1998-01-14 Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MEMO TO: Jim March, City Administrator Centerville City Council FROM: Troy Bonkowske, Intern Alumni DATE: 1/8/98 RE: Flashing lights for school crosswalk FINDINGS I spoke with Jane Pemble from the Anoka County Transportation Department earlier today about the traffic study completed late last month on Main Street and Progress Road. The traffic study was conducted between the times of 8:00 -9:00 a.m. and 3:30 4:30 p.m. and focused on gaps of traffic for a period of fifty (50) seconds. In addition, the numbers of students crossing the street were taken in consideration. Results from the study indicated gaps of traffic more than sufficient for crossing and doesn't meet warrants for flashing lights. Simply put, the County will not participate in the direct funding for flashing lights at this time. However, the City can ask the County to conduct another traffic study in the spring. The final written report will be sent to the City in a week or two. Interestingly, Ms. Pemble quickly pointed out that the City can still join the school district with the installation of flashing lights. If this does occur, Anoka County would be willing to enter into a joint powers agreement with Centerville for the maintenance of the lights, but the City would need to pay approximately $6.00 a month electricity charge. Finally, Ms. Pemble stated the County will continue work removing clutter on the public right -of- way near the crosswalk. These visibility improvements should be completed in the next few weeks. Mike Hughes from the Centennial School District and I spoke this afternoon and said he wasn't surprised the County won't help pay for the lights. With the study completed, however, he can now ask the County for engineering specifications and get approval for the light installation. Meanwhile, Mr. Hughes can present the flashing lights to the School Board for funding before the Hazardous Committee meets in April. He doubts full funding could come before April, but we discussed the possibility of a cost - sharing plan. If the City Council seriously wants to push this through quickly, the City could pick up half the cost now and be reimbursed after the Hazardous Committee meets. The total cost should be approximately $3,000 and the City's portion would be $1,500.00. Of course, this type of agreement would need to be in writing. Finally, Mr. Hughes stated the installation of the lights could be completed within six to eight weeks. Since my last day is Friday, I provided Mike with all of my relevant materials and told him that Jim will be the main contact on this issue in the future.