DATE: MAY 10, 2022
DEPARTMENT: PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
FROM: DAVIDS JACOBS, PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR
BY: GERARDO RODRIGUEZ, ASSISTANT ENGINEER
TITLE: “NO STOPPING” RED ZONES AT THE INTERSECTION OF EUCALYPTUS DRIVE AT CIRCLE DRIVE RECOMMENDED MOTION:
A motion to approve a Resolution establishing a total of 140 feet “No Stopping” red zones at the intersection of Eucalyptus Drive at Circle Drive.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the establishment of the designation of 140 feet of “No Stopping” red zones at the intersection of Eucalyptus Drive at Circle Drive.
BACKGROUND:
Staff received a request from a resident to evaluate stop signs at the intersection of Eucalyptus Drive and Circle Drive. Staff performed a stop warrant analysis (Attachment 1) and determined the intersection does not warrant all way stop signs. Stop signs are not traffic calming devices, they are intersection control installed to inform who has right of way. Stop signs are only warranted under specific roadway volumes or collision history. Without sufficient traffic volume drivers may not perceive the need to stop, which results in poor stop sign compliance. Installing a stop sign where it is not warranted can do more harm than good, and often increases the potential for collisions. It is therefore critical the City take careful consideration when evaluating a stop sign and comply with state and federal guidelines and the City’s traffic control policy outlined in the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (CA-MUTCD).
Staff conducted an analysis and determined sight lines necessary to make a safe turning movement based on gap acceptance decision for turning movements for the minor roadway (Circle Drive) while providing necessary stopping sight distance for vehicles on the major roadway (Eucalyptus Drive). Based on the traffic analysis and design standards established by state and federal design guidelines, Staff is proposing the removal of approximately 140 feet of parking along Eucalyptus Drive.
Intersection sight distance criteria for stop-controlled intersections is typically longer than stopping sight distance to allow the intersection to operate smoothly. Minor road vehicle operators can wait at the approach until they can adequately evaluate sufficient gaps in traffic so that they can proceed safely without forcing a major road vehicle to stop or unduly interfering with major road traffic operations. For this application staff is recommending stopping sight distance as the minimum.
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION:
At its April 14, 2022, meeting, the Traffic and Transportation Commission voted 5-0 to recommend the City Council the establishment of a total of 140 feet “No Stopping” red zones at the intersection of Eucalyptus Drive at Circle Drive.
CEQA CONSIDERATION:
The City of Salinas has determined that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines (Section 15301, Class 1(c)) because the actions consist of operation and minor alteration of an existing City street.
STRATEGIC PLAN INITIATIVE:
“No Stopping” red zones support the Council’s goal of “Public Safety.” DEPARTMENTAL COORDINATION:
Red zones are installed and maintained by Public Works staff. Parking enforcement is provided in coordination with Parking Enforcement contractor (LAZ) and the Police Department.
FISCAL AND SUSTAINABILITY IMPACT:
The estimated labor and material cost to install the “No Stopping” red zones along Eucalyptus Drive is estimated to be $200. Sufficient funding is available in the current streets budget to fund the installations.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution
Attachment 1: Stop Warrants Worksheet
Attachment 2: Proposed “No Stopping” Red Zones Exhibit
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