Intersection Congestion

Memorandum

TO:

FROM:

DATE: September 13, 2005

SUBJECT: Congestion at intersection of West and North streets

There is a serious problem with traffic control during rush hour. Since West street does not run straight through North street, traffic gets backed up for many blocks on West Street. This causes up to a thirty minute delay during busy traffic hours on West Street, as well as a congested and slow moving North Street. The split on West Street also forces the city engineers to use stop signs at both intersections of West Street, where it joins North Street. The stop signs are the main reason for the long traffic delays, since traffic on West Street has to wait for an opening to turn in either direction onto North Street.

I propose that the problem be solved by creating one intersection, where North and South street meet. At the intersection of North and South Street I propose we replace the existing stop signs with a traffic light. This will allow for a more continuous flow of traffic, also the addition of turning lanes will allow for a heavier volume of traffic to use the intersection, with minimal delays.

I have attached a figure of the original and proposed intersection to further explain the traffic situation. North Street is the street running north and south in both figures; West Street runs west and east in both figures. I have also attached a copy of my office hours, please feel free to contact me any time during the times slots that are not shaded, if you have any questions.

Encl.: Table 1 - Office Hours

Figure 1 - Proposed Intersection

Figure 2 - Original Intersection

Table 1 - Office Hours

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

11:00-11:30

11:30-12:00

12:00-12:30

12:30-1:00

1:00-1:30

1:30-2:00

2:00-2:30

2:30-3:00

3:00-3:30

3:30-4:00

4:00-4:30

4:30-5:00

5:00-5:30

5:30-6:00

6:00-6:30

6:30-7:00