City of Alexandria, Virginia
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MEMORANDUM
DATE: SEPTEMBER 5, 2018
TO: THE HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF CITY COUNCIL
FROM: MARK B. JINKS, CITY MANAGER /s/
DOCKET TITLE:
TITLE
Consideration of a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk Beacon (HAWK) Traffic Signal at the Intersection of Franklin and Alfred Streets.
BODY
ISSUE: Consideration of whether to install a High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk Beacon (HAWK) at the intersection of Franklin and Alfred Streets to control cars and allow pedestrians to cross safely.
RECOMMENDATION: That City Council approve the installation of the HAWK traffic signal at the Franklin Street and Alfred Street intersection, with approval to upgrade to a full traffic signal in the future if warrants are met.
BACKGROUND: Franklin Street is a one-way street going eastbound and serves as a major entry point to Old Town. Alfred Street is two-way and runs parallel to Patrick Street. In 2015 staff installed curb extensions, high visibility crosswalks and signage to improve this crossing however, pedestrians continue to face challenges because of the high traffic volume and speed and wide crossing distance. Additionally, there is a bus stop on the south side of Franklin Street.
DISCUSSION: During the Route 1 South Small Area Plan planning process, staff received a number of comments and heard concerns regarding pedestrian safety at the intersection of Franklin and Alfred streets. Staff also received consistent comments about this intersection in the Vision Zero planning effort. This intersection is adjacent to a high-crash corridor and staff has previously implemented measures to improve pedestrian safety at this location. However, the volume of vehicles turning right from Route 1 onto Franklin Street, particularly in the morning, continues to be a risk factor. Because of the ongoing community concerns, wide street width and volume of traffic, staff is recommending additional measures be taken to improve the safe...
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