TO: Mayor Thomas J. Weisner
FROM: Eric J. Gallt, City Traffic Engineer
DATE: August 23, 2013
SUBJECT: title
Traffic Study Request for Installation of an All Way Stop at Benton Street and Water Street. Ward 2 Alderman Garza
body
PURPOSE:
To investigate the appropriateness of installing an all way stop at the intersection of Benton Street and Water Street.
BACKGROUND:
A request was presented by a City employee to install an all way stop at the intersection of Benton Street and Water Street. The request was based on safety concerns of both pedestrians and vehicles due to speeds in the area.
DISCUSSION:
The intersection of Benton and Water serves as the main pedestrian access to City employee parking. In addition the intersection does see a regular flow of pedestrians to the medical clinic located on the southeast corner. There are crosswalks on all four legs that are fairly regularly in use but see distinct peak period from 7:00AM-8:00AM and again from 4:00PM-5:00PM.
Vehicle volumes on Benton are moderately heavy while traffic volumes on Water Street are light to moderate. There has not been an accident history at this intersection that would be a cause for concern.
The intersection is approximately 400 feet west of a signalized intersection at IL Route 25 and Benton Street.
While the intersection as a stand-alone may be considered for an all way stop based on pedestrian volume, the proximity to IL Route 25 is a concern. In addition the geometry of the approach legs would make stop signs on Benton a visibility issue. Based on these two factors it is staff's opinion that an all way stop would see an increase in crashes and not provide a documentable safety enhancement.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
No impact based on staff recommendation
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends denial
cc: Alderman Hart-Burns, Chairman
Alderman Johnson
Alderman Mesiacos
Alderman Mervine, Alternate