Transportation Committee

TOWN OF MOUNT PLEASANT, SOUTH CAROLINA TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE Monday, March 5, 2018 Municipal Complex, Committee Meeting Room, 3rd Floor 100 Ann Edwards Lane Mount Pleasant, SC 29464 MINUTES Members Present: Mayor Will Haynie, Chair; Bob Brimmer, Joe Bustos, Kevin Cunnane Staff Present: Eric DeMoura, Brad Morrison, James Aton Also Present: Mr. Collins, TranSystems Mayor Haynie called the meeting to order at 10:20 p.m. 1. Approval of Minutes from the February 5, 2018 meeting Mr. Brimmer moved for approval of the February 5, 2018, minutes; motion seconded by Mr. Bustos. Motion carried unanimously. 2. Public Comments Linda Balzac, 422 Hobcaw Drive and President of the Hobcaw Civic Club, stated the application for speed humps on Hobcaw Drive had been withdrawn explaining that in 2013 when traffic calming measures were explored, Hobcaw Point was the only subdivision that met all of the criteria at the 2014 Transportation Committee meeting. Subsequent to that, three (3) speed humps being installed on Hobcaw Drive and two (2) installed on East Hobcaw Drive because of drivers re-routing to avoid the speed humps on Hobcaw Drive. Recently, the Hobcaw Civic Club applied again for humps and, according to the formula, seven (7) additional speed humps could be approved on Hobcaw Drive. At the annual Hobcaw Civic Club meeting  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 2 of 20 residents, were upset because a lot of young families had moved into the neighborhood and expressed concern they were not given any speed mediation on their street. There is still a lot of traffic and speeds were only reduced from thirty-four point seven (34.7) miles per hour (mph) to thirty- four point four (34.4) mph according to the most recent traffic counts. Residents do not feel that seven (7) additional speed humps on Hobcaw Drive is the appropriate option to slow drivers and would only redirect traffic to other roadways. The Hobcaw Civic Club respectfully asks the Town to study other alternatives with a comprehensive speed traffic analysis in Hobcaw Point. 3. Review of radar feedback sign data on McCants Drive Mr. DeMoura stated that staff has been studying the data from the radar feedback signs and that Mr. Morrison will be presenting the results. Mr. Morrison welcomed Mr. Cunnane as the newest member of the Transportation Committee and stated that staff will be providing a six (6) month review of the pilot program for the radar feedback signs located on McCants Drive. Referring to a memo provided to the Committee, Mr. Morrison explained that four (4) radar feedback signs were installed on McCants Drive to provide speed information to a driver, with a minimum fifteen (15) mph display and a maximum of thirty (30) mph. Speeds between twenty-six (26) and twenty-nine (29) mph display a slow flash of the actual speed and at a speed of thirty (30) or above, the sign will flash a message to “slow down” and “too fast”. Staff performed a three (3) month review and a six (6) month review of speed data, noting that the six (6) month review is a more accurate reflection of operating speed because more time normalizes the data. The ranges of speed reduction are between two (2) mph and seven (7) mph from the pre-installation condition to the six-month post-condition. The signs appear to be most effective when drivers encounter the radar feedback sign the first time. Referring to a graphic, pre-installation speed data was collected close to where the signs were to be installed, with pre- installation speeds thirty-eight (38) mph closer to Ben Sawyer Boulevard and  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 3 of 20 moving into the Old Village, speeds of thirty–four (34) mph and thirty (30) mph closest to the harbor. Mayor Haynie inquired how speeds were measured pre-installation of the radar feedback signs. Mr. Morrison replied that very small devices that are used to collect data. Mr. Haynie asked for clarification that the radar feedback devices were not in place when the data was collected. Mr. Morrison replied in the affirmative stating that the device is very small and virtually unrecognizable as it is not intended not to influence driver behavior. Referring to the graphic, the pre-activation data is when the radar feedback signs were installed, but not activated, to collect speed data. Mr. Bustos inquired how long pre-activations data was collected. Mr. Morrison stated that data collected for one (1) week prior to activating the radar feedback signs to establish a baseline, noting that the pre- installation speed coming into the Old Village from Ben Sawyer was thirty- eight (38) mph, which is a significant speed for a roadway with a posted speed limit of twenty-five (25) mph. With the installation and pre-activation of the radar feedback signs, speeds reduced to thirty-two (32) mph. With the information that has been collected, potential applications within the traffic calming program would include residential roads that are ineligible per the Town’s Traffic Calming Program noting that these would be roads similar to Brickyard Parkway and Rivertowne Parkway. Other applications include residential roads that are eligible for the Town’s Traffic Calming Program but where speed humps are not desired and State-owned residential roads where traffic volumes are too high and do not meet the South Carolina Department of Transportation’s (SCDOT) traffic calming criteria. What we are seeing from the pilot study is that data indicates that the initial interaction with the sign is where the greatest speed drop is observed. Another potential application that may relate to Agenda Item number four (4) is placement of radar feedback signs at approximately seven (7) seven primary roads that enter and  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 4 of 20 exit the Old Village. Staff can integrate the Radar Feedback Sign Pilot Program into the current Traffic Calming Program if directed by Committee. Mayor Haynie stated that speed data has been provided to Committee and inquired if traffic counts have been collected from the locations where the feedback signs are located. Mr. Morrison replied that the radar feedback signs do collect volume data and the data has not been validated, but could be provided to the Committee, explaining the intent of the pilot program was to affect speed and that a history of volume data can be made available to Committee for McCants Drive, Center Street, Whilden Street and Royall Avenue. Mayor Haynie expressed that there is a concern with construction on Coleman Boulevard and questioned if there would be a permanent impact to traffic volumes with the new design of Coleman Boulevard and nearby neighborhoods, noting that a traffic count would be important for those deliberations. Mr. Brimmer stated that the data indicates a law of diminishing returns, noting that there is an initial decrease but over time the speeds tend to stabilize and asked if that is typical. It appears to be more like a temporary intervention as opposed to something that is going to maintain a long-term solution. Mr. Morrison stated that is why it is important to analyze the data at twelve (12) months to compare to data collected at six (6) months. Any open section state residential roadway such as McCants Drive, would typically have a posted of thirty (30) by the SCDOT, but McCants Drive is posted at twenty- five (25). It is more difficult to control speed when curb and gutter is absent, as it provides driving friction, and agreed there is a point of diminishing return and it is unlikely for speeds to drop in another six (6) months, but if the speed stabilizes where it is now, that would be a good result. Mr. Brimmer stated the scenario is like the Hawthorne Effect, which is basically when something is examined, regardless of what the intervention is, it tends to change and asked if the presence of the signs promotes a decrease  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 5 of 20 initially. It could be argued that within the first ninety (90) days, an initial decrease would be recorded but after that, there is not much of an effect. Mr. Morrison agreed, stating that it could be geographic in nature, meaning that on streets that are further into a neighborhood, drivers may be more compliant than when they are exiting or entering off a higher speed facility coming into the neighborhood. We can only deduce so much from the data, but I think that it is reasonable to say that the radar signs have had some effect. Mayor Haynie asked if was reasonable to speculate that when the signs were first installed, drivers were aware of the blue light causing them to reduce their speed and that after three (3) months drivers figure out that the blue light is not doing anything, so you drive your speed. Mr. Morrison stated that it is reasonable, but since the numbers appear to be stabilizing at approximately thirty (30) mph, this is reasonable compliance. Mr. Haynie asked if the speed is reasonable from the previous speed to the reduced speed of thirty (30) mph. Mr. Morrison answered in the affirmative stating that the reduction is significant. Mr. Bustos asked Chief Carl Ritchie, Town of Mount Pleasant Police Department (MPPD), if the information provided is enough data that can be used for targeted enforcement. Chief Ritchie answered in the affirmative, stating that the MPPD is in these areas providing enforcement that is complimenting the measures that are currently in place. The blue light on the sign may reduce speeders temporarily but what will get drivers attention is when a traffic citation is issued. Mr. Bustos asked if stealth radar is what was previously used. Chief Ritchie answered in the affirmative, stating that the radar is attached to a fixed post collecting speed and traffic counts. Mr. Bustos asked if the data collected can be used more efficiently to place an officer in an area at a particular time.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 6 of 20 Mr. Morrison stated if you wanted to maximize enforcement, the data could be used to identify problem areas and times. Chief Ritchie stated that motor units are currently training and that data could be beneficial because these units are less obvious than a police cruiser. Mr. Cunnane asked the highest speed that has been recorded at the radar signs located nearest to Ben Sawyer Boulevard. Mr. Morrison replied that information was not available explaining that the data reflect the eighty-fifth percentile (85th%-tile) speeds. Mr. Cunnane asked for the definition of the eighty-fifth percentile (85th%-tile). Mr. Morrison explained that means only fifteen percent (15%) of drivers are exceeding that speed. He referred to the graphic, noting the thirty-one (31) mph post-activation speed at a location, which means eighty-five percent (85%) of vehicles are driving at a speed of thirty-one (31) mph or less and only fifteen percent (15%) are exceeding thirty-one (31) mph. Mr. Cunnane commented that the focus should be on reckless drivers and it is a perfect way to deploy resources. Residents complain about reckless drivers and cameras and speed bumps address one aspect of the issue with police officers addressing multi-disciplinary issues. Chief Ritchie stated the MPPD has received complaints from neighbors and if a car description or a tag number is provided, officers will personally address the driver in question. Mr. Cunnane inquired if the MPPD had the ability to impound cars for reckless driving. Chief Ritchie stated that if an arrest is made, the car can be impounded but the owner can get it back once he or she is released from jail. Mr. Cunnane stated that it is his opinion that impounding a car would be a deterrent to reckless driving. Chief Ritchie commented that due process must be followed.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 7 of 20 Mr. Morrison stated that another way to use the data is to identify when the outliers (high speeds) occur, so MPPD can deploy resources accordingly. 4. Discussion of a comprehensive traffic analysis for the Old Village and Indian Village Mayor Haynie stated that there was a unanimous vote by full Council for a comprehensive traffic analysis for the Old Village and Indian Village out of concern relating to the construction on Coleman Boulevard during construction and after completion. If volume numbers can be collected, they can be examined to estimate the number of drivers that are diverting into the Old Village to avoid construction on Coleman Boulevard. My question would be of staff and of Council to look at a comprehensive analysis for the Old Village and the Indian Village and make a decision as to how to proceed given that the current design for Coleman Boulevard is to slow traffic and that there will probably be an increase in traffic in a residential neighborhood. It is bothersome to me that we will be taking traffic off a major thoroughfare and sending it through a residential district. Council wants to ensure that if we are doing something in one area, then another problem is not going to be created elsewhere, especially when it involves two of the oldest neighborhoods in Mount Pleasant. Mr. Morrison stated that one option could be consideration of deployment of these radar feedback devices at the approximate seven (7) entry points in the Old Village area to include Center Street, McCants Drive, Erckman Drive, Pherigo Street, Fairmont Avenue, Simmons Street and Whilden Street. Mayor Haynie asked if there were devices available now to install. Mr. Morrison replied that the devices would need to be procured, noting that a device can be installed with minimal material provided by the Public Services Department at cost of approximately four thousand dollars ($4,000), noting that a single speed hump costs approximately three thousand five hundred dollars ($3500) and are installed in groups. With regard to any comprehensive study, data collection would be prudent in an effort to establish a baseline. There is good volume data that has been collected over the years from SCDOT count stations, traffic calming applications and also a  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 8 of 20 2013 origin-destination study for the Old Village that can be used to provide a baseline. Now that construction is underway, data can be collected to compare with past data. Mayor Haynie stated to Committee that now would be a good time to collect baseline data before completion. Data is available from before construction began and can be collected during and after construction is complete. It is difficult to decide where to place a speed hump and which road it will divert to and to determine the size of a speed hump. Mr. Cunnane commented that when speed humps are installed on a roadway and there is alternative route, drivers will take the alternative route. Another unintended consequence of speed humps is the effect on emergency responses and it would be concerning if seven (7) speed humps were installed on a roadway and it should be considered if there are devices that work better for emergency responses or if signage and enforcement is a better option. Mr. Morrison stated that consideration could be given for a new device. The issue has been discussed at staff level and with the Town Administrator. A situation could occur where you might have a proliferation of speed humps that are beginning to squeeze an area and constrain the ability to move freely, particularly for emergency vehicles. That is why the program has the requirements that once a situation occurs like Hobcaw Point, and there is a desire to install speed humps on every road, the entire neighborhood must be petitioned. One device that may be an option is a speed cushion that is smaller than a speed hump. Speed cushions were installed on National Drive for many years because of students from Wando High School using National Drive as a cut-through. Speed cushions are effective and do have a wider wheel base to allow for emergency vehicles to pass over with ease. Mayor Haynie asked if the speed cushions are still installed in Charleston National. Mr. Morrison replied in the negative, stating it was requested they be converted to a standard speed hump.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 9 of 20 Mr. Bustos inquired if it was possible during peak hours to turn off the protected left turn to make it inconvenient to make a left turn off Ben Sawyer Boulevard onto McCants Drive, forcing drivers to continue straight. Mr. Morrison replied that it is possible, but that it would be necessary to understand the effect that would have on the operation of the intersection. The 2013 origin destination study data shows that approximately two percent (2%) of traffic on Coleman Boulevard at Shem Creek entered the Old Village to exit out to other intersections on Coleman Boulevard or Ben Sawyer Boulevard. It indicated that most drivers have a destination within the Old Village. Another consideration in modifying the signal is the effect on mobility and level of service for Old Village residents versus trying to address cut- through traffic, which is why it is important to perform a study to understand the magnitude and to identify a solution. Mr. Brimmer commented that he is in support of the analysis with the current construction that is happening and applauds the idea of this being a data gathering phase because the traffic patterns will shift as the construction shifts. The concern is with not only helping traffic during the construction phase but putting an effort on what happens when construction is completed. In terms of resources being allocated, gathering the data and understanding the problem is going to be key. Mayor Haynie asked if Committee would need to recommend or approve using the radar feedback signs to collect day to establish a baseline data or is staff would be using the smaller traffic analyzer. Mr. Morrison stated it would be preferable to use the traffic analyzer to collect unbiased data. The radar feedback signs could be used as a first step to start controlling speeds, but would probably not affect traffic volumes. Good baseline data is available and the effort could be a two-pronged approach with staff performing traffic counts or contracting out traffic counts being that a twenty-four (24) hour traffic count is not expensive. It would be preferable to fashion the study to coincide with shifts in the construction on Coleman Boulevard, so any effects can be evaluated. Mr. Brimmer inquired if beach traffic would be taken into consideration.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 10 of 20 Mr. Morrison replied that Mr. Aton developed traffic signal timings for Ben Sawyer Boulevard that address the late spring through September months as it relates to seasonal beach traffic. Mayor Haynie asked the Committee the best way to proceed to ensure staff understands what the Committee is expecting. Mr. Bustos stated that the first priority is to collect the data to identify where the signs would be most efficient. Mr. Cunnane agreed, stating that in the meantime perhaps the MPPD can increase patrol at the entrances to the Old Village area. Historical churches may not want a radar feedback sign in front of their sanctuary and the process of scouting locations for the signs should begin to expedite installation. Mr. Haynie questioned if staff has been provided enough direction to begin gathering data on speed and counts, noting the objective is to collect data and not purchase radar feedback signs. Mr. Morrison answered in the affirmative, stating that a scope of work can be provided showing how current data will be utilized and how much data can be collected ourselves versus hiring an external source to perform the counts. Mr. DeMoura stated that there is funding in current year budget for that purpose. Mayor Haynie asked if an update would be available at the April Committee meeting. 5. Consideration of FY 2018 Traffic Calming Program applications Mr. Morrison stated a memo had been provided to the Committee regarding the annual traffic calming applications. Fifteen (15) applications were submitted, with six (6) meeting the speed requirements for the traffic calming. If all applications were approved, it is estimated approximately thirteen (13) speed humps will be installed at a cost of approximately forty- five thousand, five hundred dollars ($45,500). Several petitions were given an extended deadline for return and if the six (6) applications are approved, we would ask that be contingent upon the submission of a verified petition  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 11 of 20 with the minimum required seventy-five percent (75%) approval. Eight (8) applicants did not meet the requirements and one (1) neighborhood withdrew their application. Regarding the withdrawn application from Hobcaw Point, seven (7) speed humps may been estimated based upon the request and length of road, but no humps have been approved in any the areas because the petition process did not proceed. The primary criteria for traffic calming is speed and volume, with speed earning the highest points. The highest point application received was on Whilden Street/Royall Avenue between Coleman Boulevard and McCants Drive, and that portion of roadway has existing speed humps, so additional speed humps would supplement the existing humps. Eight (8) applications did not meet the requirements, as speeds did not exceed the five (5) mph or higher. He referred to the previous request of Hobcaw Point for a comprehensive study under the direction of Committee or Council. However, he noted that the aside from an independent study directed by the Committee or Council, the traffic calming program was the appropriate avenue for their request. The situation for Hobcaw Point relates to the fact that once humps are proposed in a manner where a resident has no reasonable alternative to enter or exit a neighborhood without traversing the humps, then the entire neighborhood must be petitioned. As such, staff is seeking approval of the six (6) applications contingent upon three (3) returning their completed petitions for validation. Mr. Brimmer asked for the timeline for the neighborhoods to respond to with the information needed. Mr. Ponder stated that the deadline was extended by one (1) week. Mr. Brimmer asked what will happen if one (1) or more neighborhoods do not respond within a week and if the funds carry over or go into a general fund. Mr. DeMoura stated that the unspent money goes back to the general fund through the budget process the funds are appropriated for the following year. Mr. Morrison stated that staff is very reasonable about the timeframes and Mr. Ponder continually communicates with applicants.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 12 of 20 Mr. Bustos moved to approve the six traffic calming applications as presented by staff; Mr. Brimmer seconded with the contingency of all applicants returning the petition portion of the application. Motion carried unanimously. 6. Update from TranSystems on scope fee, and overall progress of the redesign of Coleman Boulevard Mayor Haynie stated a unanimous vote by Council was taken for the removal of the on-street parking aspect of the project and Committee is asking for an update to the status of the redesign and associated costs. Mr. Collins, TranSystems, stated that TranSystems has been tasked with eliminating the on-street parking in the area of Whilden Street, a scope and fee to the Town that has been approved and are waiting for the contract to arrive so it can be signed and returned. The next step would be to meet with staff to establish a schedule that is estimated to take approximately three to four (3-4) months to re-design the on-street parking with an associated cost of seventy-four thousand, two hundred sixty dollars ($74,260). Mayor Haynie asked Mr. Collins to repeat the fee. Mr. Collins answered seventy-four thousand, two hundred sixty dollars ($74,260). The redesign is in very preliminary stages and once the contract is agreed to and signed, a schedule will be established with staff. Mayor Haynie asked if the redesign has begun yet. Mr. Collins replied in the negative. Mayor Haynie asked for clarification that the process would take approximately three to four (3-4) months. Mr. Collins replied in affirmative. Mayor Haynie asked if there will be a conflict with the progress of the project with an estimated three to four (3-4) month redesign of the project. Mr. Collins asked for clarification if Mayor Haynie was referring to the schedule with the contractor.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 13 of 20 Mayor Haynie replied the schedule for anyone that is associated with the construction. Mr. Collins replied in the affirmative stating that construction on the north side will be completed in approximately four to six (4-6 weeks). Mr. Morrison stated that initial discussion has occurred with the contractor regarding the change and the contractor is willing to accommodate the redesign east of 656 Coleman Boulevard where the first parking would have been encountered. Mayor Haynie asked the location of 656 Coleman Boulevard. Mr. Morrison explained that 656 Coleman Boulevard is located at the median opening across from the exit of Moultrie Middle School and coincides with the townhomes and offices across the street. There will be some work- arounds to keep the contractor working and when a meeting is conducted between the staff, the SCDOT and the contractor, there will be a better understanding on how to address certain aspects, including the approval process and specific impacts on the schedule. Mayor Haynie asked if approval of the redesign had been received from the SCDOT. Mr. Collins replied in the negative, stating that a concept will be developed when a meeting is scheduled with the Town to receive approval and then the design will be forwarded to the SCDOT with the new design exceptions. All terminology referring to on-street parking will need to be removed from the scope of work and the plans and design exception will be reviewed and approved by the SCDOT. Mayor Haynie asked when it is anticipated the approval will be received. Mr. Collins stated that from the time the redesign is submitted to the SCDOT, approval will take approximately two to three (2-3) weeks. Mr. Morrison stated that the SCDOT has indicated through the previous correspondence there should not be any issues relating to the removal of the  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 14 of 20 on-street parking and the major focus will be re-establishing curb elevations where parking is removed. Mayor Haynie asked as the project progresses, will TranSystems be involved in the ongoing construction and if updates are provided. Mr. Collins answered in the affirmative stating that TranSystems attends each weekly progress meeting conducted by the contractor. Mayor Haynie asked if there have been any issues with delays. Mr. Collins replied that there have been some minor conflicts with utilities, but with a Request for Information (RFI) issues have been addressed quickly by meeting with the contractor in the field to identify a solution. Mayor Haynie commented that he and Councilmember Bustos are on the Waterworks Board and were surprised to learn that the Mount Pleasant Water (MPW) utility realignment will cost approximately three million dollars ($3,000,000) quoting an excerpt from the MPW Second Quarterly Report that “Almost immediately the utility contractor encountered delay issues including utility conflicts, highly unstable soils, road cave-ins coupled with initially unreliable utility locate information. All utility work to date has been focused along Simmons Street, including crossing Coleman with a new 20” force main. While the work has continued steadily until the recent holiday period, the delays noted have placed the Coleman utility work slightly behind our original schedule. To partially mitigate this delay, the road contractor initiated storm drain installation along Coleman near the Simmons/Coleman intersection while waiting to initiate road work along Simmons.” He questioned if this was a significant delay that affected the time of completion or if the utility relocations do not affect the Town’s portion of the project. Mr. Collins stated that he would need perform research regarding the report. Mayor Haynie inquired if the report had been provided to him. Mr. Collins replied in the negative stating that he had not been provided the second quarter report.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 15 of 20 Mayor Haynie stated that is concerning given that the project will cost eighteen million, five hundred thousand dollars ($18,500,000) and this is a published report from MPW relating to a Town project to find out from MPW that we have crumbling road soils, unstable soils, road cave-ins and commented that the report indicates work was initially going to begin on Simmons Street, but because of the issues included in the report work was shifted to commence on Coleman Boulevard. Mr. Morrison stated that he was unaware aware of the report, but that progress meetings are held weekly, noting that the delay being discussed was caused by an unidentified MPW sewer main which is in conflict with the initial drainage plan. An RFI was submitted by the contractor to resolve the issue and this type of issue is not uncommon and typical for any project located in the Lowcountry region. The contractor was able to address the issue and move crews onto Coleman Boulevard to begin installation in an effort to keep the schedule. The project is moving forward and the schedule is approximately twenty-nine (29) days behind the initial schedule to finish Phase 1, but the delay does not currently exceed the overall end date for the contract. He noted the contractor cannot be penalized for unforeseen issues like this. The current work at the Simmons Street outfall is the most difficult being that drainage and utilities are being installed very deep in the soils. Once the contractor is no longer working within the water table, progress will move more quickly in the area near Page’s Okra Grill where the installation of pipe is shallower. The schedule will be adjusted accordingly and an updated schedule can be provided to the Committee at the April Committee meeting. Mayor Haynie asked for clarification if these issues had not been encountered, would the majority of the work have been on Simmons Street and not on Coleman Boulevard. Mr. Morrison stated the first phase includes work along Simmons Street and extending from there to the east and west along Coleman and explained Phase 1 encompasses all drainage and utility installation for the west bound direction. Phase 2 will mirror Phase 1 in the eastbound direction, Phase 3 will involve installation of the medians and Phase 4 is the paving portion of the  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 16 of 20 project. The anticipated schedule for completion of Phase 1 is May 23, 2018, which currently places the project completion date at September 9, 2019 which is prior to the contract end date. Mr. Bustos asked if staff is working on other changes. Mr. Collins replied that TranSystems has examined overall impacts if the median was to be removed and in reviewing existing plans, potential impacts are being evaluated to provide an approach to the elimination of the medians associated with the project. Mayor Haynie stated, that it is his understanding that the scope and fee for each scenario will be presented to Council. Mr. DeMoura stated that the only scope and fee that we have received is for the removal of the on-street parking, which is underway with TranSystems. Mayor Haynie asked how the four thousand dollar ($74,000) redesign fee will allocated. Mr. DeMoura stated that the fee will be paid from the project budget. Mayor Haynie questioned if the fee is part of the contingency fund. Mr. DeMoura replied in the affirmative. Mayor Haynie asked Mr. Collins if both scenarios are intended for Council or to staff only. Mr. Collins replied that when the document is completed, an overview of what is needed to eliminate the median will be provided to Council. Mr. Cunnane questioned to Mayor Haynie if the document being referred to is from the quarterly report. Mayor Haynie replied in the affirmative, stating the MPW utility relocations are a major issue. Mr. Cunnane asked if the second quarter report can be incorporated into the record. Mr. Haynie replied in the affirmative.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 17 of 20 7. Discussion regarding the clearing of accidents from roadways to include the possibility of push trucks and refuse areas Mr. Cunnane stated that the agenda item being discussed is a result of residents expressing concerns to the timing of clearing accidents on SC-41 and challenges associated with regard to marshes, road widths and the anticipation of the SC-41 widening project and how resources can be utilized to address traffic flow in the event of an accident without impeding the National Environmental Process Act (NEPA). A major concern from residents is how minor accidents are handled by the MPPD and if it is necessary to close roadways in both directions in the event of a minor accident or rear-end collision. The issue could be addressed by conducting a meeting with members of the Transportation Department, MPPD and Mount Pleasant Fire Department (MPFD) to establish locations to exchange information for minor accidents and possibly establishing designating areas of pushing of vehicles by the MPPD questioning if it is possible to have a “help” truck located to respond as an option to encompass US-17 and SC-41. Mayor Haynie stated that it is his understanding that a meeting has occurred relating to this issue. Mr. DeMoura stated that it is understandable that for drivers to become frustrated with delays when accident occurs on an arterial such as SC-41 noting that the Chief Ritchie is present to discuss the general response of the MPPD when an accident occurs. Chief Ritchie stated that the majority of the MPPD fleet is equipped with push bumpers that can move accidents or disabled vehicles from the roadway. Many accidents appear minor, but if there is a complaint of a neck or back injury, in an effort to prevent further injury, we cannot direct a driver to move the vehicle because we are not medical staff. When a serious accidents occurs, often it is necessary to block both lanes to protect the safety of first responders and any patients. A major issue that does need to be addressed is response time of tow trucks that are responsible for clearing roadways in a reasonable amount of time. Captain Mark Arnold has been working to evaluate the ordinance passed in 1993 relating to the three (3) tow truck  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 18 of 20 companies that the Town currently uses due to growth and a change in traffic patterns and perhaps invite additional tow companies to assist in clearing accidents. Typically, tow companies should have a twenty (20) minute response time and depending on where the tow truck is coming from it could be longer since the majority of the drivers do not live in Mount Pleasant. Revising the ordinance needs to be discussed and presented to Mr. DeMoura and the proper Committee for consideration. Discussion has occurred to include in the ordinance revision to require tow companies to physically be within the Town limits during rush hour. Officers are being taught that when responding to an accident, if a vehicle is damaged to immediately call dispatch to request the next wrecker in rotation. Dispatch will provide an estimated time of arrival (eta) and if a tow truck has an ETA of more than forty-five (45) minutes, the next wrecker in rotation will be requested. If the ordinance is expanded to include more tow companies nearer to the Town, the response time could be quicker. One of the reasons for having tow companies in Mount Pleasant was to accommodate our citizens in the event a car needed to be towed, it would be to a location within the Town, but accidents do not always involve just citizens. Social media is being utilized as a tool to educated residents on what to do in the event of an accident, suggesting that the driver take a picture of where the vehicle was at the time of accident and then get off the road safely. We try to move as quickly as we can to re-open the roadways and safely get police units back on duty. With regard to accidents on SC-41, the issue with pushing cars is where the vehicles will be pushed. Deputy Chief Mike Mixon, Town of Mount Pleasant Fire Department, stated that two (2) concerns of the MPFD are patient care, because a patient cannot be removed from the vehicle until EMS arrives, and if the vehicle is leaking fluids because a car cannot be pushed into a ditch because it could create a Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) type issue. Mr. Cunnane stated that his question would relate back to the area of refuge and a refuge area could be established for drivers to exchange information if police are not called.  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 19 of 20 Mr. Morrison suggested an inventory be taken to identify existing refuge locations and, if needed, meet with the DOT to establish other possible locations. Chief Ritchie suggested encouraging drivers to pull into existing parking lots off of SC-41 to exchange information and notify the MPPD, if needed and that it is not necessary to exchange information in the middle of the road. Mr. Brimmer stated that the topic is relevant as it pertains to SC-41 and other roadways in north Mount Pleasant because drivers will divert to other roadways and the issue needs to be addressed. There is at least one towing company near Huger that may be able to provide a quicker response time and it is a great idea to incorporate other towing companies. One thing that officers do well when there is a crash involving lane closures is to deploy an officer at US-17 and SC-41 to divert traffic and asked if a diversion plan could be implemented more quickly to divert traffic and adjust the timing of the lights to allow traffic to flow more quickly. Chief Ritchie stated that officers have access to an override switch that allows the ability to manually override signals to traffic flowing agreeing that identifying different arterials is important. Sign boards are used with the DOT to alert drivers, as best we can, to events and social media is utilized as well. Mr. Cunnane asked how long it would take for staff to identify possible refuge areas. Mr. DeMoura stated that if Committee members are comfortable with staff meeting to discuss the issue, ideas and possible solutions could be provided at the next Committee meeting inviting Committee to participate in the discussion. 8. Update – ongoing projects Mayor Haynie asked the audience if anyone was present to specifically to hear the update on ongoing projects noting that the meeting was running behind schedule. [None]  Transportation Committee Minutes March 5, 2018 Page 20 of 20 Mayor Haynie stated that Coleman Boulevard and Highway 41 have both been discussed and asked if there were any other significant updates that needed to be discussed and a report would be published as part of the record. Mr. Morrison stated that public meetings were held on the Long Point Road Realignment and Extension project and the Billy Swails Boulevard project. Both meetings were well attended and data, input and feedback is being processed to share with Committee on both projects. A separate meeting was conducted relating to Park West Boulevard to look at some initial design concepts for modification of the roundabout and walking path. Mr. Cunnane thanked staff for the holding the public meetings noting that he was in attendance at both meetings. 9. Adjourn There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:27 a.m. Respectfully submitted by, Cathy Godsey March 8, 2018  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MEMORANDUM To: Mayor William Haynie Transportation Committee From: Brad Morrison Cc: Eric DeMoura Date: March 5, 2018 Re: Consideration of FY 2018 Traffic Calming Program Applications ______________________________________________________________________________ The purpose of this memo is to address Agenda Item #4 of the March Transportation Committee meeting. A total of 15 applications were received this year for the Town’s Traffic Calming Program (see summary attachment). • 6 of the applicants met the program’s minimum requirements of an 85th percentile speed 5 MPH or greater than the posted speed limit for a proposed total of 13 speed humps at a cost of approximately $45,500. • Of those 6 applications, the Deparment is waiting to receive 3 petitions which requires 75% approval from residents in the defined project area (highlighted in yellow). • 8 of the applicants did not meet the program’s speed requirements. • 1 neighborhood withdrew and wishes to pursue a more comprehensive neighborhood wide traffic calming approach. Staff recommends all 6 applicants who met the program’s speed requirement be considered for funding approval, pending the successful return of the petitions. 100 ANN EDWARDS LANE, MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29464 TEL: (843) 856-3080 WWW.TOMPSC.COM  2017 / 2018 Traffic Calming Program Year Evaluation Criteria 5.1 Evaluation Criteria 5.2 Evaluation Criteria 5.3 Other Factors - 5 pts each (Maximum 30 points) Located near a playground, recreational area, daycare center, school or any High speed of traffic (maximum 50 total points) One or more reported, speed related accidents in the last 2 years Cut-through traffic (at least 35% of traffic appears to be cut-through) High volume of Traffic (Maximum 40 total points) 5 points for each 1mph above which the observed 85th percentile speed 40 POINTS = volumes > 4,000 vehicles per day Potential speed hump count Potential speed hump costs Town of Mount Pleasant exceeds the posted speed limit (up to 10 mph) 30 POINTS = volume between 3,000 - 3,999 vehicles per day Traffic Calming Program Narrow street (less than 22 feet) Street has severe hills and/or curves other facility that creates an increased presence of children. Prioritizied Order 20 POINTS = volume between 2,000 - 2,999 vehicles per day Note: To qualify, the 85th percentile speed must be at least 5mph Total Points 10 POINTS = volume between 1,000 - 1,999 vehicles per day above the posted speed limit No sidewalks 0 POINTS = volume < 1,000 vehicles per day 85th % speed Points 24 hr. ADT Points Points Points Points Points Points Points Must be ≥ 5 mph over the posted speed limit Points awarded for volume Accidents Points Yes / No Points Width Points Yes / No Points Yes / No Points Yes / No Points Street / Subdivision Royall Avenue / Old Mount Pleasant Area 35 50 3,040 30 0 0 Yes 0 20' 5 No 0 No 0 Yes 5 90 1 2 7,000.00 Camellia Dr. / Armsway 34 45 840 0 0 0 No 5 21' 5 No 0 No 0 Yes 5 65 2 2 7,000.00 Attley Street / Hamlin Plantation 34 45 1,085 10 0 0 Yes 0 22' 0 No 0 No 0 No 0 55 3 2 7,000.00 Royall Links Drive / Charleston National 36 50 950 0 0 0 Yes 0 24' 0 No 0 No 0 No 0 50 4 2 7,000.00 Ellington Woods Dr. / Ellington Woods 33 40 961 0 1 5 Yes 0 24' 0 No 0 No 0 No 0 45 6 2 7,000.00 East Lake / I'On (Note: Posted speed limit 20 mph) 27 35 705 0 0 0 No 5 22' 5 No 0 No 0 No 0 45 6 3 10,500.00 *Yellow indicates pending petition completion Total count 13 Total cost 45,500.00 Sea Gull Dr. / Shemwood II 27 DNQ Palisades / Hobcaw Creek Plantation 26 DNQ Heather Dr / Old Mount Pleasant area 28 DNQ Appling Way / Watermark 29 DNQ Shem Drive / Shemwood 29 DNQ Horseshoe Bend / Sweetgrass 26 DNQ Mount Royall / Long Point 25 DNQ John Bartram / Foxmoor 28 DNQ Hobcaw Dr / Hobcaw (Withdrawn) 34 WD DNQ = Does Not Qualify WD = Withdrawn  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MEMORANDUM To: Mayor William Haynie Transportation Committee From: Brad Morrison Cc: Eric DeMoura Date: March 5, 2018 Re: Radar Feedback Sign Data – 6 Month Review ______________________________________________________________________________ The purpose of this memo is to address Agenda Item #5 of the March Transportation Committee meeting. The radar signs have been programmed to operate in the following manor: • 15 MPH minimum speed display • 30 MPH maximum speed display • At 26 MPH a slow flash is activated which displays the drivers speed up to 30 MPH. • At 30 MPH a fast flash is activated and a message reads either “SLOW DOWN” or “TOO FAST” Staff has compiled speed data from the radar feedback signs to present a 6 month post installation review of McCants Drive (see attachment). • All locations provided an initial reduction in speeds from pre-installation counts: approximately 2 to 7 MPH • Signs appear to be most effective when driver first encounters it when entering the neighborhood Potential applications of the radar feedback sign include: • Residential roads that are ineligible per the Town’s Traffic Calming Program • Residential roads that are eligible for the Town’s Traffic Calming Program but where speed humps are not desired • State-owned residential roads that do not meet SCDOT’s Traffic Calming criteria 100 ANN EDWARDS LANE, MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29464 TEL: (843) 856-3080 WWW.TOMPSC.COM  Pre and Post Radar Sign Installation 3 and 6 Month Study Pre-Installation = 38 mph Pre-Installation = 34 mph Pre Activation = 31 mph Pre Activation = 32 mph Post 3 mo. = 30 mph Post 3 mo. = 30 mph Post 6 mo. = 31 mph Post 6 mo. = 31 mph In – bound McCants Drive Out – bound Pre Activation = 29 mph Pre Activation = 32 mph Post 3 mo. = 28 mph Post 3 mo. = 30 mph Post 6 mo. = 28 mph Post 6 mo. = _ N/A Pre-Installation = 30 mph Sign location Post implementation = 6 Month study