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HomeMy WebLinkAbout042601 PTS Minutes MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION APRIL 26, 2001 CALL TO ORDER The City of Temecula Public/Traffic Safety Commission convened in a regular meeting at 6:00 P.M., on Thursday, April 26, 2001, in the City Council Chambers of Temecula City Hall, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. FLAG SALUTE The audience was led in the Flag salute by Commissioner Lanier. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Coe, Connerton, Katan, Lanier, and Chairwoman Edwards. Absent: None. Also Present: Director of Public Works Hughes, Senior Engineer Moghadam, Associate Engineer Gonzalez, Community Service Officer Fanene, Police Officer Nelson, Administrative Secretary Pyle, and Minute Clerk Hansen. PRESENTATIONS Temecula Police Department Presentat on re.qardinR the Storefront Operations\Community Services Officer Lynn Fanene Providing an overview of the Temecula Police Department's Storefront Operations, Community Service Officer Fanene noted that the first Storefront Operation opened in April of 1997 at the Target Shopping Center, and that two years later the second storefront was opened in Old Town; relayed that the hours of operation ara from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, advising that each storefront was staffed with a Community Service Officer and a part-time employee from the Riverside Office of Aging; apprised the Public/Traffic Safety Commission of the various services and functions of the storefronts, as follows: walk-in reports are taken (i.e., stolen property, loss of a juvenile), tickets are signed off (i.e., broken headlight citations), RV permits are issued, solicitor's permits are issued, juvenile counseling is provided, fingerprinting is provided, ride-along applications are processed, and crime prevention and Neighborhood Watch information is provided; offering the following statistics noted that in the year 2000 the Temecula storefronts served 3,239 customers, took 466 reports, fingerprinted 998 customers, issued 40 solicitor permits, collected 163 VICR and Repossession fees, issued 101 RV permits, and signed-off 104 citations; and R;~t r affi crninut es\g42601 I anticipating the annexation of Vail Ranch, relayed that the Police Department is seeking a third storefront to be located in the vicinity of Highway 79(South)/Margarita Road. Commissioner Coe relayed that he was pleased to be informed regarding the future 3~d storefront operation. Temecula Fire Department Presentation reRardinq County Emerqency Medical Services Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Pre,qram County Emerqency Medical Service Officer Myron Relaying that recently Councilman Naggar requested staff to investigate the Public Access Defibrillation (PAD) Program, City Fire Chief Howard Windsor advised that this program has caught attention nationwide, noting that at this time the program was in the testing phase in the County of Riverside, relaying that users would be sought to be a party to the program in order for the benefits of the program to be further investigated; and introduced Ms. Myron, from County Emergency Medical Services who runs this program and would provide additional information to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. Advising that cardiac arrest and cardiovascular disease are the Number One killers in the Unites States (i.e., killing 1 million people a year), Ms. Myron relayed that half of those individuals died suddenly and did not make it to a hospital emergency room; noted the goal to aid in increasing the survivability rates; advised that the PAD Program was an international program funded by the National Institute of Health, relaying that there is no charge for participants; noted that Riverside was the largest county involved in the program, relaying that the program would be implemented in 40 areas; clarified that it was designed to enable a layperson to better affect survivability rates in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests; specified the details of the operation of the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) which delivers an electrical shock, advising that each minute that passes after an individual collapses there is a ten percent (10%) increase in mortality, noting the goal to provide the equipment to lay responders (i.e., the public) in order to affect an increase in survivability which will be studied; provided data to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission regarding how the equipment works, as well as letters of support from various agencies, the American Heart Association Guidelines, and other information; relayed the provision of free training and face masks; demonstrated how the equipment works, noting the simple operation which provides audio instructions aloud for the responder; advised that the study has revealed a great increase in survivability, which rose from one percent (1%) to approximately seventy-five percent (75%); and clarified that the study was being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness when utilized by laypersons. City Fire Chief Windsor relayed the intent to provide this equipment to high assembly occupancies (i.e., Guidant, the Mall, the Senior Center, the CRC, and City Hall.) Commissioner Connerton advised that this was an excellent program, relaying hopes of success. In response to Commissioner Coe, Ms. Myron relayed that at a future point in time this equipment could potentially be made available for households, while noting the high costs and training involved. At this time Chairwoman Edwards invited Councilman Pratt to come forward to the podium in order for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission and the audience to sing Happy Birthday in celebration of his 82nd birthday which was today. PUBLIC COMMENTS No comments. COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR '1. Minutes of February 22, 2001 RECOMMENDATION: 1.1 Approve the Minutes of February 22, 2001. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 1. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Lanier and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Katan who abstained. COMMISSION BUSINESS 2. Nei.qhborhood Traffic Calminq Pro.qram - Muirfield Drive RECOMMENDATION: 2.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission implement Stage 1 of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, which may include establishing a date to hold a workshop/meeting with the Muirfield Drive area residents. Commissioner Coe advised that he would be abstaining with regard to this item. Noting the request received at the March 22, 2001 meeting to study the feasibility of installing traffic control devices to reduce the speed of traveling vehicles on Muirfield Drive (west of Pala Road), Senior Engineer Moghadam provided the staff report (of record); relayed staff's observations in the area, as follows: Muir-field Drive was a relatively short residential collector, the posted speed limit was 25 MPH, and the speeds and volumes appeared to be normal based on the characteristics of the street; clarified that no traffic control devices (i.e., stop signs, or speed undulations) appeared to be warranted to control the perceived speeding or volume impacts; and that based on those observations staff's recommendation was for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to direct the Police Department to implement Stage I of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP) which would include placement of the radar trailer, continued enforcement of the existing speed limits, and there could be consideration to install signage indicating the fine for a speed violation. In response to Commissioner Lanier, Officer Nelson relayed that the Neighborhood Officer has been spending additional time in this neighborhood, noting that today during R;\t r afficminut es\042601 3 a 45-minute period there had been no violators; and advised that the speed trailers have been placed in this area. Mr. Warren Knox, 44885 Muirfield Drive, relayed thanks to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission for consideration of his previous request, noting gratitude specifically for the placement of the radar trailers and the increased enforcement, advising that he sited a difference in driving patterns with the Police presence and the radar trailers; confirmed that the traffic in this neighborhood was normal ninety-five percent (95%) of the time, clarifying that when there was a special activity at the park, or on a Saturday in the late evening there would be unusual volumes and speeds of vehicles, noting that this created a hazard due to children playing in an area which was typically safe; specified that he had a petition (which was submitted to staff) representing 23 signatures of the 24 residents contacted out of the 35 total residents residing on this street who supported the implementation of Phase I and 2 of the NTCP, advising that the neighbors expressed appreciation for the Police presence and the radar trailer; and reiterated gratitude for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's efforts. For Commissioner Connerton, Mr. Knox specified that the petition denoted the support of implementation of Phase 1 and 2 of the NTCP on Muirfield Drive. In response to Chairwoman Edwards, Senior Engineer Moghadam confirmed that this was a City street. Commissioner Connerton, echoed by Commissioner Katan, Commissioner Lanier, and Chairwoman Edwards, noted his support of implementing Stage 1 of the NTCP. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to approve staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Lanier and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who abstained. 3. Request for Multi-Way Stop Si.qn - Promenade Chardonnay Hills RECOMMENDATION: 3.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission deny the request for installation of Multi-Way Stop Signs on Promenade Chardonnay Hills and recommend implementation of Stage 1 of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. Commissioner Lanier advised that he would be abstaining from this item. Via overhead maps and statistical data, Senior Engineer Moghadam presented the staff report (via agenda material), noting the residential concern regarding speeds and volumes on Promenade Chardonnay Hills; relayed that this street was a 44-foot residential collector, providing access to several residential dwelling units; and specified the area where the volume count data was collected, noting that after the opening of Meadows Parkway the volumes have decreased substantially in this area per the data collected prior to, and after, the opening of Meadows Parkway. Apprising the Public/Traffic Safety Commission and the community residents, Associate Engineer Gonzales presented the comparison data regarding the before and after R;~afficr~nutes\042601 4 volumes in this neighborhood associated with the opening of Meadows Parkway which revealed that some of the traffic is being diverted to Meadows Parkway. Based on the number of dwelling units in this neighborhood, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that the volumes are reasonable, clarifying that there is no evidence of substantial cut-through traffic; advised that the speed limits are not posted, relaying that while some segments have not been accepted as City streets, if it was the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's desire, speed limit signs could be installed; additionally noted that speed surveys were conducted, noting that the 85th percentile of speeds traveled were approximately 32 MPH; clarified that stop signs have been ineffective when installed in other similar locations, providing additional information; with respect to the installation of speed undulations, relayed that certain criteria has to be met prior to this installation, advising that this area does not warrant the installation of speed undulations, noting that due to the configuration of the roadway this installation could be dangerous; based on the data, reiterated that the warrants had not been met for installation of either speed undulations, or stop signs; and relayed that staff was recommending continued police enforcement, use of the radar trailer, and if the HOA had the means to distribute a letter to all the residents indicating the need to observe the speed limits, this would also be encouraged, Associate Engineer Gonzales relaying the other recommendations which were to post the 25 MPH speed limit signs where appropriate, and to place signage posting fines. In response to Commissioner Connerton, Officer Nelson noted that the Neighborhood Officer had been working in the Promenade Chardonnay Hills area, as well as on Meadows Parkway, issuing citations; and queried staff as to whether Promenade Chardonnay Hills was a dedicated street at this time, noting the impacts associated with issuing radar citations on areas that were not dedicated, clarifying that the citations were not valid. Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that to the best of his knowledge segments of Promenade Chardonnay Hills were still not dedicated; advised that if the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommends installation of the 25 MPH speed limit signs in the areas where there are homes fronting Promenade Chardonnay Hills, then that would establish a prima facie speed limit which would be enforceable, relaying that it was his understanding (based on reading the Vehicle Code) that the lack of having streets accepted for maintenance would not restrict the enforcement of the prima facie speed limits, advising that staff would investigate; and for Chairwoman Edwards, confirmed that the 25 MPH speed limit (in areas with homes fronting Promenade Chardonnay Hills) was based on the 85th percentile of vehicle speeds in this area. Officer Nelson recommended posting the 25 MPH speed limit signage in the areas where the criteria is met, and posting end of 25 MPH zone signage in the areas where it was not met. Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that in lieu of the end of 25 MPH speed limit zone signage, signage could be placed representing the speed limit legally justified for that portion of roadway which would be 35 MPH on portions of this street; and confirmed that if the analysis does not justify the posted speed limits, tickets could be dismissed. Commissioner Coe suggested that the placement of 25-MPH speed limit signage in the areas where it was justified might effectively aid in slowing the speeds on the other segments of this roadway. For Chairwoman Edwards, Senior Engineer Moghadam clarified that it was not necessary to place signage stating end of 25 MPH zone, advising that signage denoting the appropriate speed limit for that segment could installed; for Commissioner Coe, relayed that it would not be illegal to solely place the 25 MPH signage where appropriate and not signage where that speed limit was not justified; in response to Commissioner Katan, confirmed that the intersections in this area did not meet the criteria for installation of stop signs, even prior to the opening of Meadows Parkway; and for Commissioner Coe, advised that the traffic count data is now being collected over a 7- day period, advising that the locations and days of the week for this particular before and after study were identical. The following individuals relayed their concerns regarding the volumes and speeds of vehicles on Promenade Chardonnay Hills: Mr. Joe LaMarca Mr. Donald Smith MS. Patricia French Ms. Core Cocca Mr. Alex Cocca (child) 41138 Promenade Chardonnay Hills 41209 Promenade Chardonnay Hills 41215 Promenade Chardonnay Hills 41132 Promenade Chardonnay Hills 41132 Promenade Chardonnay Hills The above-mentioned individuals relayed the following comments regarding their concerns: Disagreed with staff's comments, specifically with respect to the significant reduction in volumes after the opening of Meadows Parkway. Noted the need for stop signs at the school bus pick-up spots (i.e., Promenade Chardonnay Hills/Chemin Clinet, and Promenade Chardonnay Hills/Chemin Margaux) for safety reasons, relaying that recently there was an auto accident at one of these intersections. Relayed concern regarding the curvature of the road, specifically at the corner of Chemin La Tache, creating a blind spot for the residents' view of the approaching vehicles. · Advised that citations have been issued to speed violators in this area. With respect to the installation of stop signs, noted that the majority of the residents would be in favor of the installation. · Promenade Chardonnay Hills was utilized for cut-through traffic. Additional homes and the future church use being developed will worsen the traffic impacts. Queried why the speed limits were based on the 85th percentile of speeds driven rather than mandating the safest speed. Relayed the noise impacts due to the high speeds and volumes of vehicles. · While noting the effectiveness of Police presence, advised that the radar trailers were completely ineffective. Relayed the difficulties for the residents to access the street from their driveways. · Concurred with posting the 25-MPH speed limit signs. Noted hopes of this matter being resolved prior to an individual being injured due to the safety issues at hand. Advised that it was hazardous for children to play in their own front yards, and for residents to access their mailboxes, specifically proximate to the blind curves in the roadway. Offered to collect signatures from all the neighbors outlining the overwhelming support for the installation of stop signs. For Commissioner Connerton and Commissioner Coe, Mr. LaMarca noted that he was opposed to staff comments due to the following: relayed that the majority of the residents would be in favor of the placement of stop signs, and that a 20% reduction in volumes was not significant in his opinion, advising that a significant reduction would be a reduction over 50%; and reiterated his concern regarding the development of additional homes, and a future church with a 725 car parking lot which would further impact traffic in this area. In response to Mr. LaMarca's comments, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that the future church use was required to conduct a traffic study, noting that less than 100 vehicles (on Sunday) were anticipated to travel through Promenade Chardonnay Hills, advising that their direct access is Butterfield Stage Road; relayed that on Heitz Lane there was a reduction in volumes of almost 50% after the opening of Meadows Parkway; with respect to safety issues regarding the children at the school bus stops, advised that the school buses' red flashing lights require vehicles to stop at the location of the bus stop; noted that neighboring developments utilizing Promenade Chardonnay Hills, as designed to do so, were not considered cut-through traffic, even if the tract was part of another subdivision, relaying that the volumes in this area were not high. In response, Mr. LaMarca advised that stop signs installed on Promenade Chardonnay Hills would improve safety and the quality of life in the neighborhood. Clarifying that legislature established the standards for setting speed limits, for Mr. Smith Senior Engineer Moghadam provided the rationale for determining the speed limit which was based on the approximate 85 h percentile of speeds traveled (per the Vehicle Code); relayed the specific criteria warranting a 25 MPH prima facie speed limit; provided additional information regarding the studies conducted, reiterating that if the speed limits were not justified (per the criteria regulations) the citations could be dismissed; and concurred with Mr. Smith, noting that certain segments of the road could be posted at 25 MPH. Concluding his comments, Mr. Smith relayed that rather than commenting on how individuals do not stop at stop signs and providing this fact as part of the rationale for not installing the control devices, that the City should focus on enforcement. For Ms. Cocca, Chairwoman Edwards provided assurance that Butterfield Stage Road would go through in the very near future, potentially in two years; and noted that the future church use's application was not active at this time. In response to the residents' comments, Commissioner Connerton relayed that if an area is posted improperly (regarding speed limits) the citations can be dismissed; with respect to stop signs, noted the recent temporary installation of stop signs in the Via Cordoba area in an attempt to control speed, clarifying that the studies have proven that this control device is completely ineffective in controlling speed, additional noting the ineffectiveness of the stop signs placed on Calle Medusa; and advised that there has been great success with the NTCP, noting that Stage 1 of this program will be very effective in this area. Concurring with staff's recommendation, and Commissioner Connerton's comments, Commissioner Katan reiterated the past effectiveness of implementing the NTCP, advising that, additionally, implementation of the Stage 2 Keep Kids Alive, Drive 25 Program at a future point would be successful. Empathizing with the residents' concerns, Commissioner Coe provided a brief history of other neighborhoods with similar issues regarding the perception of vehicles speeding through their neighborhood; advised that he drove through this neighborhood 10 times since receiving the agenda material, noting that while a few individuals may be using this area as a cut-through, it would not be the easiest access route; recommended that children play in the parks, advising that allowing a child to play near a busy street would be placing the child in jeopardy, noting that at his own home, his son's friends come down to his home to play due to the cul-de-sac being safer; relayed that as the City grows, residents should anticipate increases in traffic; and noted that he would support solely placing the 25 MPH speed limit signage, where appropriate, advising that it may slow speeds in other segments of the road. In response to the Commission's comments, Mr. Robert House, resident of Promenade Chardonnay Hills, residing on Placer Belair, clarified that these residents did not knowingly purchase a home on a busy street; relayed that the residents were shown maps with Meadows Parkway and Butter[ield Stage Road going through which would prevent cut-through traffic in their neighborhood; noted that if the City does not approve the Roripaugh Hills Project, Butterfield Stage Road will not be opened; provided additional information regarding the future church use's access plans; and with respect to the speed trailer placed on Promenade Chardonnay Hills, advised that the speeds were not being displayed during four of the days the unit was out there. Noting that she lived on a street in Temecula where the speed limit was 60 MPH, Chairwoman Edwards advised that she did not allow her children to play in the front yard; noted her strong support of solely posting the 25 MPH speed limit signs; relayed the typical volumes in this neighborhood, noting that at this time the existing volumes were far below the anticipated volumes based on the number of residential dwellings in this area; provided additional information regarding the tract configuration, designed for the side streets to utilize Promenade Chardonnay Hills for access; and clarified that if stop signs were effective, she would support placing the device in every neighborhood. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to approve staff's recommendation which was to deny the request for the multi-way stop signs on Promenade Chardonnay Hills at the requested locations, and to recommend the implementation of Stage 1 of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program which includes increased enforcement, the use of a radar trailer, and the installation of speed limit signs; and moved to additionally recommend the installation of signage posting the $181 fine for speeding. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Lanier who abstained. For the residents' information, Chairwoman Edwards clarified the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's recommendation regarding this neighborhood. Commissioner Connerton advised Officer Nelson to relay to Police Sergeant DiMaggio the importance of expeditiously increasing enforcement in this area due to the expressed comments from the residents regarding issues of safety. 4. Request for Nei.qhborhood Traffic Calmin,q - Temeku Drive RECOMMENDATION: 4.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission: 1. Recommend that the City Council adopt an Ordinance establishing speed zones on Temeku Drive and Honors Drive; 2. Direct the Police Department to enfome the newly established speed limit including use of the radar speed trailer. Senior Engineer Moghadam presented the staff report (of record), noting that on Temeku Drive there are currently three-four fronting homes, and approximately eleven more to be built, ergo, the 25 MPH prima facie speed limit was not an option; with respect to cut-through traffic, via overheads, relayed that the data revealed that at two of the three locations studied volumes decreased after the opening of Meadows parkway, providing the traffic count data, advising that this area would not be a short cut for vehicles to use as a cut-through, reiterating the definition for cut-through traffic; with respect to speeds in this area, provided a brief history of the area during development, noting that the developer installed signs indicating speed limits, advising that at this point in time those speed limits were unjustified; via overhead statistical data, presented the speed information, concurring with the residents' comments that vehicles are traveling faster than the posted limits (which are not justifiable limits), advising that the justified speed limits would be 40 MPH on a portion of Temeku Hills up to Royal Birkdale Drive, and from this point to Margarita Road a 35 MPH limit would be justified, based on prevailing speeds, accident history, and roadway conditions; clarified that any speed limits posted below those speeds would create difficulties with enforcement; advised that stop signs are not warranted, and that the speed limits, based on the traffic engineering study, should be posted; and noted staff's recommendation, that Stage 1 of the NTCP be implemented. For Commissioner Connerton, Associate Engineer Gonzales specified the portion of Temeku Drive which was not dedicated, noting the portions of Honors Drive that have not been accepted for use by the City, clarifying that neither Honors Drive nor Temeku Drive had been accepted at this time; and confirmed that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission had previously recommended the placement of a stop sign in this area. In response to Commissioner Coe, Senior Engineer Moghadam confirmed that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission could make a recommendation for a speed limit on a road that was not dedicated; for Commissioner Katan, noted that it was a better situation if a street was accepted by the City prior to implementing any recommendation, while relaying the City's efforts to aid in ensuring the safety of residents traveling in this area, noting the City's efforts to expedite the acceptance process; and clarified that the stop sign had been installed due to the safety issues at hand. Providing additional information, Chairwoman Edwards noted her discussions with Dr. Wedel regarding the concerns in this neighborhood, noting that she appealed to the City Council and staff for aid in addressing these concerns, noting that since the streets were not dedicated the residents had no other recourse; and relayed a brief history of the development construction in this area. For Commissioner Lanier, Officer Nelson advised that the Police cannot enforce the posted speeds in this area, noting that the citations could be contested due to the lack of supporting analysis, and the streets not being dedicated. In response to Commissioner Coe, Chairwoman Edwards relayed that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's efforts would be to establish a speed limit tonight, and to discuss recommendations for enforcing that limit. The following individuals relayed their concerns regarding traffic in the Temeku Drive area: Dr. MarkWedel Ms. MaryWedel Ms. Joanna O'Neill Mr. Michael O'Neill Mr. James Dent Mr. Bill Miner 41522 Temeku Drive 41522 Temeku Drive 41504 Temeku Drive 41504 Temeku Drive 41791 Cascades Court 41832 Cascades Court The above-mentioned individuals noted the following comments regarding the Temeku Drive area: · Relayed that the primary concern was speeding, and not volumes of vehicles. · Noted the traffic impacts generated from the clubhouse. Advised that there was limited visibility (i.e., blind corners) due to the configuration of the street. Recommended not posting a speed limit higher than 30 MPH. Noted that vehicles were seen traveling at high speeds which created a situation where crossing the street to access mailboxes was unsafe. Relayed a fear that an individual would be hurt on this street if the speeding issue is not addressed. Queried the setting of a speed limit, advising that the speed violators appear to be accommodated by setting the limits based on the 85~ percentile of speeds traveled analysis utilized for setting the speed limits, advising that enforcement should be increased to maintain the current limits. Noted the permitting of golf carts which should contribute to the rationale for a lower speed limit, referencing the Vehicle Code which states that for an area to be designated for golf cart use the speed limit is to be 25 MPH. Advised that the initial plans were for this area to be a gated community. Recommended that there be a line-of-sight study to reveal the significant negative impacts related to the visibility of approaching vehicles. Thanked the City for the placement of the much-needed stop sign. Noted an understanding that Officers could cite individuals traveling at speeds deemed unreasonable and not safe for the conditions existing at that time. Relayed that when vehicles park in the bicycle lanes, there is no enforcement. Strongly opposed posting a 40-MPH speed limit, noting discussions with the developer. Dr. Wedel provided a PowerPoint presentation, highlighting the applicable law, the Vehicle Code regulations, the City's right to set speeds deemed appropriate, the minimum front yard setbacks due to the initial plan for the community to be gated, the negative visibility impacts, the golf cads use in this area, the previous efforts of the residents, the lack of help to address the issue of speeding, the safety hazards at hand, the opposition to setting the speed limit on Temeku Drive at 40 MPH due to the houses fronting the street, the insignificant reduction in traffic after Meadows Parkway opened (i.e., 2%), the volume study which was conducted on Easter Sunday to compare to previous data, cut-through traffic due to the beauty of the drive and the speed limits not being enforced, and the 4% of vehicles that are adhering to the 30 MPH posted limits; and queried who would benefit by increasing the speed limits. Advising that if the golf cads were permitted to travel in this area, and if the Vehicle Code states that the speed limit can only be 25 MPH with this condition, Commissioner Katan noted his concurrence with the residents, recommending a 25-MPH speed limit. Commissioner Coe relayed that if the streets are not dedicated thera should be efforts to expedite the process; and noted concurrence with Commissioner Katan's comments, recommending enforcing a 25-MPH speed limit. For clarification, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the City Council may or may not have designated this area as a golf cad community, confirming that the Vehicle Code does require that the posted speed limits should not exceed 25 MPH where golf cads are used; advised that the mere fact that the City designated this area as a golf cart community does not preempt the ability to set enforceable speed limits based on the 85th percentile of speeds traveled; clarified that golf cads should not be permitted on the streets posted above 25 MPH regardless of previous designations, advising that the 25 MPH cannot be enforced simply due to the area being designated as a golf cart street; confirmed, for Chairwoman Edwards, that the 85th percentile data takes precedence over the golf cart designation; and advised that if the City does posts the limits higher than 25 MPH, golf cart travel on the streets should be restricted (per the Vehicle Code standards). Commissioner Coe relayed that he was not so concerned with setting reasonable speed limits which would be technically enforceable, advising that the majority of drivers would not be aware of the required support analysis and would most likely adhere to the limits set. For Commissioner Coe, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that numerous studies have proven that merely posting a speed limit on a street has almost no effect on what the prevailing speeds will be, advising that people will always drive at a speed they deem comfortable, safe, and reasonable; provided additional information regarding the issues associated with Police Officers citing individuals for speeding while knowing that there was no supporting traffic analysis supporting the limits; reiterated that a City Council designation as a golf cart area cannot preempt the laws in setting speed limits; for Chairwoman Edwards, clarified that the City Council could not continue to allow golf cads in this area and then set the speed limit at 25 MPH, and expect this speed to be enforceable; and relayed that there was the ability to lower the speed limit under 40 MPH if other conditions exist, requesting the Public/Traffic Safety Commission ensure that the Traffic Engineer supports the setforth special conditions because legally a registered engineer would have to make this determination. Referencing the Vehicle Code, Commissioner Connedon noted that the golf carts could operate in crossings with a speed limit of 45 MPH or below. Chairwoman Edwards, echoed by Commissioner Coe, relayed that in this area the golf carts were operating on the streets. Commissioner Connerton relayed that this situation was not typical, noting that with the 85th percentile of traveled speeds data, the speed limit could be posted at 35-40 MPH, could be reduced to 30 MPH if special conditions exist, querying whether setting speed limits in this range would restrict the use of golf carts. In response to Commissioner Connerton, Senior Engineer Moghadam provided additional information regarding typical drivers travelling at speeds they feel are safe, noting the rationale for the laws being based on setting the limits on the 85th percentile of traveled speeds; and advised that accident history was one of the viable conditions justifying a reduction in the speed limit, clarifying that there was no accident pattern in this area. For Commissioner Lanier, Senior Engineer Moghadam noted that staff's focus was on the safety issues, ergo, the placement of the stop sign in this area; and confirmed that line-of-sight impacts would justify lowering the speed limit. Chairwoman Edwards noted that she appreciated Dr. Wedel's research and time spent regarding this issue; and additionally relayed gratitude to staff for addressing this complicated and unique situation with her. For Chairwoman Edwards, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the City was in the process of accepting the streets which could take from a few weeks time to a few months time; noted the goal to place an enforceable speed limit in this area as soon as possible, advising that in the event that the street acceptance takes longer, staff would seek avenues to ensure that the Officers can enforce the justified speed limits; provided additional information regarding the City Council accepting the streets as soon as there is satisfaction that the streets are ready for this acceptance; and confirmed, for Commissioner Connedon, that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission could move forward as though the streets were accepted, making a recommendation for a posted speed limit. In response to Chairwoman Edwards' queries, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the curb heights at a measurement of five or six inches would not be considered a mitigating factor in reducing the speed limits; and in response to querying whether a center line stripe would aid in slowing vehicle speeds, noted that Senior Engineer . Moghadam could make this determination, relaying that at times speeds increased with this striping. Chairwoman Edwards advised that she saw as a mitigating circumstance the fact that the golf carts are, and would continue to be, driven in the streets, which in her opinion should be considered. MOTION: Commissioner Coe moved to recommend an established speed limit of 35 MPH on the entire roadway including Temeku Drive and Honors Drive. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Connerton for discussion purposes. (Ultimately this motion passed; see page 14,) Director of Public Works Hughes noted that this limit would be lower than the 85th percentile of speeds traveled in certain sections, questioning what circumstances and conditions this was based on. Senior Engineer Moghadam noted that this limit (i.e., 35 MPH) could be justified on the sight visibility distance issues; and for Chairwoman Edwards, clarified that it would be difficult to justify a speed limit any lower than 35 MPH, providing additional information regarding the speeds that are typically traveled. In response to Chairwoman Edwards' queries as to whether she was correct in understanding staff's comments, that if the speed limit is posted at 35 MPH, in lieu of the 30 MPH posting at this time, that staff was of the opinion that the speeds traveled would not change, Director of Public Works Hughes noted that after dealing with this issue for over 21 years, that the posting of a speed has had almost no effect, citing an example in the City of Indian Wells where regardless of data and the lack of being able to enforce the limits, the City Council of this City changed the speed limits throughout the City to a posted limit of 25 MPH, noting that after six weeks all the new signage was changed back to the enforceable limits, clarifying that merely posting a speed was not effective. Chairwoman Edwards relayed a preference to post an enforceable speed limit, and to increase enforcement, ensuring that vehicles traveled at that speed. For Chairwoman Edwards, Officer Nelson relayed that if the limits were supported, the citations for violations would be defensible in court, noting that an additional Neighborhood Officer would be coming on board in July; and confirmed, for Commissioner Lanier, that the Officers could issue citations in this area at the limit of 35 MPH. At this time voice vote was taken regarding the motion reflecting unanimous approval. Commissioner Conner[on commended Dr. Wedel for his fine presentation, relaying that it had been informative and detailed. Resolution Amending Meetinq Schedule of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission RECOMMENDATION: 5.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission adopt a resolution entitled: RESOLUTION NO. PTS 2001-01 A RESOLUTION OF THE PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. PTS 99-01 ESTABLISHING THE FOURTH THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH AS THE REGULAR MEETING SCHEDULE In response to Commissioner Coe's queries, staff relayed that changing the meeting date to the third Thursday would create scheduling problems. MOTION: Commissioner Coe moved to approve staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Conner[on for discussion purposes. (Ultimately this motion passed; see below.) Noting that he did not support this recommendation in the past due to his opinion that there was much for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to accomplish, Commissioner Conner[on advised that he would not support this recommendation at this time. At this time voice vote was taken reflecting approval with the exception of Commissioner Conner[on who voted n.~o. TRAFFIC ENGINEER'S REPORT In response to Commissioner Coe's previous queries, Senior Engineer Moghadam noted that in the agenda material staff had only included staffls response to various letters from residents, and not copies of the original letters, advising that in the future staff would include copies of the original letters. Advising that the CIP process has begun, Director of Public Works Hughes noted that the draft CIP would most likely be presented to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission at the May meeting, relaying that the CIP would be presented to the City Council at a workshop approximately one week before presentation to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. R:\bafficmin u les~042601 14 POLICE CHIEF'S REPORT With respect to the residents' comments regarding the radar trailer that was not operating for four days, Officer Nelson noted that the units were sent out to be refurbished which hopefully resolved this problem. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT No comments. COMMISSION REPORTS A. Commending the Police Department, Commissioner Connerton relayed that at the alternation that took place on March 25t~ on Rancho California Road, east of the freeway, which involved two drivers physically fighting, that the Police Department handled the situation in a thorough manner. For Commissioner Connerton's comments regarding the traffic impacts on the southbound offramp on the 1-15 to Winchester Road, Director of Public Works Hughes noted that there was a budgeted item to widen the bridge in the creek in order to get the width to provide two offramp lanes at this location; advised that this bridge widening project had been designed and forwarded to Caltrans for plan check, noting that there has been a major setback regarding the ability to proceed with this project; relayed that the City was also working with Caltrans for a new interchange north of Winchester Road, noting the progress of the project, advising that the project study report is anticipated to be approved by Caltrans in July or August; relayed that the new interchange design would include plans to merge and weave the existing Winchester Road Interchange, advising that the existing structures would conflict with the new structure; clarified that if the bridge would have been constructed, ultimately it would have to taken out for construction of the new ultimate project; noted that since it has been realized that the bridge will not be widened, staff was working with Caltrans in efforts to obtain an additional offramp lane, providing additional information; advised that this project has been made a priority project and there would be efforts to place it on fast-track status; noted that Caltrans was in the process of planning additional signage on the auxiliary lane; in response to Commission queries, noted that the traffic impacts were not caused from the design of the offramp, but from driver behaviors; and relayed that the traffic may be relieved somewhat now that the Murrieta Hot Springs Project was wrapping up. Commissioner Connerton noted the importance of striving to address this traffic issue expeditiously, acknowledging the City's efforts. For informational purposes, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the City of Murrieta was going to be closing down traffic on Jefferson Avenue for a two-year period for a project, noting that there would be a detour route; and relayed that the City of Temecula has requested to view the plans for the detour. In response to Commissioner Connerton, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that the City has a consultant on board for the Red Light Camera matter, advising that at a future date there would be a presentation to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. Commissioner Lanier recommended that when a traffic study was conducted in a neighborhood that there be accompanying information for the residents, in order to provide a better understanding of the data. In response to Commissioner Lanier, Officer Nelson provided an overview of the Neighborhood Enforcement, relaying that along that along with the Neighborhood Enforcement Program that in between other calls the Officers will also enforce the areas which have been recommended for additional enforcement, confirming that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission concerns are forwarded to the Officers. With respect to the signage denoting red light fines, For Commissioner Katan, Director of Public Works Hughes noted that the signage would most likely not be placed at all the intersections in the City. For Commissioner Coe, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the bridge construction project in the Via Montezuma area would be completed in approximately four weeks, providing additional information regarding the evolvement of this project and the discussions which took place with the Resource Agencies. Thanking the Police Department for their support in the community, Commissioner Coe commended the Police Department. Referencing a newspaper article she distributed to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, Chairwoman Edwards relayed that the Keep Kids Alive, Drive 25 Program was going to be implemented in the City of Encinitas. Advising that she got to preview the Transportation portion of the City's website designed by Web Analyst Comerchero, Chairwoman Edwards relayed that the data was fantastic; and opined that this segment of the website would most likely be award winning. Chairwoman Edwards noted that she had an opportunity to meet with the Harveston Project representatives, relaying that there would be some wonderful innovative concepts introduced. Acknowledging the City's thorough graffiti removal program, Chairwoman Edwards queried if there was a program to remove the stickers placed on the back of street signs, stop signs, and signals. Director of Public Works Hughes noted that this was considered graffiti and that the City addressed this issue within that program, relaying that it might take longer due to not being noticed as readily as graffiti. Chairwoman Edwards encouraged everyone to attend the 1st Street Bridge Dedication Ceremony on Tuesday morning. Commissioner Coe noted that he and his wife would be attending, relaying that it would be their 25th Wedding Anniversary. ADJOURNMENT At 9:12 P.M. Chairwoman Edwards formally adjourned this meeting to Thursday, May 24, 2001 at 6:00 P.M., in the City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. ~Cho~an~ann Edwards Admini~Sec~ary Anita Pyle