Publication Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2004
Five alternatives for controversial barriers
Five alternatives for controversial barriers
(January 14, 2004) On Wed., Jan. 21, city officials will discuss five alternatives for the contentious trial traffic barriers in the neighborhood north of downtown.
Since June, seven barriers have closed off streets to through-traffic, while two gateways have narrowed streets. The first four current options (A through D) include a recommendation for a new four-month trial.
Option A ("Augment Current Plan") would keep all elements of the plan, while adding restrictions to drivers attempting to turn into the neighborhood from Alma Streets and Middlefield Road.
Option B ("Reduce Current Plan") would remove two of the barriers, relocating one of them to another intersection, and would also take away two associated gateways.
Option C ("Mixed Measures Plan") would remove three of the barriers and the two gateways, but would add three traffic circles and one speed table, which is similar to a speed bump but more gradual. Restriction would be made for drivers attempting to turn into the neighborhood from Alma Streets and Middlefield Road. This is the option preferred by city transportation engineers.
Option D ("No Closures Plan") would remove all of the barriers and two gateways, and would install three traffic circles and a speed table. Multiple turn restrictions would also be added.
Option E ("Remove Trial Plan") would remove all major elements of the trial plan, but would likely include minimal turning restrictions.
The traffic calming project will be discussed at the Jan. 21 meeting of the Planning and Transportation Commission. The meeting will start at 6 p.m. inside City Hall.
The commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for final approval.
--Bill D'Agostino
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