98-51 DESIGNATING ALL-WAY STOP INTERSECTION

Home Browse Search

EXCERPTS FROM MINUTES OF TAE MEETING OF THE TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMISSION Wednesday, July 8, 1998 ITEM#2 Request for an All-Way Stop at the Intersection of Oakland Avenue and Arbor Drive. Matthew Newell began by saying that he received a request from the residents of the Arbor Meadows Condominiums for a stop sign on the northwest corner of Oakland Avenue at Arbor Drive. This would make the intersection an all-way stop. The concerns of the petitioners are that this area was not heavily traveled for years, and now there is an increasing draw of traffic. People are driving to and from the mall, which means they are traveling north and east, and that has worked very well in the past. This problem has been seen in other locations, such as Logan at 23rd Street, where most people turn but some people unexpectedly go straight and safety is compromised. If traffic continues to increase, there will be an increased safety issue. Staff recommends an all-way stop be installed at this intersection. Nordholm advised that Commission members are to go out to the sites before the meeting to make informed decisions as to these issues. Newell added that speeds and volumes are as shown on the plat. The speeds are not abnormal for streets of this kind. They are both arterials, which means they are intended to carry a higher volume and speed of traffic than residential streets. Thelma L. Brilley, of 4888 Arbor Court, stated that Arbor, east of Oakland, was rebuilt recently and cars are driven faster. People are used to turning and going to the mall or coming back from the mall. It is used much, much more. A lot of the residents have almost been hit at this intersection, and that is why they ask that this be considered. John B. Hunt, of 4840 Arbor Court, believes that speeds have increased. Cars travelin,g west go 60 or 65 mph. He suggested that the police be asked to patrol the area. It is posted 35 mph. Others believe it is 30 mph. He sees all the traffic coming through the area, and he believes an additional stop sign will help. Newell stated that, according to State statute, the speed limit is 55 mph west of the subdivision. Dwight Rauer, of 4803 Arbor Court, has heard that the builder is supposed to build more in the area, and this will make the volume of traffic increase. The need for a stop sign will be increased by that time. Don W. Soper, Sr., of 4887 Arbor Court, believes a church that is going to be built on Oakland and Hickory Point Road will increase the traffic on Sunday as well.