Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/27/1992CITY OF DIAMOND BAR MINUTES OF THE TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION FEBRUARY 27, 1992 CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Chavers called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m. at the South Coast Air Quality Management District Hearing Room, 21865 East Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California. ROLL CALL: Commissioners Ortiz, Beke, Vice Chairman Gravdahl, and Chairman Chavers. Commissioner Fritz arrived at 7:24 p.m. Also present were City Engineer Sid Mousavi, Administrative Analyst Tseday Aberra, Associate Engineer David Liu, Deputy Clark, and Contract Secretary Liz Myers. MINUTES: Feb. 13, 1992 Motion was made by C/Beke, seconded by C/Ortiz and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to approve the Minutes of February 13, 1992. COMMISSION C/Ortiz and Chair/Chavers thanked staff and the COMMENTS: Sheriff Department for all the work they've done for the Commission in the last couple of years. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Leslie Stoltz, residing at 1755 Ano Nuevo, and Judy MacFadden, residing at 1344 Spruce Tree expressed their concern that the traffic pattern at the Maple Hill Elementary School is hazardous to the school children. They inquired if the Commission could advise them how to mitigate the situation. Chair/Chavers stated that the traffic situation at the Maple Hill Elementary School was reviewed about two years ago, and some changes were made at that time. He requested staff to determine what changes had been made, and to revisit the site to determine the changes in the traffic patterns. The matter is to be placed as an agenda item for the next meeting. It is suggested that the parents and the school officials attend the meeting for discussion. Leslie Stoltz informed the Commission that the "No Parking" signs posted are not being observed. Two years ago, the school had a staggered start time, however, presently, all children arrive and leave school at the same time. OLD BUSINESS: Restriping/ C/Beke informed the Commission that the sub - Median island committee met to review the traffic situation at Modification the Century 21/Medical Plaza to determine possible Grand, between solutions for a safe ingress and egress from the Montefino and driveway. One of the problems is turning right out Diamond Bar Blvd. of the driveway. The other problem is the left February 27, 1992 Page 2 turn moves out of the driveway, and the right exit, plus weave to make left turns at the corner. AE/Liu reviewed the possible solutions considered for the right turn movements: modify or widen the drive approach, between Century 21 and the Medical Plaza, to an alley type drive approach; and make a 10 foot stripe area, basically from Montefino Ave. to the Fire Station, creating a channelization area for an easier turning movement. There are two existing vents, belonging to Southern California Edison, at the drive approach for the Medical Plaza and Century 21. The cost to relocate the two vents and modify the drive approach is about $3,000 dollars. The cost for the other drive approach, between the Lucky Center and the Medical Plaza, is included in the Grand Ave. modification project that will probably commence next week. As a possible solution for the left turn movements, ingressing and egressing out of the site, the timing plans should be studied at the Montefino/Grand signal and the Diamond Bar Blvd./Grand signal, to possibly create a lag to hold part of the queue moving down to Diamond Bar Blvd. C/Beke stated that it was also considered creating an alley type return, and putting a center line stripe on the driveways. He suggested that the timing plans be looked at by DKS as a project. Chair/Chavers suggested that prohibiting the left turn movements on Grand, during peak hours, be considered, particularly from Grand into the driveways. AE/Liu stated that the owners of the driveways have not yet been approached regarding funding for the driveway modification. Motion was made by C/Beke, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to recommend to the City Council to proceed with the modifications of the three driveways, and the two utility vents on Grand Ave., to facilitate right turns out of the Century 21/Medical Plaza and to create a 10 foot channelized island along the curb from Montefino to past the Fire Station/Library. AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke, Ortiz, VC/Gravdahl and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: Fritz. February 27, 1992 Page 3 Motion was made by C/Beke to explore the timing sequence between the Montefino Ave./Grand Ave. and the Diamond Bar Blvd./Grand Ave. intersection to see if we could do something to create a break in the queue between Montefino Ave. and Diamond Bar Blvd. by adjusting the timing. Summitridge/ CE/Mousavi reported that the sub -committee met to Brookwood evaluate the circulation problems in the Summitridge/Brookwood community. He reviewed the recommendations made: restripe the old, faded striping; installing bop dots (white markers); installing 25 mph speed limit signs in certain areas; red curbing; centerline yellow striping; and studying the intersections of Thunder Trail/Summitridge, Brookwood/Long View, and Brookwood/Summitridge for stop signs. Currently, there are funds available in the budget to do the suggested projects. VC/Gravdahl informed staff that the stop sign at Carpio is set back too far, there's no stop bar, and it's visibility is hindered by a tree. Also, there is no sign posted for the Fire Station in the area. Motion was made by Chair/Chavers, seconded by ' C/Ortiz and CARRIED to direct staff to proceed with the striping, the guide signs, the bop dots, design effort notification, and to initiate the count program for the stop signs previously indicated. Chair/Chavers suggested that C/Beke's motion be tabled until the other recommendations have been completed, and observed. C/Beke suggested that DKS study the project, if funding is available. CE/Mousavi stated that there has been discussion regarding the possibility of the synchronization of the signals on Grand Ave. There's money available as part of that pilot program. Chair/Chavers, in response to VC/Gravdahl inquiry regarding prohibiting left hand turns exiting the Century 21/Medical Plaza, suggested that it be considered when no other alternative exists. Motion was made by C/Ortiz, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to table C/Beke's first motion. Summitridge/ CE/Mousavi reported that the sub -committee met to Brookwood evaluate the circulation problems in the Summitridge/Brookwood community. He reviewed the recommendations made: restripe the old, faded striping; installing bop dots (white markers); installing 25 mph speed limit signs in certain areas; red curbing; centerline yellow striping; and studying the intersections of Thunder Trail/Summitridge, Brookwood/Long View, and Brookwood/Summitridge for stop signs. Currently, there are funds available in the budget to do the suggested projects. VC/Gravdahl informed staff that the stop sign at Carpio is set back too far, there's no stop bar, and it's visibility is hindered by a tree. Also, there is no sign posted for the Fire Station in the area. Motion was made by Chair/Chavers, seconded by ' C/Ortiz and CARRIED to direct staff to proceed with the striping, the guide signs, the bop dots, design effort notification, and to initiate the count program for the stop signs previously indicated. February 27, 1992 Page 4 �I The information is to be brought back to the Commission when it is available. AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Ortiz, Beke, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: Fritz. White Paper AA/Aberra reported that, at the last meeting, the Chairman requested that the Commission members provide additional input to the items in the draft "White Paper". Chair/Chavers distributed copies of the draft "White Paper", and indicated that it is a consolidation of the input received from the Commission. Chair/Chavers called a recess at 7:30 p.m. to review the item. The meeting was called back to order at 7:35 p.m. VC/Gravdahl suggested that item #16, referring to speed humps/bumps, have an attachment. Chair/Chavers maintained that the issue of speed humps/bumps should not be decided at the Commission level, but be discussed at a higher and broader level. The Commission briefly discussed the issue of speed humps/bumps. They concurred that any further discussion should be separate from this item. Motion was made by C/Fritz, seconded by C/Ortiz and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to present to the City Council this finalized "White Paper". AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Ortiz, Beke, Fritz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS: None. Speed Humps/BumpsAA/Aberra reported that the comments made by the City Attorney, regarding the issue of speed humps/bumps, has been forwarded to the Commission, as requested. Deputy Clark stated that the two different cities' traffic committee meetings he has attended, nobody has been in favor of speed humps/bumps. C/Beke and C/Fritz stated that the City Attorney has already stated his view, opposing the use of February 27, 1992 Page 5 speed humps/bumps, to the Council. There is no reason for the Commission to dispute this. Chair/Chavers pointed out that it is up to the Council to create a policy one way or the other. The burden should not be upon this Commission. Motion was made by C/Fritz, seconded by C/Beke and FAILED to recommend to the Council that they adopt a policy which is against the installation of speed humps based on the advise from Council that it would enhance the liability of the City. It is recommended that the decision be made in a public hearing fashion. AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke and Fritz. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: Ortiz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None. VC/Gravdahl indicated that it was suggested by two Councilmembers that all documentation, pro and con, be attached to item #16 of the "White Paper" for Motion was made by C/Fritz, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to add item #17 to the "White Paper" relating to speed humps, which in effect states that speed humps have come up frequently as a request, and opinions are divided both on the Commission, and in the literature, and we think that given the frequency with which the issue comes up, the City should have formally a policy position on whether or not speed humps are an appropriate traffic control measure. The matter is to be tabled until after discussion with the Council with the "White Paper". ' AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke, Ortiz, Fritz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None. discussion at the study session. CE/Mousavi, in response to C/Beke, stated that staff has received various requests for speed humps. One request was denied by the Commission. The other requests are pending discussion by the Commission regarding this issues. C/Fritz stated that, to conserve the Commission's time, a policy should be established one way or the other. He suggested that item #17 be added to the "White Paper", as a speed hump item, explaining that opinion is divided. Motion was made by C/Fritz, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to add item #17 to the "White Paper" relating to speed humps, which in effect states that speed humps have come up frequently as a request, and opinions are divided both on the Commission, and in the literature, and we think that given the frequency with which the issue comes up, the City should have formally a policy position on whether or not speed humps are an appropriate traffic control measure. The matter is to be tabled until after discussion with the Council with the "White Paper". ' AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke, Ortiz, Fritz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None. February 27, 1992 Page 6 CE/Mousavi stated that staff will inform those requesting speed humps that the issue is being considered. TTC CE/Mousavi reported that, as per Commission's Sub -committee request, this item was placed on the agenda for a five minute discussion on determining if it is desired to have a sub -committee handle some transportation issues, or if it should remain handled by the Commission as a whole. Motion was made by Chair/Chavers, seconded by C/Ortiz and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to indefinitely table the matter, until after the formation of the new Commission, and until such time that it is appropriate to discuss it again. The Commission noted that items #1,12 and #10, of the attached miscellaneous items included in the staff report, can be handled administratively. CE/Mousavi stated that staff will handle the items and place them on the Consent Calendar. I Queuing Analysis CE/Mousavi reported that the queuing analysis shows Intersection that it is possible to create two lanes, each Pathfinder/ direction, with the right lane westbound, from Brea Cnyn. Rd. Pathfinder to Brea Canyon Rd. northbound; and the left turn from eastbound Pathfinder to northbound Brea Canyon Rd.; as well as the exclusive right turn to the freeway southbound 57. It is recommended that the Commission review the attached conceptual design and recommend the installation of the 3 -way stop signs and striping modification to the City Council. Chair/Chavers noted that the cross section at the off ramp won't work as indicated on the conceptual design. The Commission discussed ways to make the transition work. Chair/Chavers offered to meet with staff and sketch out a design. Motion was made by C/Beke, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to accept staff's recommendation contingent upon Chair/Chavers' approval. AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke, Fritz, Ortiz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: None. ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None. February 27, 1992 Page 7 NEW BUSINESS: Install a Deer AA/Aberra addressed the Commission regarding the Crossing Sign request for "Deer Crossing" signs on Grand Ave., near Golden Springs Drive. The Public Works Department has researched the issue. According to Ontario's Station's records, accidents which involved deer have not been reported. The southeast quadrant of the Grand Ave./Golden Springs Drive intersection has not been identified as deer passage by the Department of Fish and Game. Furthermore, the Pomona Humane Society report that no deceased deer were picked up within the City of Diamond Bar, in the month of January 1992. It is recommended that the Commission deny the request. Motion was made by VC/Gravdahl, seconded by C/Beke and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to accept staff's recommendation. AYES: COMMISSIONERS: Beke, Fritz, VC/Gravdahl, and Chair/Chavers. NOES: COMMISSIONERS: Ortiz. ITEMS FROM ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS: None. C/Ortiz informed staff that there is still not a COMMISSIONERS: "No Parking" sign by the In and Out Burger. C/Fritz noted that the High School still does not have it's "Loading Zone" signs. AE/Liu stated that, as of this date, staff has not received any money. However, per a phone conversation with a member of the School District, the money will be forthcoming. VC/Gravdahl indicated that the Metro Disabled Persons Bus Service went into service for the City of Diamond Bar on September 23, 1991. Chair/Chavers stated that, after reviewing the draft Traffic Impact/Fee Assessment Report he has found the following five fatal flaws in the recommendations contained in the document: the credits are not considered; there is no consideration of trip length; there is no consideration for diverted or passerby trips (linked trips); cases 3 and 4, of the fair share cost allocations, are unacceptable because we are ' charging for available capacity which is not legal under AB1600; and we cannot base an impact fee structure on possible improvement. February 27, 1992 Page 8 Chair/Chavers noted more flaws within the document: because we used a needs based format, the entire program will have to be revisited any time any modifications are made, and therefore, it is possible that those people who have already paid into the program will have to be refunded by the City; the land use types are ridiculously broad; the cost projections are primitive; the statistical accuracy of the model will not be able to achieve .02; there are many mistakes in the ICU calculations; and he questioned the veracity of the model itself. Chair/Chavers suggested that the Report be reworked. He further encouraged that a Consumptive Model Approach be used instead of a Needs Based Format. ITEMS FROM STAFF:CE/Mousavi reported that GPAC is finishing up their comments on the draft General Plan. Staff will forward a copy of the Traffic Circulation Element to the Commission when it is available. The item is scheduled for discussion at the April 9th Commission meeting. CE/Mousavi stated that three consultants have been interviewed for the Transit Route Study. Staff is in the process of negotiating with one of them. CE/Mousavi reported that Diamond Bar has been asked if we would consider Grand Ave. for the synchronization programs that may link into Amar, in the City of Walnut, and go westward. The item will be on the next meeting's agenda for discussion. C/Fritz noted that there are cars parked on the overpass, by the 60/57 freeway, on Grand Ave. Deputy Clark stated that it will be looked in to. ADJOURNMENT: Motion was made by C/Beke, seconded by VC/Gravdahl and CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY to adjourn the meeting at 8:44 p.m. Respectively, Sid Mousavi-° Secretary/Traffic Att st: a Chaver s Chairman