A traffic light is planned for Jefferson and West Lake avenues, where over the last five years, the intersection has averaged almost one traffic accident per month.
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City Council adopted a resolution (AR-149-24) in June, awarding a $98,550 contract to T&M Associates.
The decision to move ahead with a traffic light came after “continued complaints about traffic control issues” at the intersection, which were primarily accidents, according to Rachel Smith, chief communications officer for the city.
Smith explained that five years of data were reviewed, during which 55 accidents occurred at the intersection – an average of almost one per month. As a result, an engineering study was conducted by the city to evaluate which of the following would be most effective:
- Enhanced traffic stop signs on Jefferson Avenue;
- An all-way stop at the intersection; or,
- A traffic signal at West Lake Avenue.
The results of the study, according to Smith, found that an all-way stop or a traffic signal were the best steps toward improved safety. “Given that the intersection already experienced numerous accidents on account of vehicles ignoring the stop signs, our professionals recommended a traffic signal be installed.”
The change is just one new traffic safety measure being added along Jefferson Avenue. At the July 8 City Council meeting, a proposal for a four-way stop at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and Stone Street was introduced, with approval coming at the Aug. 12 meeting.
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