commissioner Dreary, asked about when accidents occur. Ms. Kilpatrick responded
they occur at various times of day and night, maybe 4 accidents per year.
Chairperson Knapp asked Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki if the speed limit could be
dropped from 40 to 35.
Traffic Engineering Deputy explained that speed limits are determined by a study that is
completed every 7 to 10 years. She explained the areas of the study: speed survey,
accident history, volume of traffic, and other factors not readily apparent to the motorist.
All these items factor in to the determination of the posted speed limit.
Ms. Kilpatrick stated perhaps the speed limit should be lowered. The crossing guard at
Walnut Grove for Shuey School is of no help, he is not doing his job.
Commissioner Russell asked Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki about the current staff
report. She sees the recommendations and explanations of why something cannot be
done but wonders about the negatives of not doing something.
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated that in her experience money has never been
an issue with the City with regards to traffic safety. She presented possible scenarios
for the items discussed in the report. She added that maybe a curve warning sign could
be installed, in addition to a flashing yellow light above the sign.
Speaking before the Commission
Salvador Dela Cruz
Earle Street
Mr. Dela Cruz wished to speak about speeding on Earle. School is started and it is very
dangerous with no sidewalks. Would like to see speed bumps.
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki explained history of speed humps and that staff has
not-been given any other direction from the City.
Mr. DeLa Cruz was told that the topic would come up at the next Commission meeting
and he will receive notification.
Regarding Ms. Kilpatrick's concerns, Vice Chairperson Masuda concurred with her.
There is more traffic and speeding, plus motorcycles, at all times of the day. RPMs will
help. Residents know the safest time to cross the street. When roadway was repaved,
edge lines seemed to narrow the `parking' lane. His car doesn't quite fit. Even small,
compact cars stick out beyond the edge line.
Chairperson Knapp suggested the markers on the edge line be placed on the roadway
side of the edge line.
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 Page 3
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DRAFT
Commissioner Deary suggested it might. not be within the jurisdiction of the Traffic
Commission, but with regard to the crossing guard at Walnut Grove and Wells/Edmond,
perhaps the guard could be given a warning. Also, perhaps the mailbox could be
moved to Grand so the people won't have to cross the street to go to the mailbox.
People are crossing the street just to use the mailbox, so perhaps it can be moved.
Deputy Public Works Director Marcarello indicated that the City does administer the
crossing guards and he will talk to the crossing guard at Walnut Grove and
Wells/Edmond.
Commissioner Lewin asked about the location of the curve warning sign. Traffic
Engineering Deputy Itagaki responded that will be staffs recommendation and the
location will be appropriate as to the distance from Mission. Commissioner Lewin asked
if it would be appropriate to widen the white strip area. Chairperson Knapp stated that
that issue has been addressed with the dots being placed on the outside and that the
line would be resized the next time the street is resurfaced. Commissioner Lewin
suggested it might be many many years before repaving or resurfacing. Chairperson
Knapp suggested that moving the dots closer to traffic lanes is a good solution for right
now.
There was discussion regarding the distance along Mission of the raised pavement
markers.
Motion
Chairperson Knapp motioned that the Traffic Commission recommends the City Council
approve the installation of a curve warning sign with a flashing yellow beacon on Walnut
Grove Avenue north and south of Halkett Avenue.
The Traffic Commission further recommends the installation of white raised pavement
markers in front of the existing edgelines on Walnut Grove Avenue between Grand
Avenue and Mission Drive.
Commissioner Lewin suggested the motion be amended to include a recommendation
that staff look into the appropriate speed limit. After discussion he withdrew his
amended motion.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Deary.
Vote Results:
Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Commissioners Deary, Lewin, and Russell
Noes: None
Abstain: Vice Chairperson Masuda
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 ~ Page 4
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Commissioner Lewin stated that when he visited the intersection of Grand and Walnut
Grove he noticed that the STOP markings in the street need repainting. Deputy Public
Works Director Marcarello indicated he would see to it that the markings get repainted.
5. NEW BUSINESS
A. JACKSON AVENUE/GARVALIA AVENUE -Request for Stop Signs on
Jackson Avenue
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki presented the staff report.
Recommendation
It is staff's recommendation that stop signs not be installed on Jackson Avenue at
Garvalia Avenue.
It is staff's recommendation that the Traffic Commission recommends the City Council
approve the installation of advance warning intersection signs on Jackson Avenue at
Garvalia Avenue.
It is further recommended by staff that the Traffic Commission recommends the City
Council direct staff to determine other possible funding sources for the installation of
speed feed back signs.
Discussion
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated a fax letter was received from Pamela Wark
dated March 31, 2008, and one dated February 25, 2008, from Wei-Ying Ng.
Commissioner Lewin stated it appears there were two accidents in 2007 as evidenced
by copy of accident reports included in Wei-Ying Ng's letter. Traffic Engineering Deputy
Itagaki stated it is difficult to determine from the Report Memo where the accident
happened, and that perhaps they were not included in the query used for this analysis.
The staff's query for accidents is for a specific distance from the intersection so she is
unable to address this issue specifically.
Commissioner Russell stated she lives near this intersection and that it is scary. There
are lots of pedestrians, residents walking along the street. From northbound Graves to
Garvey there are not many stop signs, one stop at Fern. Eastbound Garvalia,
southwest corner house has 7 foot hedge. If a car is parked there visibility is extremely
limited. Westbound Garvalia, a wrought iron gate (6 foot) is installed and if a car is
parked there visibility is limited. Curb corners could be painted red but that would upset
the residents because they wouldn't be able to park in front of their homes.
Commissioner Deary stated it is a difficult intersection. The vertical curve makes people
want to speed.
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 Page 5
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DRAFT
Chairperson Knapp asked if we can ask for the hedges to be reduced? Chris
Marcarello, Deputy Public Works Director, will check.
Commissioner Lewin stated westbound is very difficult, visibility is difficult. Would
support installing the intersection warning sign. Stops sign are trickier because of the
side streets.
Commissioner Russell stated she believes the intersection warrants a stop sign. She
pointed out that speeding was minimized along Graves because of the multiple stop
signs. A stop sign would slow down the traffic before entering the hill and a stop sign at
Garvailia and Jcakson would force a stop at the top of the incline. If the City is unable
to resolve the visibility issues, stop signs are the only alternative.
Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated that the California Manual on Uniform Traffic
Control Devices allows the use of stop signs when visibility of conflicting traffic is limited.
In this case, visibility problems are caused by fences and vegetation on private property.
Motion
Commissioner Russell motioned and Commissioner Deary seconded that the Traffic
Commission rejects staff recommendation. The Traffic Commission recommends the
City Council approve the installation of stop signs on Jackson Avenue at Garvalia
Avenue creating afour-way Stop intersection. This recommendation is made based on
the limited visibility caused by Jackson Avenue's vertical curve and location of fences at
the intersection.
Vote Results:
Yes: Chairperson Knapp, Vice Chairperson Masuda, Commissioners Deary,
Hunter and Lewin.
Noes:
Abstain:
6. STAFF REPORTS
Chris Marcarello, Deputy Public Works Director, reported that the Rush, Angeles and
Delta item presented by Kimley-Horn will come back in October and from there go to the
Council. The Council also approved the Blue Curb policy that the Traffic Commission
had recommended.
7. COMMISSIONER REPORTS
Commissioner Deary had no report.
Commissioner Lewin welcomed Commissioner Russell and Vice Chairperson Masuda.
Regarding Mission and Ivar and the previous decision by the Commission to wait until
school commenced to perform a study of the crosswalk, he asked when the study would
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 Page 6
Jl:mec (06160)17470l1002/Min03
DRAFT
be completed. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated the count would probably take
place late September; and will be back before the Commission in November.
Commissioner Lewin asked if prior notification of the study could be given so that
Commissioners could observe. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki stated yes. She
made a request that prior to leaving tonight's meeting that the Commissioners give her
the best way to contact them.
Regarding the Commission's request for potential studies list sent to the Council,
Commissioner Lewin asked if the budget has been passed and finalized. Mr.
Marcarello stated it has been. Commissioner Lewin asked if at this point some of the
studies could be done. Mr. Marcarello stated he has the list and perhaps he should
bring it back to be looked at with the new Commissioners and the caveat that there is
somewhat limited funds and not every single thing can be looked it. When it comes
back the Commission will need fo pick and choose. Commissioner Lewin asked if it
would be possible to have it for the next meeting and Mr. Marcarello stated yes.
Vice Chairperson Masuda stated he is glad to be back and also welcomed
Commissioner Russell. With regard to speeding, especially north/south streets, long
blocks, he believes this an issue that will continue to come up and wonders what
options there are, if there is a creative way to address the problem. Also, he has
noticed there are more and more street lane lines, crosswalks and curb markings that
need to be .repainted. Mr. Marcarello stated the Public Works Department handles this
and he will notify Mr.-Bill Ornelas if the Commissioners will give him a list. .
Chairperson Knapp addressed Walnut Grove and Ramona. The southbound left turn
lane extension is needed and wants to know when it will happen. Also concerned about
potholes, specifically at freeway offramp at Hellman. Another one at Garvey and Earle
at the car wash. Mr. Marcarello stated the Hellman location is on a list. Commissioners
can make note of various locations and give the list to him.
A form was suggested to list concerns. Traffic Engineering Deputy Itagaki will prepare
one and place in their mailboxes.
Commissioner Russell thanked Commissioners for the welcome. She concurred with
Vice Chairperson Masuda about speeding and speed bumps. During election time she
walked with her mother and many people talked about speed bumps, especially
between Garvey and Walnut Grove, San. Gabriel and Rosemead Place. Also, at San
Gabriel and Garvey, the CVS store. She is concerned with the exit at San Gabriel
Boulevard; shoppers will leave that exit and try to make a left, yet it is adouble-double
yellow line, and people coming out from Diamond Square also trying to make a left. It is
really bad and heavily congested. Need to prevent this turn maneuver. (Name of
drugstore corrected to Walgreens.)
Rosemead Traffic Commission Meeting September 4, 2008 Page 7
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DRAFT
8. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was
adjourned until October 2, 2008, at 7:00 p.m.
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