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HomeMy WebLinkAbout121296 PTS Minutes MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA PUBUCITRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12, 1996 A regular meeting of the City of Temecula PubliclTraffic Safety Commission was called to order on Thursday, December 12, 1996, 7:02 P.M., at the City Hall Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. Chairman Coe called the'meeting to order. PRESENT: COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Markham, Perry ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None Also present were Public Works Engineer Ali Moghadam, Assistant Engineer Hasib Baha, Police Sergeant Rodney Crisp, Battalion Chief John Winder and Administrative Secretary Anita Pyle. Chairman Coe expressed his appreciation to the City Council for reappointing him to the PubliclTraffic Safety Commission and welcomed newly appointed Commissioner Larry Markham to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. Chairman Coe called for non-agenda items at 7:05 P.M. 1. Mr. Frank Klein, 30180 Santiago Road, Temecula, noted he has seen no change on the dirt portion of Santiago Road since his appearance before the Public/Traffic Safety Commission and hoped the matter was still open. Mr. Klein asked to be put on the agenda at a future date for a 15-minute presentation on Temecula winds. 2. Mr. Jay Finnell, 31145 Via Norte, Temecula, presented a petition asking for the Via Norte/Del Ray Streets to be made safer. He stated the residents he contacted would like one or more of the following items: speed limit reduced to 30 MPH; painted bike/jogging lanes; increased frequency of safety warning signal in the area. Mr. Finnell said a lot of the traffic was at 55 to 60 MPH, which makes it very unsafe for children and to exit one's driveway. Commissioner Guerriero mentioned there had been extensive studies in that area in the past and the problem seemed to be internal as most of the speeders were residents of the tract and perhaps Mr. Finnell and his group need to go before the homeowners association to resolve the problem internally. Commissioner Coe stated the City can revisit the area to determine if there is adequate parking area and mentioned the Traffic Calming Policy which can be referenced. Sergeant Crisp stated the radar trailer will be placed in the area along with back-up enforcement. R: \tn\ffic\commiasn \minutell\96\ t 21296. pts!ajp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR 1. AOllroval of Consent Calendar It was moved by Commissioner Guerriero and seconded by Commissioner Perry to approve the Minutes of August 22, 1996, and September 26, 1996. The motion carried as follows: AYES: 4 COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Perry NOES: o COMMISSIONERS: None ABSTAIN: 1 COMMISSIONERS: Markham COMMISSION BUSINESS 2. Removal of Parkin\) Restriction - Mira Loma Drive Associate Engineer Ali Moghadam stated the property owner affected by the Mira Loma Drive red curbing only one (1) days notice was received of the September 26, 1996, Commission meeting when this matter was discussed. The property owner has requested this item be placed on the agenda again to discuss his concerns such as pedestrian safety and speeding. Mr. Robert Oder, Jr., 29911 Mira Loma Drive, Temecula, owner of the Mira Loma Apartments, expressed his concern that large trucks/vans parking next to the red curb area present hazards to the large number of children in the area and to traffic exiting the apartment complex or driving by because everyone's visibility is substantially diminished. He would like the red curbs extended by 30 feet on both sides of the two driveways; the area between the two driveways be all red curbed; and a speed limit sign posted on the hill. He mentioned also how water becomes a torrent during severe rain storms, but recognizes a costly storm drainage project is the only answer. Mr. Robert Oder, Sr., 29911 Mira Loma Drive, Temecula, owner of the Mira Loma Apartments, stated safety was their real concern and they have maintained the red curbs since 1981 when they were told by the County to paint the curbs to whatever length they felt was necessary. He said the silt in the road causes drivers exiting the apartments to spin out partially and they cannot be seen when a large vehicle is parked by the driveways. Commissioner Perry stated although there is little that can be done regarding to the speed limit, he does not see a disadvantage to the red curbs except for maintenance over a long period. 2 R: \1I1lffi.c\commissn\m.inutca\96\121296.pts/ajp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 It was moved by Commissioner Perry and seconded by Commissioner Guerriero to recommend the City Council adopt a resolution to extend the red curb on the north side of Mira Loma Drive by 30 feet on the east and west ends of the driveways; to fill in the red curb between the two (2) driveways; and also to have staff look at the drainage problems with the silt. The motion carried as follows: AYES: 5 COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Markham, Perry NOES: o COMMISSIONERS: None ABSENT: o COMMISSIONERS: None 3. "No-Parkino" Zone - Rancho California Road Associate Engineer Ali Moghadam stated that staff has received a request from the Post Office to establish a "No Parking" zone on Rancho California Road, east of Margarita Road in front of the Post Office. However, since Rancho California Road is a major arterial, parking should be restricted on both sides of Rancho California Road from Margarita Road to the east City Limits. Mr. Moghadam said this recommendation covered Items 3 and 6 on the Agenda. It was moved by Commissioner Markham and seconded by Commissioner Guerriero to recommend the City Council adopt a resolution to establish a "No Parking" zone on both sides of Rancho California Road, east of Margarita Road, to the Temecula City Limits at Butterfield Stage Road. The motion carried as follows: AYES: 5 COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Markham, Perry NOES: o COMMISSIONERS: None ABSENT: o COMMISSIONERS: None 4. "No-ParkinQ" Zone - Rainbow Canvon Road at Birdie Drive Associate Engineer Ali Moghadam presented the staff recommendation to establish a "No Parking" zone on Rainbow Canyon Road at Birdie Drive to improve the visibility of approaching vehicles when exiting Birdie Drive. Commissioner Markham asked if establishing the red curb on the north side of Rainbow Canyon Road from Pala Road to Pechanga Creek would be beneficial due to the high speed traffic down Rainbow Canyon Road. Mr. Moghadam replied he saw no disadvantages. Commissioner Coe stated that might impact the homes in the area who already have limited parking. 3 R:\uaflic\commis8D\minutca\96\121296.pts/ajp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 It was moved by Commissioner Guerriero and seconded by Commissioner Perry to recommend the City Council adopt a resolution to establish a "No Parking" zone on Rainbow Canyon Road on both sides of the Birdie Drive intersection. The motion carried as follows: AYES: 5 COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Markham, Perry NOES: o COMMISSIONERS: None ABSENT: o COMMISSIONERS: None 5. "No-Parking" Zone - North General Kearnv Road. north of Nicolas Road Engineer Ali Moghadam presented the staff recommendation to establish a "No Parking" zone on North General Kearny Road north of Nicolas Road to improve sight distance and enhance safety of bicycle path users. It was moved by Commissioner Coe and seconded by Commissioner Markham to recommend the City Council adopt a resolution to establish a "No Parking" zone on North General Kearny Road, north of Nicolas Road. Commissioner Perry inquired if there were warrants for traffic signals at the intersection of Nicolas Road and North General Kearny as it is becoming a problem area and also if the matter could be put on next month's agenda. Mr. Moghadam responded that he would see if the warrants study has been done previously and report back at the next meeting. The motion carried as follows: AYES: 5 COMMISSIONERS: Coe, Guerriero, Johnson, Markham, Perry NOES: o COMMISSIONERS: None ABSENT: o COMMISSIONERS: None 6. "No-ParkinQ" Zone - Rancho California Road at Meadows Parkwav The area included in this item was incorporated into the motion for Item 3. The motion passed unanimously. 7. Election of Public/Traffic Safetv Commission Chairoerson and Co-Chairoerson It was moved by Commissioner Guerriero and seconded by Commissioner Perry to elect Larry Markham as Chairperson to preside over the Public/Traffic Safety Commission for the 1997 calendar year. The motion was carried with Commissioner Markham abstaining. 4 R; \tnsffic\commi8sn\minutC8\96\l21296.pta/ajp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 It was moved by Commissioner Perry and seconded by Chairman Coe to elect Ron Guerriero as Vice-Chairperson who will assume the duties of the Chairperson in his absence, for the 1997 calendar year. The motion was unanimously carried. TRAFFIC ENGINEER'S REPORT Engineer Moghadam presented the Traffic Engineer's Report. Commissioner Perry expressed his concern about traffic between the Bedford Court signal and 1-15 being brought to a standstill and creating a traffic hazard. Mr. Moghadam stated Caltrans has required the City to install interconnect cable between the two (2) signals to coordinate the timing. Commissioner Markham stated the installed La Paz Road signal, allows a window for the westbound traffic to get out. It is his understanding the ramp widening and signalization project goes to bid January 1997 with the contract awarded May 1997. Commissioner Perry stated he has been contacted about the increase in traffic on La Paz Road since the signal was installed and there is concern as the road edge is not marked by a white line. He asked if staff can look at the situation and since there is no street lighting, install better markings so people can see the road edge at night. POLICE CHIEF'S REPORT Sergeant Rodney Crisp reported the first Operation ERACIT, on November 8, 1996 was very successful and two more are planned for December 14, 1996 and one later in the month. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT Commissioner Guerriero asked if the City has a false alarm ordinance. Battalion Chief John Winder replied there is not one, and although reoccurrence of false alarms is not a problem at this time, he would like one in the future. He stated several ordinances are in effect in other cities and he would get copies, report back to the Commission to determine the best way for Temecula to proceed. Commissioner Markham asked when the new station will open. Chief Winder answered probably in February 1997 and he believes it will be the showcase of the county. Chairman Coe questioned whether or not the City would be having another safety expo. Chief Winder replied it had been tabled until 1997. Commissioner Markham asked about the status of personnel for the French Valley Airport Fire Station. Chief Winder stated during the fire season, there are two state Forest Fire engines downtown and during the winter, the county puts up the money to keep those people on emergency response which allows a paid engine at French Valley for the winter months to provide coverage in the north end of the city and to do maintenance. 5 R:\traffic\commissn\minutes\96\121296.pts/lljp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 Commissioner Markham asked about the potential of a volunteer program for French Valley. Chief Winder said there is a group now, but recruitment of more volunteers for the Temecula Valley Volunteer Company is needed so all stations can be covered, leaving those living near French Valley staff that station. Commissioner Guerriero had a question about the status of the new helmets. Chief Winder stated the Department has one which is in service, and is trying to buy another before the discount period runs out. Commissioner Guerriero asked if the Chief had heard about a River Rocket for fast water rescue, and an illuminated fire rope. Chief Winder said they have a line gun with a cordless string which is similar to the River Rocket, but he had not heard of the fire rope. He will contact the distributors and get back to the Commission if either appears worthwhile. COMMISSION DISCUSSION Commissioner Markham reported he attended the Murrieta Transportation and Traffic Commission where alignments to tie Jackson Avenue into Alta Murrieta or Franklin becoming Whitewood, and studies of the potential Alta Murrieta Park Overpass were discussed, which effect the interface between the two Cities. He stated the north end realignment of Jefferson Avenue tying into Palomar and the creek side alignment were also discussed. He is unable to attend the next meeting to be held January 2, 1997. He also attended the Murrieta City Council meeting and they have received a RAID grant, which deals with car theft, and a supplemental law enforcement allocation for equipment based on population. Sergeant Crisp stated the Temecula Police Department is also working on the equipment allocation grant. Commissioner Markham inquired if staff had given thought to red a curb on all the circulation element streets rather than on an individual basis. Commissioner Perry stated he did not opposed the idea, but there are a number of problem areas such as Jefferson Avenue, and hearings and meetings with the business owners for their input would be necessary. Commissioner Markham inquired as to why high pressure sodium lights for signals are installed which are in violation of the City's Ordinance and the Mt. Palomar scenario. He mentioned the county uses the same high pressure lights, but Caltrans is beginning to use the low pressure sodium lights, here and in District 11, San Diego County. Mr. Moghadam stated amber traffic signal lights are low pressure and can be confused with the amber lights for signal indications. Commissioner Guerriero inquired about having a right-turn lane eastbound on Rancho California Road into Oscar's along with no parking on Rancho California Road. Mr. Moghadam replied such a lane is possible. Commissioner Guerriero questioned allowing left-turns across Rancho California Road out of the Target Shopping Center by the Claim Jumper as it creates a hazardous situation. He asked if the median could be extended and elongate the left-turn lane at the signal. Commissioner Perry stated due to the congestion and poor internal design, all left-turn lanes out of the center should be eliminated. Staff will look into the matter. 6 R: \traffic\commissn\m.inutca\96\ 121296. ptB/ajp PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 12. 1996 Commissioner Guerriero stated the signal at Lyndie Lane has been activated at peak morning and evening times when there is no east or westbound traffic on Lyndie Lane. Mr. Moghadam stated the signal can detect a vehicle making a right-hand turn and then does not realize the car has moved on. He will look into the matter. Commissioner Coe stated Rainbow Canyon Road has had some pot holes filled, but it is still atrocious and very dangerous. He also mentioned it was thought the signal at Rainbow Canyon Road and Pala Road was going to improve congestion, but it seems to have done the opposite. Commissioner Coe stated it is impossible for Pala Road traffic to make turning moves onto Hwy. 79(S) when there is peak traffic on Hwy. 79(S) which backs up traffic on Rainbow Canyon Road. He said sometime in the future, that area needs to be revisited. It was moved by Commissioner Guerriero and seconded by Commissioner Markham to adjourn the meeting at 9:10 P.M. The motion was unanimously carried. The next regular meeting of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission will be held on Thursday, January 23, 1997, at 7:00 p.m., Temecula City Hall Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. {l~(}k Chairman Charles Coe ~bfJL---- .'~ecre,. y 7 R: \tndfic\commisan \m.inut.ca \96\ 121296. ptalajp