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HomeMy WebLinkAbout092701 PTS Minutes MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 27, 2001 CALL TO ORDER The City of Temecula Public/Traffic Safety Commission convened in a regular meeting at 6:00 P.M., on Thursday, September 27, 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 Katan. ROLLCALL Present: Commissioners Connedon, Katan, and Vice Chairman Lanier. Absent: Commissioners Coe and Edwards. Also Present: Director of Public Works Hughes, Senior Engineer Moghadam, Associate Engineer Gonzalez, Police Sergeant DiMaggio, Police Sergeant Steger, Minute Clerk Hansen, Minute Clerk Ice. PRESENTATIONS Temecula Police Department's Crime Prevention Proqram - Community Services Officer Lynn Fanene Via distribution of the Crime Prevention Unit's Program Guide, Officer Fanene provided an overview of the Crime Prevention Program, noting the four steps defining crime prevention, as follows: 1 ) anticipation, 2) recognition, 3) an appraisal of a crime risk, and 4) the initiation of some action to remove or reduce this risk; relayed the historical objectives of crime prevention which were to stamp out the existing crime, and to prevent outbreaks of crime in the future; provided an overview of his training and experience related to this field; highlighted the programs in Temecula regarding crime prevention, as follows: The Neighborhood Watch Program, Business Security Survey, Child Stranger/Danger Program, the McGruff Truck Program, the McGruff Crime Dog Presentation Program, Station Tours, Personal Safety Operation I.D., Site Plan Checks, and Temporary Conditional Use Permits; and read into the record the Crime Prevention Unit's mission statement (as written in the City of Temecula Police Department Crime prevention Unit's Program Guide). For Commissioner Connerton, Officer Fanene relayed that he attends the Neighborhood Homeowner Association meetings when he is invited, noting that typically there are R:/trafficminutes/092701 1 previous arrangements with the Board Members; and relayed the process if a specified area is experiencing a crime increase, noting the initiation of a Neighborhood Watch Program and the Problem-Oriented Policing Team's involvement; and for Commissioner Lanier, confirmed that the Citizen's Action Patrol would have a positive impact with respect to crime prevention. PUBLIC COMMENTS The following individuals expressed concern regarding traffic impacts proximate to the Promenade residential development: [] Mr. Craig J. Turner u Ms. Danielle Ortega 41777 Carleton Way 41854 Carleton Way representing the PromePade HOA The above-mentioned individuals relayed the following comments regarding traffic concerns in the Promenade neighborhood: Noted concern regarding the location of the entrance/exit of the upcoming corporate development, specifically relaying concern regarding the potential for this traffic to cut-though the Promenade residential tract. Recommended the installation of plastic delineators (similar to the devices installed proximate to Lowe's), which would prevent traffic coming from the Promenade tract from making left-turns onto Margarita Road, and additionally restrict U-turns on Margarita Road in this area. Applauded the Police Department for the excellent presentation presented at the recent Neighborhood Watch meeting. Submitted copies of a petition to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission signed by residents in this area which had been previously submitted to staff (per agenda material). For Commissioner Connerton, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that a traffic calming program has been initiated in the Carleton Way area; and noted that the next time the radar trailer is placed in this area he would collect the speed survey data for presentation to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission at a future meeting. The following individuals expressed concern regarding the extent of the use of the Temecula Middle School as a sports park: Ms. RoseMarie Cathcart 32115 Cala Torrente Ms. Pat Chalkley 42843 Camino Alagon Mr. Gene Chalkley 42843 Camino Alagon The above-mentioned individuals relayed concern regarding the use of Temecula Middle School as a sports park for the following reasons: Noise, traffic, and parking Impacts. The safety of the neighborhood children with this plethora of traffic. The negative impacts related to the lowering of property values. Littering. The additional traffic impacts in this area due to church parking. Noted the 44 scheduled hours for practice weekly (for football and soccer) at this school site. The restrictions this parking places on potential emergency vehicles accessing the neighborhood. While commending the Police Department for the recent increased enforcement, relayed that as soon as the Police Officers leave the area, the illegal parking continues (which was confirmed by Police Sergeant DiMaggio.) Recommended permitting on-street parking on Meadows Parkway when the construction is completed. Noted the general support of the neighborhood regarding the implementation of parking restrictions. Requested that the City construct additional sports parks. For Commissioner Lanier, Senior Engineer Moghadam confirmed Mr. Chalkley's comments, specifically that the Community Services Department stated that while there will be efforts made to attempt to reduce the number of games and practices at this school site, that there is no guarantee that this will be feasible at this time; and advised that the Public Works Department concurs with Mr. Chalkley's concerns. Recommending that the Police Department increase enforcement in this area, Commissioner Connerton requested staff to agendize this matter for a future meeting. COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Minutes RECOMMENDATION: 1.1 Approve the Minutes of May 24, 2001. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 1. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioners Coe and Edwards who were absent. COMMISSION BUSINESS 2. Speed Limit - Valleio Avenue and Jedediah Smith Road RECOMMENDATION: 2.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommend that the City Council adopt an ordinance establishing a 35 MPH speed limit on Vallejo Avenue and Jedediah Smith Road. Senior Engineer Moghadam presented the staff report (of record), noting the request from Mr. Larry Markham, representing the Los Ranchitos Homeowners Association (HOA), to establish a speed limit on Vallejo Avenue; relayed the results of the traffic surveys inclusive of speed data, volume data, accident history, and other conditions, noting that the surveyed speeds varied from 39-43 MPH; advised that a speed limit established between 35-40 MPH would be supportable, relaying staff's recommendation to establish a 35 MPH speed limit due to other conditions present (i.e., the lack of a R:\t raft cr~nutes/092701 3 sidewalk, horizontal alignment of these streets, the narrow roadway sections, and the residential land use of the area); and noted that the highest volumes of traffic were on the portion of Vallejo Avenue between Ynez Road and Jedediah Smith Road. Mr. Larry Markham, 30105 Cabrillo Avenue, representing the Los Ranchitos HOA, thanked staff for addressing this matter expeditiously; and concurred with staff's recommendation to post the speed limit at 35 MPH. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to approve staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioners Coe and Edwards who were absent. 3. In-Pavement Amber LED Flashinq Liqhts for Crosswalks RECOMMENDATION: 3.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission receive the status report and provide further direction to staff. Noting that while it had been previously relayed by the representative for the in- pavement amber LED flashing lights for crosswalks would be approved as a Uniform Traffic Control Device by the State of California on/or about December of 2000, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that to date the device still has not been accepted as an official traffic control device; provided an overview of the necessity of having a uniform standard for traffic control devices throughout the State, clarifying that typically all types of improvements constructed, and all types of traffic control utilized in the City of TemecuJa were consistent with uniform design standards; advised that in the few instances where uniform design standards were not being utilized, staff had conducted its own engineering studies, verifying that a proper process was conducted; acknowledged that this particular device was being utilized in a few areas as test cases; and clarified that at this time there was no standard, no uniformity, and no criteria regarding this device, additionally noting that there was no severe negative traffic impact currently in the City of Temecula which this device would improve. Commissioner Connerton relayed two recommended areas for installation of this device, noting that when traveling down Meadows Parkway, coming down the hill from Rancho California Road (towards La Serena) there is an area where pedestrians cross the street to access the sports park, and from La Serena towards the sports parks there is a blind curve which restricts the line-of-sight view of any pedestrian crossing in this area, advising that these two areas would be appropriate areas for testing the device; relayed that this device has been placed in other cities, noting that there is evidence that the installation has reduced traffic fatalities by seventy percent (70%); and advised that since the safety of the residents should be foremost, that unless this device is demonstrated as a hazard, it was his opinion that a recommendation for installation should be forwarded to the City Council. Concurring that safety was the greatest concern of the Public Works Department, Director of Public Works Hughes clarified that uniform traffic standards were developed to ensure that the devices used are safe, and recognizable by all motorists utilizing the streets; recommended that if the location mentioned by Commissioner Connerton is a specific concern, that staff be directed to review that site and provide recommendations on how to best address the situation; advised that the fact that other agencies were using the device was not a significant factor in determining whether the City of Temecula should install the device, specifically without thorough analysis, noting certain situations where the device could cause a hazard, relaying that pedestrians will most likely cross with the understanding that this would be a safe crossing, whereas motorists are not likely to recognize the installation. Advising that due to the location of the park site at the previously-noted location, Commissioner Connerton relayed his concern regarding the improbability that children would walk 300 yards to cross at an intersection; recommended that after additional review by staff this installation be agendized for the next Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting, advising that by the time the installation was approved by the City Council the device would most likely have been approved by Caltrans. For Director of Public Works Hughes, Senior Engineer Moghadam noted that the previously-referenced location could be studied and agendized for the next Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting; and advised that if this device was ultimately installed as a test site, as suggested by Commissioner Connerton, that there was no data to compare for a before/after installation analysis (i.e., no traffic accidents at this site), Commissioner Connerton noting the benefit regarding taking proactive action after identifying a potential problem area. Commissioner Katan queried whether there was data available regarding installing the device in a school zone or as a traffic calming device; and queried whether staff would be more willing recommend installation in these applications as a test site. With respect to installing the device as a traffic calming tool, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that he had no knowledge of any studies regarding utilizing the devise for this purpose; with respect to installing the device in a school zone, recommended that these installations be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, relaying that the School District was also governed by standards; reiterated that if there were specific areas of concern of the Public/Traffic Safety Commissioners, that staff would investigate those locations. Commissioner Katan requested that when staff reviewed the previously-noted area for the feasibility of installing the device, that if staff was of the opinion that this location would not be best-suited for the installation that staff would recommend an alternate site that would be more appropriate for testing the device. Director of Public Works Hughes clarified that it would most likely be staff's recommendation to not install this device until it is a uniformly-approved standard device; advised that this device would be best placed in an area with a high volume of traffic, as well as a high volume of pedestrian movements, and that there be no existing controlled traffic signal crossing, relaying that at this time there were no locations in the City with these elements; for Commissioner Connerton, noted that on Old Town Front Street (at 5th and 6th Streets) the condition was, as follows: there were reasonable traveled speeds, and the visibility on the route was good; and relayed that typically where there were high volumes of traffic there were not high pedestrian counts. In response to Commissioner Connedon, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that Old Town Front Street/6tn Street was controlled via multi-way stop signs; and for R:ltra~¢minules\092701 5 Commissioner Katan, noted that due to there being no guidelines for this device, it would not be feasible for staff to determine where these devices would be appropriate, and cause a greater benefit rather than a hazard. Relaying caution, Director of Public Works Hughes provided additional information regarding the liability risks associated with installing a device for experimentation rather than utilizing a uniform traffic control device, reiterating that this device was untested, and that the majority of motorists and pedestrians would not recognize the device. Commissioner Connerton noted that the State of Oregon has utilized the device, reiterating the positive impacts resulting from the installations; and advised that based on his experience (reviewing the devices installed in Orange County) he was convinced that the device would be effective in the City of Temecula. For clarification, Director of Public Works Hughes advised that the State of California had one of the highest standards for safety equipment in the world, reiterating that if the Public/Traffic Safety Commission had concerns regarding a specific location that staff be directed to review these areas and bring back recommendations, clarifying that safety was the greatest concern of staff. Commissioner Katan concurred with Commissioner Connerton with respect to being proactive regarding the installation of the device, relaying that while there was risk involved with these other cities that have installed the device, there was additionally the potential for the public to be safer. For Commissioner Katan, Director of Public Works Hughes advised that the vendor for this product had clearly stated that this device was not for use at signalized intersections. Concurring with the benefits of taking proactive action, Vice Chairman Lanier noted that along with the location at Meadows Parkway (proximate to the sports park) recommended to be investigated by Commissioner Connerton, that the area on Meadows Parkway where pedestrians cross to access the Vintage Hills Pool might be well-suited for future installation of this device, concurring with the benefits of testing the device with an initial installation. MOTION: Commissioner Connerton moved to recommend that staff provide traffic solution recommendations to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission regarding the Meadows Parkway crossing proximate to the sports park, inclusive investigating the feasibility of installing the in-pavement amber flashing LED lights, and that the issue be agendized for the next Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting; and directed staff to develop a criteria for creating additionally safety solutions at similar crossings in the City. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioners Coe and Edwards who were absent. TRAFFIC ENGINEER'S REPORT Senior Engineer Moghadam updated the Public/Traffic Safety Commission regarding the signals now in operation, listed as follows: a signal at Diaz/~Vinchester Roads, North General Kearny (proximate to the middle school), and two existing signals which had been on flashing status during construction R:/trafficminutes\092701 6 which were now operating at Margaita/Pio Pico Roads, and Margarita/DePortola Roads; and for Vice Chairman Commissioner Lanier, confirmed that the signal at Margarita/Stone Wood Roads was also operating. POLICE CHIEF'S REPORT Police Sergeant DiMaggio advised that Police Sergeant Steger would be would be assuming his responsibilities within the traffic division since he would be moving on to the administrative section of the department; and noted that Lieutenant Pingel would be in charge of the traffic division. Commissioner Connerton thanked Police Sergeant DiMaggio for his excellent work with the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, noting that he would be greatly missed. With respect to the Keep Kids Afive, Drive 25 Program, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that there would be a meeting regarding this program on October 11th from 1:00 P.M. to 3:30 P.M, in San Diego at the San Diego County Library located at 700 Eucalyptus Avenue in the City of Vista. Police Sergeant DiMaggio noted that the Rod Run in Old Town would begin on September 28, 2001, noting that there would be street closures for this event; relayed that the following weekend (October 5-7) would be the Tractor Race Event; advised that in October there would be the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Race; and noted the December events to be held in Old Town were approaching. For Commissioner Connerton, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that the Safety Exposition Event was held approximately every two years; noted that grant monies would most likely be received in November, relaying that with this funding Child Safety Fairs would be held at the schools, and free bicycle helmets would be distributed, In response to Commissioner Connerton, Police Sergeant DiMaggio noted that the Stop Red Light Abuse Program (SLAP) was still in effect; and additionally relayed that a new Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET) Officer would soon be added to the Police Department, advising that the test for that position would be held on October 10th. Police Sergeant Steger introduced himself to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, providing a brief history of his experience; and advised that he looked forward to serving on the dais during the Public/Traffic Safety Commission meetings as the Police Department's representative. Commissioner Lanier, echoed by Commissioner Connerton, welcomed Police Sergeant Steger aboard. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT No comments. R:/traTflcrninute$\092701 7 COMMISSION REPORTS For Commissioner Katan, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that staff would investigate the timing of the signal at the left-hand turn pocket on Rancho California Road/Ynez Road (traveling westbound). After Commission discussion it was the general consensus of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to request that Commissioner Connerton's appointment to the General Plan Update Committee as the Public/Traffic Safety Commission representative be withdrawn since he would be serving as an appointee of Councilman Stone, recommending that Chairwoman Edwards be appointed as the Public/Traffic Safety Commission representative. Commissioner Connerton requested that staff provide information to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission regarding any road improvements for review, additionally relaying that it was his intent to request the City Council to direct the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to review the scheduling of lane closures during street repairs, citing specific instances of concern regarding emergency vehicle access. Director of Public Works Hughes clarified that the turnaround time for many traffic controls plans would not allow for the time it would take for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to review the data, noting that on numerous occasions the traffic control plans are not developed until the staging of the construction is known, which at times is after the award of the contract and into the construction phase; recommended that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission aid in developing policy and/or guidelines regarding this issue, but not become part of the review process due to the time constraints; advised that the Public Works Department was approving traffic control plans on a daily basis; and clarified that the Public Works Department coordinates with the Fire and Police Department regarding road closures and restricted lanes. In response, Commissioner Connerton requested that the issue of setting policy regarding this matter be agendized prior to spring. Senior Engineer Moghadam queried whether Commissioner Connerton would desire to attend the pre-construction meetings. In response, Commissioner Connerton relayed that he would be willing to attend the pre-construction meetings for major projects as the Public/Traffic Safety Commission representative, if this was the desire of the Commission. For Vice Chairman Lanier, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that staff would investigate the feasibility of increasing the capacity of the eastbound left-hand turn pocket on Rancho California Road (between Cosmic Drive and Yukon Road.) In response to Vice Chairman Lanier, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that he would investigate the feasibility of the CAP Team displaying the speed of passing vehicles in an attempt to make drivers more aware of their speeds and slow the vehicles. ADJOURNMENT At 7:59 P.M. Vice Chairman Lanier formally adjourned this meeting to Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 6:00 P.M., in the City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. ~an Maryann Edwards tr~e~S~ary Anita Pyle R:/trafficminute$\092701 9