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2008-12-11 Bicycle & Pedestrian_PACKET
CITY OF ASHLAND BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION Agenda Thursday, December 11", 2008 @ 5:15 P.M. Siskiyou Room @ 51 Winburn Way Community Development & Engineering Services Building CALL TO ORDER PRESENTATION OF AWARDS III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: October 16th, 2008 IV. PUBLIC FORUM - Business from the audience not included on the agenda. (Limited to 5 minutes per speaker and 15 minutes total.) V. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Subcommittee & Liaison Reports VI. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION Discussion of Transportation Commission & Bike Swap Funds Oak Street Fog Lines Interchange 14 Bridge Design Review Committee (beg. Jan. '09) Planning Action Update - HAJC/City Affordable Housing Proposal/CAT Planning Action New Business VII. ADJOURNMENT � Dui r i i• ��• ;;� i � � i.•� �. i i �. �,; rr :I1 Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission October 16th, 2008 Regular Minutes Roll Call: Chair David Young, Vice Chair Julia Sommer, Steve Ryan, and Tom Burnham. Secretary Jim Olney (absent) Council Liaison: Kate Jackson (absent) Staff: Steve McLennan, Police Officer Derek Severson, Associate Planner RVTD liaisons: Nathan Broom, RVTD TDM Planner SOU liaison: Eve Woods Traffic Safety Commission liaison: Matt Warshawsky High school liaison: Vacant Call to Order Chair Young called the meeting to order at 5:18 p.m. Approval of Minutes — September 18th . 2008 Ryan noted that in last month's Public Forum, Ms. Thiel had discussed the fact that she did not like sending her children to school over Ashland Street to access the Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB). The minutes were approved by unanimous consent as amended. Public Forum Traffic Safety Commission Matt Warshawsky questioned the status of the "Taking the Lane" recommendation going to Council, commented on the issue of the new Transportation Commission playing a role in land use decisions, and .discussed the potential for using "sharrows" and/or different colored pavement for bike lanes in Ashland. He noted that bike lanes in Portland have recently been painted green. Subcommittee & Liaison Reports Burnham noted that he had now met with Jenna Stanke from Jackson County twice to discuss creating a county -wide bicycling map. He stated that at this point, funding the maps is a concern. He explained that the hope was to produce one map that would work for all jurisdictions, to be distributed in print and on-line. Members questioned the costs involved, asking whether it would be to offset printing costs or if it would also include staff time to prepare the map. Young questioned if the maps might be created on-line only. Members also asked whether the map would be sold or offered for free. Burnham noted that they have asked Siskiyou Velo for $1,000 to assist with the cost of preparing the maps. He questioned who to coordinate with at the city to request funds. Severson suggested that it would require more detail before making a request, including specific costs and details of the map. There was discussion of 2008-1016 Bike & Ped minutes Page I off using Google Earth/Google Maps to prepare and present the map, and also of ensuring that it was GPS ready. Woods noted that ECOS students from the University might be of assistance, noting that a lot of seniors have the appropriate skill set and are looking for capstone projects. It was also suggested that Burnham could approach the local Chambers of Commerce for funding as well. Broom presented the monthly RVTD ridership report. He also noted that he has been in discussion with a new bike rack supplier and they have a new model of three -bike rack which may fit the buses in RVTD's fleet. He added that they are looking at the possibility of additional racks inside the buses and at modifying their tracking to include cyclists who are unable to ride due to full bike racks. He pointed out that RVTD will be bringing forth a ballot measure in support of transit in the spring, and clarified for commissioners that the fare box revenue from the buses is a small and limited source of revenue so even a significant increase in ridership does not fund increased service levels. Broom noted that he had posted information on new bicycle commuter tax credits on the Rogue Utility Bike group on Google, and could provide additional information to those who were interested. Ryan noted that he had attended last month's Traffic Safety Commission (TSC) meeting which included a discussion of skateboarding in the bike lane on Siskiyou which became legal with the reduced speeds. He added that he had passed along Elise Thiel's concerns about CAB access for residents of the Wingspread mobile home park, and he discussed the Engineering Department's proposal for addressing bollards with striping and candlesticks. Woods noted that she had tabled at eight events over the past month, and that she was acting as a student leadership liaison as well. She had the opportunity to speak on Siskiyou safety for 35 minutes at an SOU event, and that she now had 58 students who were interested in a safety club. Car Free Day, Commute Challenge, Try Transit & Walk/Bike to School Debriefings Ryan noted that the Commute Challenge resulted in a reduction of more than 700 vehicle miles traveled in Ashland, and indicated that he was in the process of preparing a packet for next year's organizers. He stated that he would issue a follow-up press release and would also provide Severson final numbers for the City Source and/or city employee newsletter. Broom stated that on the fare free day of Try Transit week there was an increase in ridership of 700 riders, but added that the interactive bus tour participation was disappointingly low at some of the stops. He added that 68 helmets and 58 pedometers were given away as part of the event. Broom indicated that valley -wide, approximately 1,200 students participated in International Walk and Bike to School Day activities in ten elementary schools in Central Point, Ashland, Talent and Medford. Wingspread Mobile Home Park/Central Ashland Bikepath Access Follow -Up Severson provided some brief background on this item, noting that a Wingspread resident spoke last month requesting that the Commission look at ways to provide residents with access to the Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB). He explained that in reviewing county records, there did not appear to be any unused easements that could be used to provide access. He noted that recent 1008-1016 Bike & Ped minutes Page 2 of 4 discussions of the proposed development at the old Handyman site at 2200 Ashland Street had included a recognition of the need to look at CAB access points in the Transportation System Plan so that when developments occur, applicants could be required to provide easements as part of the required transportation system improvements. He concluded that with no development proposed and the added complications of the adjacent property being located under Jackson County's jurisdiction and ODOT Rail's control of the railroad right-of-way, he saw no way of providing new formal access easements. Ryan/Burnham m/s to recommend that the need for access to the Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB) for Wingspread residents be considered in future Transportation System Plan (TSP) updates or other long range transportation planning. Discussion: Young noted that he was supportive of finding a resolution to this matter, but it did not appear that there was an avenue to provide the requested connectivity at this time. Ryan expressed frustration with not being able to deal with the problem, and indicated that he thought it was at least important to make Jackson County authorities aware of the problem as well. Voice vote: All AYES. Motion passed. Bollard Discussion Follow -Up Severson briefly explained that the Engineering Department had proposed at last month's Traffic Safety Commission meeting to address the bollard safety issue/bollard removal recommendation by painting diamond stripes around the bollards and installing "candlesticks" at the points of the diamond in order to provide advanced warning to cyclists. He expressed some concern with the use of the candlesticks as an additional hazard that might catch in pedals or spokes and cause problems for cyclists. Commissioners concurred, indicating that it wasn't the bollard impact that was the problem it was the placement of items in the bikeway which lead to an impact with the pavement. Severson added that he had contacted the Oregon Pedestrian and Bicycle Program Manager to inquire about her experiences with the diamond striping and whether thermoplastic painted stripes were slippery when wet and thus hazardous to cyclists. He stated that she was generally in favor of bollard removal as bollards were a safety concern and were being removed in many communities around the state with no observed negative impacts; however he noted that she stated that bollards may be needed in those instances where there was a history of vehicular use of the bikepath. He suggested that bollards may have been installed in response to the initial complaints in areas beyond those where a problem was being experienced and that this could be looked at more closely. Warshawsky indicated that the Engineering Department and new Public Works Director were concerned with safety and liability and he did not believe they would be inclined to support removal of bollards. Young noted that he continued to believe that it would be safer to install a fence or gate across the path which would require cyclists to stop and walk around. Severson noted that in many instances, the installation of a gate within the limited right-of-way for a bicycle path would result in restricting handicapped accessibility. Sommer noted that she was never aware of bollards prior to the discussion, but now she not only sees them but sees them as a safety concern. 2008-1016 Bike & Ped minutes Page 3 of 4 Severson summarized that staff could look further at the potential for removing bollards where possible, i.e. where they were not necessary to prevent vehicular access to the path, and to stripe the area around the bollards that need to remain according to AASHTO standards. He clarified that this striping should not include candlesticks. There was general consensus in support of this summation. Developing an Ashland Bicycle Master Plan Severson explained that Council Liaison Jackson had wanted this item included on the agenda, based on the "Bicycle Friendly Community" recommendations of the League of American Bicyclists. He briefly explained the variety of information which can be included in such a plan, and noted the advantages of presenting all bicycling related information for a community — including parking requirements, a prioritized list of improvement recommendations, etc. — in one place. He noted that he had a sample of a plan from the City of Eugene, and stated that if there was sufficient interest he could provide links to a number of other plans to help a subcommittee work on this item. Sommer asked to borrow the City of Eugene plan, and stated that she was interested in working on this item. Burnham noted that a lot of the bike route research he had done relating to mapping would translate into this item and stated that he was interested as well. Severson state that he would forward links to the various sample plans. New Business It was noted that the stop signs on the Central Ashland Bikepath (CAB) at Mountain Avenue were faded and in need of replacement or re -painting. It was also noted that while the new railroad crossing at East Main is much improved, the lane markings now direct cyclists into the curb rather than to the curb cut. Severson indicated that he would pass these items along to the Engineering and Street Departments. Severson noted that the Council study session on the creation of a Transportation Commission was occurring next Monday, October 20th at 6:00 p.m. He stated that he would forward the final draft version of the proposed ordinance to the Commissioners for review, and asked that they either attend the meeting or forward comments or concerns to him. Warshawsky suggested that Commissioners review the changes closely to verify that previously raised concerns have been addressed to their satisfaction. Severson noted that the regularly occurring meetings for the next two months fall exactly one week before Thanksgiving and Christmas. The regularly scheduled November meeting is the 20th and Thanksgiving is the 271h; the regularly scheduled December meeting is the 18th, and Christmas is the 251h. Young noted that he would be unable to attend the November meeting. Warshawsky noted that Traffic Safety typically combines their November and December meetings into one consolidated meeting. Young suggested consolidating the two meetings into one early December meeting. Severson indicated that he would contact members via e-mail in order to arrive at a date and time that worked for everyone's schedule. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. 2008-1016 Bike & Ped minutes Page 4 of 4 g o & 9 o 0 0 M >>mo 0 c = M CL CL //I O2> o m c ■ 0 CD $ 3 7 � 2 8 CD ■ 0 M CD AA#■k 9P70n2 P000- w///mCD $%$Ic 0 o w o m CL = c N3_0 n o 7 Ul 0 , % $ % § W CO c = - r7 n ƒƒ �7 E - - k■ kkm0CDJ I § 80 w 6 a Sr' ///■� E C CO / o o M 0■ kk/k \ �k�Ed ;a - a AAA■ W ©■ ■ �oQ=r / / / ' g -01 CO0d, C)SSto o� o a o o O n . _ �P=E 0 m = to k % ■ 0 cw:�� ///■� 0 q \Q % E CL E � -a' a 0 a Page 1 of 1 Derek Severson - New bike/ped column From: "Nathan Broom" <n.broom@rvtd.org> To: "Derek Severson" <dereks@ashland.or.us>, <kate@council.ashland.or.us>, "Tom and Nancy Burnham" <ntburnham@gmail.com>, <dyoung@jeffnet.org>, <olneyjt@mind.net>, <juliasommer@yahoo.com>, <resolutionvideo@yahoo.com> Date: 11/11/2008 1:37 PM Subject: New bike/ped column CC: "Steve MacLennan" <SteveM@ashland.or.us>, <davidchapman@ashlandhome.net>, <ashland@azeotech.com>, <eve_woods@hotmail.com>, <katsmith78@hotmail.com>, <colin@mind.net>, <egon@mind.net>, <n.broom@rvtd.org> Hello all, if you glanced through the Sneak Preview this weekend, you might have seen the new bike/ped column I'm writing in there.A I don't know if it'll be in the Ashland edition every month, but I'm posting it here as well:A http://roguerambler.blogspot.com/ This column came about as a result of the Medford BPAC looking for avenues to get more media hits for biking and walking. Good Tuesday, Nathan file://C:\Documents and Settings\seversod\Local Settings\Temp\GW}000O1.HTM 11/12/2008 Page 1 of 1 Derek Severson - Bike and Ped. Packets !w,unrR�urwamkisuru��ri�u�omurrw�umo��a�Nwr�,°+� ua��arr�rriiuw�w�e�omuu��ua�rdnw��io�w�m�a uPort�H¢�rmra�a�n re�p�e�a�v�u���;�w�rv�m�mi�ou�i�����m���m�uu¢u�hmo�m�a�uar���a��+�ru�;�m�a��mrr�u��w�in�����s��mai�rirm���ri��a��+ri�v�,�u�rauuwmmi�u�!;aa�m�r From: "Kat Smith" <k.smith@rvtd.org> To: <seversod@ashland.or.us> Date: 11/12/2008 2:38 PM Subject: Bike and Ped. Packets Derek — Can you please include this in the next packet? How's life treating you? The Ashland CarShare Member Drive is for sure happening on Dec. 14 from 2-5pm. I hope you can make it:) Kat Transportation Options Coordinator RVTD 541.608.2423 541.326.7517 "Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride." file://C:\Documents and Settings\seversod\Local Settings\Temp\GW}OOOOI.HTM 11/13/2008 CITY OF Memo -ASHLAND Date: November 21, 2 08 From: James Olson' To: Traffic Safety Commission, Siskiyou Ad Hoc Committee, Mike Faught Re: SISKIYOU BV PEDESTRIAN SAFETY UPDATE Following is a brief summary of actions taken on the Siskiyou Boulevard Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project since October 16, 2008 1. Pedestrian -Activated Flashing Beacon Installation The installation of pedestrian activated flashing beacons is now complete. These solar - powered amber -colored beacons are located at the Bridge Street, Avery Street and University Way crosswalks. Each of these crosswalks is equipped with one beacon head for each lane of travel for a total of twelve (12) beacon heads. The flashing beacons at each crosswalk is controlled by push button located on each side of the crosswalk. The beacons were installed as a joint effort by City Public Works crews and Electric Department crews. The total cost for the beacon materials was $55,601.11. %� On site observation has shown that the use of the beacons by SOU students is much less than 100%. It is hoped that in time their use will become more common. Toward this end, the attached press release has been prepared regarding the use and activation of the beacons. 2. Work Completed by HDR In September the City contracted with HDR Engineering to conduct a safety study of Siskiyou Boulevard and to offer a third party unbiased review of the proposed actions. In early October HDR conducted pedestrian and vehicle turn movement counts on the unsignalized crosswalks within the campus area to determine current traffic trends and requirements. On November 20 HDR provided a draft technical memo listing possible future improvements to increase pedestrian safety on Siskiyou Boulevard. This memo was thoroughly reviewed by staff and several corrections, edits and additions were suggested. These changes were transmitted to HDR on November 21, 2008. Evan Dust from HDR and David Parisi from Parisi & Associates will be on hand at the December 3, 2008 meeting to present their memo and respond to questions and suggestions. The findings of the December 3'd Ad Hoc Committee meeting will be discussed at the December 4, 2008 Traffic Safety Commission meeting. ENGINEERING DIVISION Tel:541/488.5347 20 E. Main Street Fax: 541/488.6006 Ashland OR 97520 TTY: 8001735-29W www.ashland.orms rpiliall G:\pub-wrks\eng\dept-admin\TRAF\Siskiyou Safety\Siskiyou Blvd Update 11 08.doc 3. Street Lighting The Electric Department has received a sample of an improved lighting globe which will be V; put into use on Siskiyou Boulevard. The new globe will provide additional watts of illumination with a reduced cost. The new light will be compared to adjacent lights for brightness, glare, direction of light, etc. ENGINEERING DIVISION Tel:541/488.5347 20 E. Main Street Fax: 541I488-M A�\ Ashland OR 97520 TTY: 800835-2900 www.ashland.or.us G:\pub-wrks\eng\dept-admin\TRAF\Siskiyou Safety\Siskiyou Blvd Update 11 08.doc CITY OF -1SHLAND News Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, PLEASE DATE: November 21, 2008 CONTACT: Mike Faught, Public Works Direction, City of Ashland, 541 488-5587 Installation of Pedestrian -Activated Beacons on Siskiyou Boulevard Complete City of Ashland Public Works and Electric Department crews have completed the installation of the pedestrian -activated beacons. Beacons are now operational at three Siskiyou Boulevard intersections: Bridge Street, Avery Street and Palm Avenue. With the installation of pedestrian -activated beacons, pedestrians can push a button to activate a flashing yellow caution light to make drivers aware that the crosswalk is in use. The beacons will flash only when activated by a pedestrian intending to cross. Using the Beacons For Pedestrians — Be Aware, Be Safe and Be Considerate The flashing beacons are not a traffic signal, and drivers are not required to stop if they cannot do so safely. These beacons provide you with a way to make approaching drivers aware that you are or will be using the crosswalk. After activating the beacon, you still need to use caution, check to make sure that drivers in each lane are aware of your presence and that vehicles are able to stop before you enter the lane. Please look for approaching traffic before stepping into any crosswalk. For Drivers — Be Aware, Be Safe and Be Considerate If you see a flashing beacon, it has been activated by a pedestrian entering the crosswalk. State law requires drivers to stop if they can do so safely, and remain stopped until pedestrians have cleared the City of Ashland Tel: 541488-6002 20 East Main Street Fax: 541488-5311 M Ashland, Oregon 97520 TTY: 800-735-2900 www.ashland.onus porra'AM&A G:Ipub-wrkslengldept-adminlTRAFISiskiyou Safety\Siskiyou Beacon Press Release 1121 08.doc lane which the driver is traveling as well as the adjacent lane. Passing another vehicle stopped at a crosswalk to permit a pedestrian to cross is a violation of Oregon state law, and can result in serious injury or death for the pedestrian. Background Recent pedestrian injuries, including a fatality last spring, prompted an in-depth look at pedestrian safety on Siskiyou Boulevard adjacent to Southern Oregon University (SOU). The Ashland Traffic Safety Commission and the recently formed mayor -appointed Ad Hoc Siskiyou Safety Committee are working to identify potential pedestrian safety improvements on Siskiyou Boulevard. The Traffic Safety Commission identified five specific recommendations to improve safety along Siskiyou Boulevard: 1) Install rumble strips on Siskiyou near SOU. (These were installed in April.) 2) Reduce the speed limit to 25 mph along Siskiyou Boulevard. (The speed limit reduction went into effect in June.) 3) Install pedestrian -activated beacons. 4) Consider changes to the existing streetlights (SOU will install pedestrian scale lighting along Siskiyou Boulevard on the south sidewalk between University Way and Wightman. Existing street lighting will be reviewed and revised as needed to maximize illumination while minimizing glare to drivers.) 5) Form an ad hoc committee to identify, pursue and plan for long-term pedestrian safety improvements. A priority of the committee is to evaluate the intersection of Siskiyou Boulevard and Garfield Streets. (The Siskiyou Safety Ad Hoc Committee has been meeting regularly since June. This committee has begun traffic studies with the assistance of a traffic engineer to evaluate the need for further safety measures, including potential modifications to the Garfield intersection.) (end) city of Ashland Tel:54IA88-6002 �. 20 East Main Street Fax: 541ABB-5311 Ashland, Oregon 97520 TTY: 800-735-2900 www.ashland.or.us G:1pub-wrkslengldept-admin\TRAFISiskiyou Safety\Siskiyou Beacon Press Release 1121 08.doc Al IA H E c YI 16 O = O 9Lcm y • ............................... 0 Y. z 0 < r 1. M N 7 Y L O E t0 9 0.40)0 YY N ' N NCo.p, c a c • lam ae e a;02 Y� N_ O W —y U0, 6L.LLW N ijto N e0 �+ to • Y ° 3 ��^ °° E °' a a�i a c E 'n42 C C C d S 3 o en o • �• a d.^ C R p ed G. O� w H O H ��° O C .r c.i � O a. E N 7) y S C .�..1C e�Y i ,C p •�^, p> Gyi y H 00 cd N .G O y 0 O `� ed O> y ed Or F ;v 'O c a 80 is •C afOi o N C �. ' ed V] w0 y O O •b p r '� `� G> eC7 E o E� E ra 3 o c o a o ... 3 ' Leo c° •? '>; c0 v' N O U LC, E c 'G v' y U > N A �. O O ... 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A� ' dRbq p•�Nai oo c«cG " rn c OcR0 a dN'O >y '>�vy0>i cy`wC° •�$°ppby y 3 u N y • as • .E� • p ° °'�, • y 0 �' O 0 N m c a `o y >°,c.w 0Uw 4+ L a e •y -St fn 'o R v y 1y. a eo pC1 cwd d > N U O G .� Ei •° ° '• i 00 �'' Y '� `y' •5 x c y E � ° rn C .Q �' .'••. O VI -0y 'D U U y Q y° W o d A o p �� �• 0 y ° N A O R Oyu U � � � � " R G • � R U O -is E� u0i� r•y F >� C e0e s aFy EPu E R O 'O w O O 0. v b0 c° u•E• 7r a A o a fl u v,CA R Om L y °0 0 d C R fn a 0. y 6� COO 3 U r L 16• 0 3 C U as V r U Cto ? w R U G V � •d ... • � ;: c0.i 0X R C 0 a� y dFw IA El p.o� u a .. '. E a?R y 0ig Ter,E N N Oy R U.14 oG ay °?� 3 5 _ en a« aEia Executive Summary Siskiyou Boulevard, between Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street, is subject to substantial pedestrian activity. Within these limits, a portion of Southern Oregon University's campus is on the west side of Siskiyou Boulevard and residential neighborhoods, as well as limited commercial developments, are located on the east side. While Siskiyou Boulevard's intersections with Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street are both signalized, there are four unsignalized intersections between them — each served with uncontrolled crosswalks across Siskiyou Boulevard. The City of Ashland has proactively implemented a number of pedestrian safety measures through the years, including comprehensive educational and enforcement programs. Siskiyou Boulevard, including the study segment, was completely redesigned in 2003 and incorporates many pedestrian enhancements, including separated sidewalks, high -visibility crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, signing, special pavement markings, and lighting. In the Fall of 2008, the City installed temporary flashing beacons at three of the uncontrolled crosswalks. HDR Engineering, in association with Parisi Associates Transportation Consultants, was contracted with the City to suggest additional treatments that could be considered over time to address pedestrian safety. HDR conducted field reviews and developed a list of specific educational, enforcement and engineering measures that the City could consider in the short-term (within the next two years), as well as in the longer -range (after the next two years). As part of HDR's assessment, two alternative engineering concepts were developed to address the Siskiyou Boulevard/Garfield Street intersection. Page i Summary of Pedestrian Safety Enhancements Implemented on Siskiyou Boulevard This section identifies the pedestrian safety enhancements that exist along Siskiyou Boulevard between Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street. Detailed descriptions of most of the enhancements listed below are provided in the last section of this report. Summary of Pedestrian Safety Enhancements A€ivarice limit lines Advance limit lines, also known as "stop bars", are in place in advance of the four uncontrolled crosswalks (Palm Avenue/University Way, Garfield Street, Avery Street, and Bridge Street). One or two "stop here for pedestrian" signs complement each of the limit lines. Bicycle lades Six-foot wide bicycle lanes were installed along Siskiyou Boulevard in 2003. Previously, no marked bicycle lanes were present. Crosswalks Between and including Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street, there are seven crosswalks across Siskiyou Boulevard. There are crosswalks across the north and south legs of Siskiyou Boulevard at Mountain Avenue and at Wightman Street/Indiana Street. All of the crosswalks across Siskiyou Boulevard are laid out in a staggered continental fashion, i.e., a series of high -visibility two -foot wide white stripes longitudinal to the traffic lanes. All of the crosswalks across Siskiyou Boulevard's cross -streets are standard crosswalk bars, i.e., one -foot wide lines tangential to the traffic lanes. Cutrb ruinps Curb ramps were constructed at each crosswalk as a part of the Siskiyou Boulevard project in 2003. Fleveri-foot wide travel lanes As a part of the Siskiyou Boulevard projects in 2003 the through traffic lanes on the roadway were narrowed from 12 feet to 11 feet. Flashing 1wacotis Pedestrian actuated yellow flashing beacons, with yellow pedestrian warning signs, were recently installed at three of the four uncontrolled crosswalks, as a temporary measure. The beacons were generally installed at three locations at each crosswalk: on the'west side of the roadway for southbound traffic, on the east side for northbound traffic, and in the raised center median with beacons facing both Page 4 directions of traffic. However, since no median exists at the Garfield Street crosswalk due to the presence of left -turn lanes, no beacons were installed at this crossing location.' Or°aiige flags Orange flags, and holders, are provided on both sides of Siskiyou Boulevard to serve all of the uncontrolled crosswalks within the study area. The flags are meant for use by pedestrians when crossing Siskiyou Boulevard. Paveinent legends for pedestrians Pedestrian crossing stencils consisting of a pedestrian symbol and "XING" are located on the street pavement in advance of the Bridge Street crosswalk for northbound traffic and in advance of the University Way crosswalk for southbound traffic. The stencils are located in each traffic lane. Several white longitudinal rumble strips are provided across the pavement in advance of and following the stencils. Pedestrian ptishbutton ti°eatnien.ts Pedestrian push buttons are provided to activate the pedestrian signals at Siskiyou Boulevard's signalized intersections with Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street. Pedestr-ian a°eftrge isiaztt'ds The 14-foot wide raised center median installed as a part of the Siskiyou Boulevard project in 2003 is used for pedestrian crossing refuge for those crossing Siskiyou Boulevard at Palm Avenue/University Way and at Avery Street (the median prohibits vehicular left -turns into and from these streets). There is no pedestrian refuge island at Garfield Street due to the presence of left -turn lanes. The crosswalk at Bridge Street is adjacent to the median island in order to allow vehicles to turn left from Bridge Street onto Siskiyou Boulevard:,, Sidewalks Five-foot wide sidewalks, separated by seven -foot wide landscaped buffer zone, exist along both sides of Siskiyou Boulevard between Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street. Sidewalks also exist along most of the cross -streets. Signs to pr•ornpt rrrotol'ists "Stop here for pedestrian" signs are located adjacent to the advance limit lines for the four uncontrolled crosswalks. Where there is a raised center median, two "stop here for pedestrian" signs are used (one on the right side of the road and one in the median). At Garfield Street, left -turn lanes substitute for the raised center median, so one "stop here for pedestrian" sign is used along the right side of the road. 1 During discussions with City staff regarding the temporary installation of the flashing beacons, it was agreed that beacons at the Siskiyou/Garfield intersection would require overhead installation which could not easily be accomplished as a temporary installation. For that reason, a temporary flashing beacon at this location was not provided. Treatments for this intersection are discussed in detail on Page 9. Page 5 Yellow pedestrian warning signs exist in advance of each of the four uncontrolled crosswalks. Yellow pedestrian warning signs also are affixed to the recently installed flashing beacons at each of the uncontrolled crosswalk locations. The speed limit along Siskiyou Boulevard between Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street is 25 mph. Several speed limit signs are posted along Siskiyou Boulevard. Roadway lighting iinprovements Roadway lighting exists along Siskiyou Boulevard's raised center median as well as on the north and side of the street at intersections. Overhead light standards are present in all four quadrants of the Mountain Street, Palm Avenue/University Way, Garfield Street, and Wightman Street/Indiana Street intersections. Overhead lights exist above the crosswalks on both sides of Siskiyou Boulevard at Avery Street, Bridge Street, Garfield Street and at University Way/Palm Avenue. Generally, all of the existing crossings reviewed in this study meet existing engineering design standards and should be effective in providing a specific, expected location for. pedestrians to cross Siskiyou Boulevard. Page 6 Potential Pedestrian Treatments for Consideration Based upon a review of existing pedestrian and traffic conditions, previously implemented pedestrian safety enhancements, and a review of potential additional treatments that may be applicable to Siskiyou Boulevard (see next section for detailed descriptions), a list of short-term and longer -range actions are provided for further consideration. Potential Shoat -term Considerations The following actions should be considered for implementation within the next two years: • Several practices and programs should be considered, including development of an annual monitoring program, preparation of safety tips, and conduct of periodic crosswalk reviews, enforcement details, and pedestrian counts. As a part of education and community involvement, the provision of billboards and electronic message boards, public service announcements, brochures, pamphlets, and newsletters should be considered. This could be accomplished by developing a citywide "Street Smarts" type of communications and media program. Education programs aimed at Southern Oregon University students should be developed. Several enforcement approaches should be considered, including potential ordinance changes (e.g., revisiting the fine schedule for motorists who do not stop for pedestrians), reviewing and modifying laws affecting pedestrians, and conducting pedestrian sting operations. The city should consider studying the effectiveness of the current distances separating the advance limit lines from the uncontrolled crosswalk markings. If it is determined that some advance limit lines are too close or too far from the crosswalks for full effectiveness, the lines should be relocated. Use of 24-inch lines in lieu of 12-inch lines should be considered. Low profile reflectors should be considered to provide additional visibility, especially in dark conditions, at the uncontrolled crosswalks. If used, they must be embedded into the pavement so that they are not damaged by snowplows. The City should develop a monitoring plan to study the effectiveness of the recently installed flashing beacons. A plan could include monitoring motorist compliance of stopping for pedestrians. If it is determined, after a specific trial period, that other warning devices may be more effective, the City should consider replacement of the beacons (see next section). Consideration should be given to replacing all yellow warning signs pertaining to pedestrians and bicyclists with high visibility signs in reflective fluorescent yellow -green color. 10 Pavement legends should be considered in advance of each uncontrolled crosswalk. The City should consider roadway lighting improvements at the uncontrolled crosswalk locations, including provision of brighter lighting. Page 7 • At Siskiyou Boulevard's intersections with Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street, which are both signalized, consideration should be given to providing special signal timing for pedestrians, including the implementation of leading pedestrian phases for the pedestrian movements across Siskiyou Boulevard. • Sign plates indicating "AHEAD" should be considered to supplement the advance pedestrian crosswalk warning signs to prompt motorists. • Various signs to prompt pedestrians should be considered as means to convey to pedestrians the proper techniques to use when crossing the street. Potential Longer -range Considerations The following actions should be considered for implementation after the next two years: • The City should continue and enhance its education and community involvement program described under short-term considerations. • Accessible pedestrian signals should be considered for installation at Siskiyou Boulevard's intersections with Mountain Avenue and Wightman Street/Indiana Street. (See page 18 for description). • If the recently installed flashing beacons do not turn out to be as effective as desired, the City should consider study and installation of alternative measures at the uncontrolled crosswalks, such as in -roadway warning lights, high intensity activated crosswalk (HAWK) or rectangular - shaped rapid flash LED beacons. • A pedestrian refuge island should provided to assist pedestrians crossing Siskiyou Boulevard at Garfield Street (alternative designs to consider are discussed on page 9) • If vehicular speeding is identified as an issue, the City should consider installation of radar speed display signs at appropriate locations. • Provision of slightly raised crosswalks at uncontrolled locations could be considered as a long- range measure. A study would need to be undertaken to assess potential impacts to various users, including emergency response vehicles traveling along Siskiyou Boulevard. • A study could be undertaken to determine the feasibility of putting Siskiyou Boulevard on a road diet. One road diet option could require widening of the median, extending the curbs on the side of the street inward, or both; while another option could restripe the street to allow one though lane, a bike lane, and a parking lane in each direction, along with the addition of pedestrian curb extensions. Further examination of a road diet for Siskiyou Boulevard should be conducted concurrent with an overall Transportation System Plan (TSP) update that can explore the role and function of Siskiyou Boulevard with consideration of the expected traffic volumes and land use goals of the City. Page 8 Garfield Street / Siskiyou Boulevard Intersection During the development of plans for the temporary installation of flashing beacons at the Palm Avenue/University Way, Garfield Street, Avery Street, and Bridge Street intersections, the Garfield Street intersection was problematic because the crosswalk is located on the north leg of Siskiyou Boulevard and the raised center median is not continuous due to the presence of a left -turn lane serving SOU. This intersection would have required an overhead installation of the beacons (e.g., via span wires or mast arms) which is difficult to accomplish as a temporary measure. As part of this study, vehicle turning movement counts were taken at this intersection during the morning and evening peak periods (7 — 9 a.m. and 4 — 6 p.m.). The tabulation of the count information is provided in Appendix A. The Siskiyou Ad -Hoc Safety Committee has considered this intersection and suggested changes to it. As part of this study, the existing layout of the intersection was reviewed and Figure 2 presents the existing condition. Figures 3 and 4 present two optional treatments for consideration by the City. Option A: Relocation of Crosswalk to South Leg of Siskiyou with Installation of Raised Median (Figure 3) In this option, the existing northbound left -turn lane to the SOU parking area driveway would be closed as the center median is extended. The crosswalk would be relocated to the south leg of Siskiyou Boulevard and be perpendicular to Siskiyou Boulevard. The extension of the raised median would provide the opportunity for additional street lighting located in the median. The southbound-to- eastbound left turn lane for vehicles turning into Garfield Street would not be changed. Advantages: • Provides positive protection and refuge for pedestrians at mid -point of Siskiyou Boulevard. • The crossing distance is reduced by the perpendicular relationship of the crosswalk to Siskiyou Boulevard. • Would preclude existing northbound heavy truck movements to SOU loading area which currently travel the "wrong way" for a short distance to reach the SOU driveway north of Garfield Street on the west side of Siskiyou Boulevard. Disadvantages: • May require elimination of some on -street parking along Garfield Street for yellow centerline restriping. • Removes northbound left -turn access to the SOU parking area. The traffic counts indicate that on a typical weekday, 34 vehicles make the northbound left -turn during the entire morning two- hour peak period and no vehicles were observed making that northbound left -turn during the two-hour evening peak period. Note: it is not recommended to permit left -turns from the inside Page 9 through lane on this option as such an allowance would be inconsistent with left -turn treatments along the study segment of Siskiyou Boulevard and safety issues could result. Option B: Relocation of Crosswalk to South Leg of Siskiyou with Installation of Refuge Island (Figure 4) In this option, the existing northbound left -turn lane to the SOU parking area driveway would be channelized with a raised, pedestrian refuge island. The crosswalk would be staggered such that the crosswalk across the northbound approach on Siskiyou Boulevard is farther south than the crosswalk across the southbound lanes. The south bound -to -eastbound left turn lane for vehicles turning into Garfield Street would have its limit line relocated to the north. Advantages: • Maintains left -turn to SOU parking area. • Provides positive protection and refuge for pedestrians at mid -point of Siskiyou Boulevard. • The crossing distance is reduced by the perpendicular relationship of the crosswalk to Siskiyou Boulevard. • Would preclude existing northbound heavy truck movements to SOU loading area which currently travel the "wrong way" for a short distance to reach the SOU driveway north of Garfield Street on the west side of Siskiyou Boulevard. Disadvantages: • May require elimination of some on -street parking along Garfield Street for yellow centerline restriping. If either option above, or others, are selected for further design work, consideration would need to be given to vehicle turning needs. The illustrations provided on pages 12 and 13 are schematic only and actual designs would likely differ somewhat. There may be significant advantages to pursuing further access management on Siskiyou Boulevard. This issue should be examined in the context of an overall TSP update where the role and function of Siskiyou Boulevard can be reviewed. Page 10 2— Existing Conditions CITY NSHLAND 40 80 160 Existing Conditions i 3 — Option A CITY OF AS H LA N D 40 80 160 Pedestrian Refuge Without Left -turn Pocket (Option A) Realign centedine on Garfield Stre� t ","Remove exisfin crosswalk a,. Install high visibility crosswalk w th pedestrian refuge island Install crossing beacons,and �ighage, as opropt ni ver5it 16 4 —Option B C I TY O F NSHLAND 40 80 160 Pedestrian Refuge With Left -turn Pocket (Option B) v co rn co -4 V7 � v D � m N O Do A O 0) 4h, 4�1 Cn c z O co 4 N CCn cn o O A O v O Cn m CD cn c -i c cn c -i =r CD � = cn v cn 0)= CL ° CD = a m - CD .� o 0 r M. O m D 2 c Q 3 N v cn a1 = cn T00 0 cD CD = O- N 7 p O m m CD cn o (n U (D = C� .CD y. CD :3 (D z ° O CD � � ° � Om o C v z c o n ; O D < Z r CD CD c• CD _n c o CD o CDy � cn c a •o r. 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O O 5' w c CD O c N' w y n Cp -+ c S N v CL o m CAD O � o � a c y m CDC CD m CU O 7� n• y O y O a `` O CD '• O -� n X o? y m ill Co CD v CD 0 Cc m TI CD v ? 0) cc n 7 o CD o y m � a y n5 CD o D 0 Q y CD n y CD aCD a y N � O C' O O 7 CD < 7 =r O O < CD(D 7 O O CD 0 CD=r O N O 7 Q Vl b N O O 00 CITY OF ASH LAN D Memo Date: December 11, 2008 Derek Severson, Associate Planner From: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission Staff Liaison To: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commissioners Re: Transportation Commission & Bike Swap Funds I'm attaching information that was emailed by City Recorder Barbara Christensen concerning logistics of the creation of the Transportation Commission, including the application form for those of you who are interested in serving on the new Commission. Indications from Barbara are that Mayor -elect John Stromberg hopes to have his appointments to the Commission ready for Council approval at the first Council meeting in February, meaning that he will need applications for review no later than December 19th (i.e. next Friday). One important element that has yet to be discussed is the issue of Bike Swap funds. As you all are aware, the funds generated from the Bike Swap are held by the Parks Foundation, a private non-profit affiliated with the Parks Department. These funds are intended to be used for bicycle and safety education programs including supporting BTA bicycle safety education programs in local schools, and to date the Parks Foundation has given the Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission an advisory role in the expenditure of these funds. Rachel Teige, Recreation Superintendent from the Parks and Recreation Department, will be in attendance at the meeting to discuss how these funds and programs can best be addressed in the transition to the Transportation Commission. Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission 51 Winburn Way Phone: 541.552.2040 VA Ashland OR 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050 www.ashland.or.us TTY: 800.735.2900 �_ Derek Severson - Transportation Commission - request for applications Page 1 From: Barbara christensen To: alan.bender@erau.edu; ashland@azeotech.com; blakel@sou.edu; colin@mind.net; DEMANNION@aol.com; dyoung@jeffnet.org; eric.heesacker@gmail.com; eve_woods@hotmail.com; juliasommer@yahoo.com; olneyit@mind.net; resolutionvideo@yahoo.com; tb1937@charter.net; terrydarc@yahoo.com Date: 12/1/08 5:01:16 PM Subject: Transportation Commission - request for applications Bike & Pedestrian Commissioners and Traffic Safety Commissioners: The ordinance repealing the Bike & Pedestrian Commission and Traffic Safety Commission and forming the Transportation Commission is effective December 17th. Our incoming Mayor Stromberg has asked that I contact all of you to ask if you would like to submit an updated application for consideration of appointment to this commission. Applications will also be accepted from the public. He has indicated that these appointments would be made at the first meeting in February on approval by the council. In order to do this, all applications would need to be submitted to my office no later than December 19th in order to allow enough time for review by both himself and council members. I have attached the adopted ordinance for your review as well as the application for appointment. You can submit the application to me via email if that is more convenient. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Thank you! Barbara Barbara Christensen City Recorder/Treasurer City of Ashland Ashland OR 97520 (541)488-5307 PUBLIC RECORDS LAW DISCLOSURE This is a public document and is subject to the Oregon Public Records Law. Messages to and from this email may be available to the public. CC: April Lucas; Bill Molnar; Derek Severson; Jim Olson; John Stromberg; Mike Faught; Nancy Slocum ORDINANCE NO. A9 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2, ADMINISTRATION, ADDING SECTION 2.13 TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION; REPEALING SECTION 2.22 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN COMMISSION AND REPEALING SECTION 2.26 TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION Annotated to show deletiens and additions to the code sections being modified. Deletions are bold lined thMuo and additions are in bold underline. WHEREAS, the City of Ashland wishes to modify its Code with regard to Administration by adding a Transportation Commission ordinance to more closely coordinate transportation related issues specifically as they relate to safety, planning, funding and advocacy for all modes of transportation; and WHEREAS, the City of Ashland wishes to reduce duplication by repealing in total Section 2.22 Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission and Section 2.26 Traffic Safety Commission; THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF ASHLAND DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. Repeal. Ashland Municipal Code 2.22 [Bicycle and Pedestrian Commission] is hereby repealed in its entirety. SECTION 2. Repeal. Ashland Municipal Code 2.26 [Traffic Safety Commission] is hereby repealed in its entirety. SECTION 3. New Section. Section 2.13 [Transportation Commission] is hereby added to the Ashland Municipal Code to read as follows: 2.13 Transportation Commission 2.13.010 Established - Generally. A. Role. The Transportation Commission advises the City Council on transportation related issues specifically as they relate to safety, planning, funding and advocacy for bicycles, transit, parking, pedestrian and all other modes of transportation. B. Mission. The need for a Transportation Commission is emphasized in the Transportation Element: "Ashland has a vision — to retain our small-town character even while we grow. To achieve this vision, we must proactively plan for a transportation system that is intearated into the community and enhances Ashland's Transportation Commission Ordinance Page 1 of 5 livability, character and natural environment. ...The focus must be on people being able to move easily through the city in all modes of travel. Modal equity then is more than lust a phase. It is a planning concept that does not necessarily imply equal financial commitment or equal percentage use of each mode, but rather ensures that we will have the opportunity to conveniently and safely use the transportation mode of our choice, and allow us to move toward a less auto -dependent community." C. Powers and Duties. Generally. The Transportation Commission will review and make recommendations on the following topics as it relates to all modes of Transportation: 1. Safety: will develop, coordinate and promote transportation safety programs; 2. Planning: Will review and serve as the primary body to develop recommendations to the City's long range transportation plans. Will review and make recommendations in Type III Planning Actions during the pre -application process. 3. Funding: will make recommendations to the City's transportation section of the Capital Improvements Program; 4. Advocacy: will advocate and promote all modes of transportation to make modal equity a reality. • Facilitate coordination of transportation issues with other governmental entities. • Select one or more member liaisons to attend and participate in meetings with other transportation related committees in the Rogue Valley. • Examine multi -modal transportation issues. D. Powers and Duties, Specifically. The Transportation Commission will review and forward all traffic implementation regulations to the Public Works Director for final approval and implementation of official traffic safety and functional activities. 2.13.020 Established — Membership. Transportation Commission Ordinance Page 2 of 5 A. Voting Members. The Transportation Commission shall consist of nine (9) voting members as designated by the Mayor and confirmed by the council. Voting members will all be members of the community at large and will represent a balance of interest in all modes of transportation. The Chair will be elected amonq its members annually. A vice chair will also be elected among its members to serve in the chair's absence and who will succeed to the chair on April 30 following the chair's term expiration. B. Non -voting Ex Officio Membership. The Director of Public Works or designee shall serve as the primary staff liaison and as Secretary of the Commission. Including the staff liaison, there will be eleven (11) total non- voting ex officio members who will participate as needed and will include one member of the Council as appointed by the Mayor, Community Development & Planning, Police, Fire, Southern Oregon University, Ashland Schools, Oregon Department of Transportation, Roque Valley Transportation District, Ashland Parks and Recreation, Jackson County Roads. In addition to the eleven non -voting ex officio members, a student member may be appointed and would serve as an additional non -voting ex officio member. 2.13.030 Term and Vacancies. B Initial Term Transition. Three of the nine members shall be appointed to initial terms expiring April 30, 2010: three of the nine shall be appointed to initial terms expiring April 30, 2011: and three shall be appointed to initial terms expiring April 30, 2012. Followinq these initial terms, all members shall serve for 3 year terms expiring April 30. C. Vacancy. Any vacancy shall be filled by appointment of the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council, for the unexpired portion of the term. Any commissioner who is absent without prior notification from four or more meetings in a 12 month period shall be considered no longer active and the position will be deemed vacant. 2.13.040 Quorum, Rules and Regulations. One more than half of the sitting voting members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum. The Commission shall meet monthly and at least ten times per calendar year. The Commission may recommend or make rules and regulations for its government and procedure, consistent with the laws of the State and the City Charter and ordinances. 2.13.050 Traffic Sub -Committee. Transportation Commission Ordinance Page 3 of 5 A. Purpose. The purpose of the Traffic Sub -Committee is to enable the Transportation Commission to focus on broad transportation concerns by reducing the number of routine and general non -routine traffic items that come before the full Commission and to insure the Transportation Commission will have sufficient time to devote their full attention to the overall transportation matters at issue. B. Membership. The Traffic Sub -Committee consists of three regular members of the Transportation Commission who shall sit concurrently on the full Commission. Sub -committee members shall be appointed by the Transportation Commission Chair on a rotating basis until all members have served. Terms are for six month intervals and members may only sit for two consecutive terms at any one time. The Public Works Director shall determine what matters warrant Sub -Committee involvement and meetings shall be convened on an as needed basis. The Public Works Director or designee will serve as staff liaison and recorder for these meetings. C. Duties. The Traffic Sub -Committee shall consider the following matters: 1. Forward recommendations to the Transportation Commission and Public Works Director on routine and general non -routine traffic concerns including but not limited to traffic impacts, speed designations, parking, markings, and sianage. 2. Recommend to the Transportation Commission specific comments, concerns or suggestions for the improvements to the City of Ashland's Transportation System Plan or similar Transportation programs, with the emphasis on long range transportation planning and regional transportation plans. 3. Such other general or minor transportation matters as the Transportation Commission deems appropriate for the Traffic Sub - Committee format. 4. The Traffic Sub -Committee or staff liaison may refer any matter before the Traffic Sub -Committee to the Transportation Commission when it becomes apparent the matter involves maior policy concerns or potential serious transportation impacts on surrounding areas. E. Minutes. All Traffic Sub -Committee action minutes will be forwarded to the following Transportation Commission meeting. 2.13.060 Reports. The commission shall submit copies of its minutes to the City Council and shall prepare and submit such reports as from time to time may be requested of them by the City Council, Public Works Director or Community Development Director. 2.13.070 Compensation. Transportation Commission Ordinance Page 4 of 5 Voting members of the commission shall receive no compensation for service on the Transportation Commission or Traffic Sub -Committee. SECTION 4. Severability. The sections, subsections, paragraphs and clauses of this ordinance are severable. The invalidity of one section, subsection, paragraph, or clause shall not affect the validity of the remaining sections, subsections, paragraphs and clauses. SECTION 5. Codification. Provisions of this Ordinance shall be incorporated in the City Code and the word "ordinance" may be changed to "code", "article", "section", "chapter" or another word, and the sections of this Ordinance may be renumbered, or re -lettered, provided however that any Whereas clauses and boilerplate provisions (i.e. Sections 4-5) need not be coded and the City Recorder is authorized to correct any cross-references and any typographical errors. The foregoing ordinance was first read by t le only in ac9prdancq with Article X, Section 2(C) of the City Charter on the day of ev �, 2008, and duly PASSED and ADOPTED this �_ day of QV ,w-- 2008. Barbara M. Christensen, City Recorder SIGNED and APPROVED this 'Al day of A��008 Reviewed as to form: 1 Richard Appi Cify' Attorney llill) Transportation Commission Ordinance Page 5 of 5 CITY OF ASHLAND APPLICATION FOR APPOINTMENT TO CITY COMMISSION/COMMITTEE Please type or print answers to the following questions and submit to the City Recorder at City Hall, 20 E Main Street, or email christeb(a,ashland.onus. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the City Recorder at 488-5307. Attach additional sheets if necessary. Name Requesting to serve on: Address Occupation 1. _Education Background What schools have you attended? What degrees do you hold? (Commission/Committee) Phone: Home Work Email Fax What additional training or education have you had that would apply to this position? 2. Related Experience What prior work experience have you had that would help you if you were appointed to this position? Do you feel it would be advantageous for you to have further training in this field, such as attending conferences or seminars? Why? 3. Interests Why are you applying for this position? . Availability Are you available to attend special meetings, in addition to the regularly scheduled meetings? Do you prefer day or evening meetings? 5. Additional Information How long have you lived in this community? Please use the space below to summarize any additional qualifications you have for this position Date Signature David Young, chair Rev 1, 29 November, 2008 Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission Members of the commission; My wife Dot and I live at 945 Oak Street above Nevada. We both ride up Oak Street to "A" Street once or twice every day. Request: I am writing to remind the Commission of our request for consideration of a adding a 'fog line' on both sides of Oak Street stretching between Nevada on the North and RR tracks just North of Van Ness to the South. This would improve cyclists safety on Oak Street; and also improve the route for cyclists traveling "A" Street which links to the Bike Path East along the RR tracks and also Nevada which links to Bike Path West along the Bear Creek Greenway. I am familiar with dimensions and layout due to my background as an architect. I made this request before you and the Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission several months ago. I make it again now under the Commission's specific powers, duties and responsibilities: C. To promote bicycle safety programs. K. To advise the city administrator and city departments regarding bicycle and pedestrian issues in the city. Context: A Fog Line is not governed by the same dimensional restraints as for a Bike Lane. In laying out a bike lane for a two way street such as Oak, there must be three dimensional allowances each side of the yellow center line, each (Parking, Bike Lane and Traffic Lane) must meet City Standards for width: Dim X. Parking width, between curb and outer white line of Bike Lane. Dim Y. Bike Lane width, to outer white line of Traffic lane. Dim Z. Traffic Lane width, to Yellow Center Line of street Formula: Roadway width, Curb to Curb = 2(X+Y+Z) In laying out a Fog Line there must be two dimensions each side of the yellow center line, only two dimensions (Parking and Traffic Lane) must meet City Standards for width: Dim X. Parking width, between curb and Fog Line. Dim Z. Traffic Lane width, between Fog Line and Yellow Center Line. Formula: Roadway width, Curb to Curb = 2(X+Z) For Oak Street: Curb to curb 40'-0" = 2(10' + 10') = ten foot max. traffic lane + 8 foot parking and 2 foot buffer. (Rev 1) Here's my reasoning: 1. Fog Line: In my experience as a rider, a line delineating the outside edge of the motorist's lane on the driver's right (fog line) has an unmistakable and remarkable calming effect on motorists when passing a cyclist. a. Motorists invariably stay within their lane because the white line instills confidence. They understand the cyclist will stay on his or her side of the line. This allows the motorist to drive their auto trusting the cyclist to take care of him/herself. 2. Only a painted center line, and no fog line, motorists seem afraid of hitting a cyclist on the passenger side of their vehicle because: a. Many motorists are not confident of the clearance of their vehicle on the passenger side. (see Note 1) b. Since cyclists often tend to weave for the sake of balance, motorists are concerned the cyclist might veer into their lane, and motorists find this unnerving. c. On Oak Street motorists frequently risk a head on collision, crossing the center line while accelerating, as they veer into the opposite lane leaving an 8 to 10 foot clearance, rather than pass the cyclist with a normal say 2 to 4 foot clearance. In my experience this doesn't happen on streets with an outside lane line (fog line) since motorists trust cyclists will stay outside the line. Note 1. Motorist's uncertainty of their clearance is seen on A street where many motorists, afraid to pass an oncoming auto, drive down the center of the narrow two- way street.) 3. Special conditions: I was asked at the hearing about the following special conditions. a. Bump -outs at two crosswalks. As I rider I notice my path is to cross exactly where the bump -out curb meets the crosswalk. The restriction is brief and workable. In one place a citizen has installed large landscape rocks in the planter which could be a hazard if a rider was forced off the roadway at the crosswalk. b. Where Oak Street bends left to true North. The layout of the bend is abrupt with no radius. I always feel tense and cautious as it is a somewhat blind corner. Recommendation: I suggest a yellow line for 10 — 15 ± at the inside of the corner on the West side of Oak to prevent parking of cars or trucks which obscure the view and to make it less risky for vehicles and bikes. 4. Observation: One morning last week the Oak Street pavement was moist from dew. By 8:45 AM I noticed morning rush hour traffic had completely dried off the Northbound and Southbound traffic lanes. The result was the exact lanes used by numerous motorists were clearly visible as if etched into the pavement. a. Each revealed traffic lane was about 9 feet wide. It was surprising how accurately and consistently they were laid down. The lanes were laid down either side of the painted center line. There was an ample space between the outside and the line of parked cars at the curb. Respectfully submitted; John Fisher -Smith 945 Oak Street, Ashland, OR 97520 541-482-3269 From the March 27`h, 2008 Traffic Safety Commission minutes: 2. Bike Safety on Oak Street Olson reported that the Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission requested the Commission look at the option of installing bike lanes on Oak Street. Oak Street is a 40' wide collector that carries over 4000 VPD. There are sidewalks on at least one side of the street and unrestricted parking on both sides. Bikelanes on both sides of Oak along with parking on both sides would require 44' necessitating restricting parking to one side of Oak. Olson doubted that that would be acceptable to the residents. Also the existing bumpouts on Oak Street would interfere with a bike lane. Staff recommended surveying residents and reviewing other options. Steve Ryan from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission addressed the Commission noting that the request came from a bicyclist living on Oak Street. The citizen requested a bikepath connecting downtown to the greenway. The Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission discussed the issues brought forth by staff. He said a fog line was in essence a bike lane. Swales wondered about designing a two way multiuse path instead of two bikelanes. Olson noted that design standards require a bikelane be on both sides on a street unless there was a physical separation. Decision: Lemhouse / Swales m/s to table item to a future meeting after such time as staff could gather data regarding bicycle crash statistics, speed, bike usage and conduct a neighborhood survey. Motion passed unanimously. Tom Burnham, Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission, noted that he rode Oak Street from Eagle Mill. He thought Oak was used a lot by bicyclists on certain days. He said he was more concerned about slower bikers. He did an informal survey of cars parked on Oak Street and thought many of the spaces were unavailable due to fire hydrants, mailboxes, etc. CITY OF ASH LAN D Memo ......................... ....... Date: December 11, 2008 Derek Severson, Associate Planner From: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission Staff Liaison To: Bicycle & Pedestrian Commissioners Re: Exit 14 Aesthetics Advisory Committee Staff has been asked to make a recommendation for a representative from the Transportation Commission who is willing to volunteer to sit on the "Aesthetics Advisory Committee (AAC)" for the Exit 14 bridge project. As you are all aware, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has been working on plans to repair the Exit 14 bridge (including widening to accommodate a center turn lane, adding sidewalks and bike lanes, and signalizing the ramp terminals) and is targeting their bidding process for May 2010 with construction tentatively planned for August 2010 and continuing into 2011. ODOT will be running the community involvement process with the City of Ashland helping with some of the logistics. The community involvement process will be from January to July 2009, with the Aesthetics Advisory Committee (AAC) meeting three to four times during this period. The purpose of the AAC is to provide input on aesthetic improvements to the bridge to ODOT project design team. The interchange is important because it is the first full interchange into the state for northbound travelers, and ODOT has been open to considering design treatments that could reflect Ashland and Southern Oregon. I'm hoping one of you who is interested in serving on the Transportation Commission would also be interested in sitting on the AAC. Bicycle & Pedestrian Commission 51 Winbum Way Phone: 541.552.2040 Ashland OR 97520 Fax: 541.552.2050 www.ashland,or.us TTY: 800.735.2900 ��