HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-16-2021 Traffic Commission Packet
TRAFFIC COMMISSION
City Hall—Council Chambers, 590 40th Ave NE
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
6:00 PM
AGENDA
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION FOR THE PUBLIC
Members of the public who wish to attend may do so in-person, by calling 1-312-626-6799 and
entering meeting ID 841 3938 9560 or by Zoom at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84139389560. For
questions please call the Public Works Department at 763-706-3700.
APPROVE MINUTES
1. ACCEPT OCTOBER 19, 2021 MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. MODIFICATION TO THE TWO HOUR PARKING ZONE IN FRONT OF 3932 CENTRAL AVENUE
OLD BUSINESS
3. REQUEST TO REVIEW YIELD SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 7TH STREET AND 41ST
AVENUE
NEW BUSINESS
4. REQUEST TO INSTALL TWO-WAY STOP SIGNS AT INTERSECTIONS OF 4TH STREET AND 46TH
AVENUE AND 47TH AVENUE
REPORTS
City Engineer
Police Chief
Commissioners
ADJOURNMENT
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is
made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements.
1
TRAFFIC COMMISSION
City Hall—Council Chambers, 590 40th Ave NE
Tuesday, October 19, 2021
6:00 PM
UNAPPROVED MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Schluender at 6:01 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present: Ciesynski, Davis, Nekora, Schluender
Members absent: Finkelson
Staff present: Kathy Young, Assistant City Engineer
Captain Markham, Police
Sue Schmidtbauer, Administrative Assistant
Council Liaison: Amáda Márquez Simula (Absent)
APPROVE MINUTES
1. Motioned by Davis, seconded by Ciesynski, to approve the minutes of September 21, 2021 as
presented. Motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. REQUEST FOR STOP SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 6TH STREET AND 41ST AVENUE
Residents Present: Alexandra Evens, 4040 6th Street Martha Grave, 4048 6th Street
Brad Walters, 4044 6th Street Adam Dodge, 4048 6th Street
Krista Ehrenberg, 4044 6th Street
At the September Traffic Commission meeting commissioners called for a Public Hearing to install stop
signs at the intersection of 6th Street and 41st Avenue stopping traffic on 6th Street.
Ms. Alexandra Evens lives at 4040 6th Street. She attended the Traffic Commission meeting two
months ago in support of the stop signs. She feels they are absolutely needed and will make things a
lot safer. She is here today to again express her support for the stop signs.
Brad Walters lives at 4044 6th Street. He was involved in the accident on August 14 and is lucky to have
survived. He has seen multiple non-conforming accidents at this intersection where someone could
have lost their life. There was also a recent accident on 7th Street and 41st Avenue. Mr. Walters stated
he was eastbound on 41st Avenue at a standstill and the other driver was traveling northbound at
approximately 65 mph when he was hit. States they see this every day, vehicles are never going less
than 35 mph. There are children and dogs in the neighborhood. He wants a stop sign.
Krista Ehrenberg, Mr. Walters’ fiancée, stated she is lucky to have him with her after the accident. She
was informed at the scene the person who hit him did not have a license or insurance and was a repeat
offender. She thanked the commission for bringing this forward and putting in the stop sign.
2
Item 1.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES October 19, 2021
Traffic Commission Page 2
Martha Grave lives at 4048 6th St. She and her husband were home when Brad was hit and it was
horrifying. There are a lot of children in the neighborhood. If a child would have been playing outside
they would have been killed. She’s doesn’t think a stop sign will prevent accidents but feels drivers
need some signage to give them direction. This intersection is one block from 40th Avenue with no
warning that it is an uncontrolled intersection so feels a stop sign is warranted.
Ciesynski asked the residents which direction would be more effective for the stop signs, east-west or
north-south. Mr. Walters feels north-south on 6th Street would be better; there’s more north-south
traffic than east-west, especially with the traffic that comes off 40th Avenue.
Davis advised that per discussion at the previous meeting, commissioners also felt stopping traffic
north-south would make the most sense.
Motion by Davis to recommend the City Council install stop signs at the intersection of 6th Street and
41st Avenue stopping traffic on 6th Street. Seconded by Nekora. Motion passed unanimously.
OLD BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
Davis asked Captain Markham about the accident on 7th Street and 41st Avenue. Captain Markham did
not have the report in front of him but thinks it was a violation of the yield sign. Davis asked if this will
give the commissioners another opportunity to take a look at that intersection and look at Finkelson’s
suggestion to alternate stop signs--this may be the opportunity to put an east-west stop sign on 7th
Street. Captain Markham will gather more information.
Davis stated he lives in the apartment building at 3932 Central Avenue across from the Heights
Theater. There are only 11 parking spots and one is handicapped so there is not enough parking for
everyone. There is two hour parking outside of the building. Tenants used to park in the vacant lot at
the library, then they went to the east side but the new City Hall is being built there, so that leaves the
lot next to Fairview which is currently under maintenance. This leaves them in a difficult position.
Citations were issued to at least three tenants so he is requesting the two hour parking in front of their
building be modified or removed. He knows this is an apartment building and typically this is the
responsibility of the owner so he’s not sure how this will work. Young advised staff can notify the
residents of the building. Davis would like to call a Public Hearing to get input from community
members to see what would be most beneficial. He would like to see the hours changed. Young
cautioned against making a motion today and to just modify the two hour parking if calling for a Public
Hearing.
Motion by Davis to call for a Public Hearing at the next Traffic Commission meeting for modification to
the two hour parking zone in front of 3932 Central Avenue. Seconded by Ciesynski. Motion passed
unanimously.
REPORTS
City Engineer
The bicycle lane striping is completed on Reservoir Boulevard. Staff is still waiting for symbols and
signs for the bicycle lanes. 3
Item 1.
City of Columbia Heights MINUTES October 19, 2021
Traffic Commission Page 3
The flashing lights and stop bars were added at 50 th Avenue and Jackson Street.
A disabled parking sign was installed at 5141 4th Street and one is or will be installed at 4208 Monroe
Street.
Police Chief
None
Commissioners
Schluender stated he talked to a couple people over the last month which raised some questions
regarding general street safety plans and asked if the City has any policies for this. Young advised the
City has not adopted the Complete Streets policy citywide but as we redo streets we do look for
opportunities to improve safety; one example being extending the trail on 37th Avenue to the east in
2023 and adding a connection between 37th Avenue and Stinson Boulevard along 37th Place. Staff does
try to improve safety as they are designing projects. If residents want to speak with someone directly
they can speak to Kevin Hansen, if they have a more formal request they can submit it to Traffic
Commission.
Ciesynski asked about the pedestrian crosswalk at 49th Avenue and Washington Street. Stated there
are a lot of drivers that are confused and are stopping there. Young advised the intent was to remind
motorists that if a pedestrian is waiting to cross the street they need to stop. If there is no one waiting
to cross, traffic does not need to stop. Markham advised that if someone is in the crosswalk vehicles
need to stop. Young advised part of this is due to the school and there were a couple of calls regarding
residents trying to get across and having trouble. This is marked as a school crossing. Davis suggested
a yield to pedestrians sign instead of stop for pedestrians sign may work better. He’s seen both
versions.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Davis, seconded by Schluender to adjourn the meeting at 6:25 p.m. Motion passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Schmidtbauer
Administrative Assistant
Auxiliary aids or other accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request when the request is
made at least 72 hours in advance. Please contact Administration at 763-706-3610 to make arrangements.
4
Item 1.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION
AGENDA SECTION PUBLIC HEARING
MEETING DATE NOVEMBER 16, 2021
ITEM:
REQUEST FOR MODIFICATION TO THE TWO HOUR PARKING ZONE IN FRONT OF 3932 CENTRAL
AVENUE
DEPARTMENT: Public Works BY/DATE: Kathy Young/November 9, 2021
BACKGROUND: At the October Traffic Commission meeting commissioners called for a Public Hearing to
modify the two hour parking zone in front of 3932 Central Avenue . The Public Hearing Notice was published
in the paper and postcards were mailed to property owners and building tenants on Central Avenue from 39th
to 40th Avenues.
There are 22 units in this apartment building and only 11 parking spots, one being handicapped, so there is not
enough parking for all the tenants. Two hour parking is posted on the west side of Central Avenue from 37th
Avenue to 40th Avenue. Tenants are able to park in the parking ramp at 4025 Van Buren Street. When the
ramp is closed for maintenance or other reasons, tenants are left in a difficult position. Mr. Adam Davis is
requesting the two hour parking in front of the building be modified or removed.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: The availability of parking on Central Avenue has been an ongoing concern for
adjacent business owners. Staff recommends the parking designation be consistent for the entire block.
City code 7.205 prohibits parking on any street or roadway for a continuous period longer than six hours.
RECOMMENDED MOTION(S): None
MOTION:
ATTACHMENT(S): Aerial
5
Item 2.
³
Disclaimer: Map and parcel data are believed to be accurate, but accuracy is not guaranteed. This is not a legal document andshould not be substituted for a title search, appraisal, survey, or for zoning verification.
Central Ave, 39th to 40th Ave
Date: 11/9/20211:1,200Anoka County GIS
Owner Information:Parcel Information: Approx. Acres:Commissioner: Plat:
6
Item 2.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION
AGENDA SECTION OLD BUSINESS
MEETING DATE NOVEMBER 16, 2021
ITEM: REQUEST TO REVIEW YIELD SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 7TH STREET AND 41ST AVENUE
DEPARTMENT: Public Works BY/DATE: Kathy Young/November 9, 2021
BACKGROUND: At the October Traffic Commission meeting, Commissioner Davis requested accident
information for the intersection of 7th Street and 41st Avenue.
Staff reviewed the visibility at the intersection and found it to be good.
On 7th Street, traffic stops at 40th Avenue and 44th Avenue. On 41st Avenue, traffic stops at 5th Street and
Jefferson Street. A map of the traffic control in the area between University Avenue and Jefferson Street from
40th Avenue to 44th Avenue is included.
Accident information is provided in the attached report from the Police Department. A summary of the
reported accidents is provided below:
Date Type
10/11/2021 Angle
09/21/2018 Westbound driver swerved and collided with eastbound driver.
08/02/2017 Angle
The Traffic Commission denied a request for stop signs at this intersection in December 2010. The issue was
conflicts between vehicles and pedestrian traffic generated by the mosque on 7 th Street. The Traffic
Commission’s decision was appealed to the City Council in February 2011. The City Council ordered yield signs
at this intersection and on Washington Street at 41st Avenue. The City Council minutes are included.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: None.
RECOMMENDED MOTION(S):
MOTION: None.
ATTACHMENT(S): MMUTCD Guidelines for Two-Way Stop and Yield Signs
Police Department Memo
Aerial
Yield and Stop Sign Map
City Council Minutes 2/14/2011
7
Item 3.
MINNESOTA MANUAL ON UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
SEPTEMBER 2020
The MUTCD guidelines for installing STOP or YIELD signs at intersections are
listed below:
Engineering judgment should be used to establish intersection control. The
following factors should be considered:
A. Vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic volumes on all approaches;
B. Number and angle of approaches;
C. Approach speeds;
D. Sight distance available on each approach; and
E. Reported crash experience.
YIELD or STOP signs should be used at an intersection if one or more of the
following conditions exist:
A. An intersection of a less important road with a main road where
application of the normal right-of-way rule would not be expected to
provide reasonable compliance with the law;
B. A street entering a designated through highway or street; and/or
C. An unsignalized intersection in a signalized area.
In addition, the use of YIELD or STOP signs should be considered at the
intersection of two minor streets or local roads where the intersection has more
than three approaches and where one or more of the following conditions exist:
A. The combined vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian volume entering the
intersection from all approaches averages more than 2,000 units per day.
B. The ability to see conflicting traffic on an approach is not sufficient to allow
a road user to stop or yield in compliance with the normal right -of-way rule
if such stopping or yielding is necessary; and/or
C. Crash records indicate that five or more crashes that involve the failure to
yield the right-of-way at the intersection under the normal right-of-way rule
have been reported within a 3-year period, or that three or more such
crashes have been reported within a 2- year period.
YIELD or STOP signs should not be used for speed control.
8
Item 3.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
To: Columbia Heights Traffic Commission
From: Matt Markham, Captain
Subject: Accidents at 41st Ave NE and 7th St NE
Date: November 1st, 2021
Below is a list of accidents that have occurred at the intersection of 41st Ave NE and 7th St NE over the last
five years.
10/11/2021, 07:47 am:
Personal Injury Accident. Vehicle traveling eastbound on 41st Avenue collided with a vehicle
traveling northbound on 7th Street after the northbound vehicle stopped at a yield sign, there was no
sign indicating the eastbound vehicle should stop. The collision resulted in injuries to the eastbound
vehicle’s driver.
09/21/2018, 01:57 pm:
Personal Injury Accident. Vehicle was traveling westbound on 41st Avenue and collided with a
vehicle leaving the parked position, the westbound vehicle then went into oncoming traffic and
collided with a vehicle traveling eastbound on 41st Avenue, causing injuries to the eastbound
vehicle’s driver.
08/02/2017, 03:40 pm:
Personal Injury Accident. Vehicle traveling eastbound on 41st Avenue collided with a vehicle
traveling northbound on 7th Street. The northbound vehicle disregarded a yield sign and caused
injuries to the eastbound vehicle’s driver.
9
Item 3.
7th St and 41st Ave
04/04/2020
10
Item 3.
4141
4306
233
4310
4100
30 0
4101
4200
41 60
4141
4111
4130
5734001
4171
310
4322
4242
41 55
4120
636
315
535
4201
4233
249
253
349
224
257
250
248
411
4250
612
615
252
256
4255
4039
4323
4407
4308
4312
41 00
240
4205
4136
4332
4332
4025
4136
4100
241
320
636
649
221
4333
4241
4255
4301
4236
4357
637
605
4211
4256
4226
4220
4245
411 5
4042
4117
4311
4330
4061
4041
4340
40 45
4142
4245
41 41
4309
4216
4156
4154
4345
4335
4404
4043
4233
4056
4209
4148
4243
4239
4256
4031
4032
4206
4223
4401
4232
4344
4212
4403
4347
4321
4325
4337
4354
4034
4016 40174016
4041
321
4346
4358
4358
555
4300
43264323
4300
4056 405640554057
4250
4209
4227
4356
4347
4305 4307
543
43 04
539
317
4331
313
309
4002
4000
432
4300
652
656
672
640
662
666
648
4324
218
4136
615
643
609
585
670
4015 4017
4037
4323
4016
4211
4316
4343
4335
4329
4350
42 19
4018
4024
4216
4212
4149
4013
42 09
4144
42 51
42 57
4400
4356
4141
4044
4262
4132 4129
4240
4257
4251 4256
4144
4050
4208
4158
4212
4218
42034200
4236
4401
4228
4301
4308
604
4300
4313
4319
657
665
4328
4244
4014
4335
4343
528
4232
4144
4321
4313
4256
42 52
4300
40 51
40 59
4022 4021
4224
4021
4325
330
4326
4338
4344
4307
4320
4334
4348
4301
42 48
4340
626
4257
4015
4319
423
40 1
40 1
41 0
301
580
427
509
4245
4251
4346
4314
4350
4306
4320
4329
4351
4002
4357
4323 4318
4300
4111
4331
508
4359
4010
4006
4343
4337
500
608
506
4351
4326
411 6
411 0 411 0
411 64117
4329 4322
4328
4340
4334
4159
4145
4256
4345
4311
4323
4329
4327
4353
4345
4337
4314
43104307
4303
4307
4341
4312
4028
4355
4341
4345
4311
4156
4100
4120
4052
4151
4032
4150
4140
4120
4131
4140
4156
4036
4056
4126
4106
4139
4146
4157
4046
4130
4138
4026
4042
4129
4147
4022
4122
4146
4126
4141
4126
4235
4150
4201
4055
4057
4331
4047
4143
4043
4037
4131
4137
4033
4025
4129
4021
4125
4107
4101
4301
4310
43154319
4315
4307 4304
5 3 0
4349
4230
4337
5
4
6
4306
4404
4215
671
220
4132
4212
4330
4356
305
320
4111 4111
4221
4018
4036
316
411 7
411 24113
411 7 411 84118
4211
4311
4011
411 4
411 0
411 2
411 6
411 5
4040
411 0
411 6
411 5
411 7
440144014401
4141
4312
4321
4316
4321
4301
4344
4045
4300 43004301
4125
40 25
4023
4304
4125
4200
4038
4145
4148
4015
4105
41 31
4240
4334
4022
4232
4257
4021
4044
4137
41 49
40 13
4033 4034
4104
41 09 4108
41 21
4124
4134
4129
4034
4206
4212
4230
4243
4248
4305
4256
4224
4320
4324
4353
4044
42 37
4354
4244
4333
40 17
4107
4152
4158
4130
4220
4236
4345
4033
4029
4157
4012 4012
40 39
4002
4348
4008
4156
4040
4051
4012
4223
4030
4124
4022
4133
4217
4253
4139 4138
4042
4027
4228
4200
4222
4208
4034
4233
4256
4328
4106
4153
4205
4231
4232
4250
4325
4337
4320
4026
4241
4344
42 45
4328
4349
4018
4047
4041
4050
42 05
4220
4046
4102
4244
4017
4225
4120
4201
4213
4240
4338
4008
41 53
40 33
4120
4132
41 39
4201
4209
42 27
4233
4245
4039
4205
4104
40 31
4213
4340
42 23
4237
4124
4352
4229
4324
4342
4204
4236
4128
4208
4217
4221
42 33
4304
4308
4336
4316
4225
4353
42 29
4200
4242
4249
41 35
4332
4101
4031
4025 4026
4405
4317
4018
4257
4236
4254
4129
4149
4108
4038
4100
4252
4141
4030 4030
4224
41204121
4324
4404
4346
4036
4141
4204
4226
4237
4305
4341
4344
4334
42 41
4329
40 09
41 25
4019
4328
4228
4218
40 23
4121
4148
4101
4232
4040
4405
4128
4349
4253
4048
41 05
4320
4133
4337
4244
4407
4228
4038
4213
4131
4153
4049
4225
4024
4227
4151
4057
4157
4247
4106
4039 4039
4109
4101
4029
4145
4043
4049
4249
4105
4239
4240
4028
4101
4047
4237
4044
4048
4109
4121
4136
4100
4253
4025
4215
4219
4051
4127
4036
4135
4032
4221 4222
4236
4404 4407 4406
4356
40514050
4317
4400
4100
4312
4357
4325
4348
4315
4359 4356
4400 440044004400
4000
4041
4244
4055
4212
4052
4025
4057
4204
4033
4221
4244
4201
4040
4250
4205
4217
4234
4039
4151
4022
4217
4053
4233
4121
4145
4059
4129
4056
4243
4153
4021
4242
4024
4033
4135
4029
4055
4216
4045
4105
4157
4257
4221
4232
42254226
4108
4229
4251
4252
4219
4153
4201
4209
4237
4215
4222
4248
4224
4247
4045
4235
4208
4259
4157
4255
4205
4241
4149
4244
4403
4318
4352
4141
312
308
4024
4227
4404
218
214
4400
4315
4344
548
4216
4239
4237
4235
4233
4301
4303
4058
4056
4219
4213
4307
4319 43094317
4057
4055
4051
4049
4353
4359
4357
4351
4147
560
550
501
503
547
325
324
260
300
321
301
301
261
41 51
304
317
313
309
305
UNITS:
101-103
201-203
UN ITS:
101-104
&
201-204
GARAGES:
1-10
UNITS:
101-106
&
201-206UNITS:
101-103
&
201-202
UNITS:
101-106
&
201-204
UNITS:
101-106
&
201-206
UNITS:
101-103
&
201-203
UNITS:
101-103
&
201-203
UNITS:
1-20
556
624
620
7T
H
5T
H
3R
D
6T
H
4T
H
AVE AVE44TH
AVE43RD
AVE 42ND
ST
AVE
MA
D
I
S
O
N
JE
F
F
E
R
S
O
N
WA
S
H
I
N
G
T
O
N
7T
H
ST
ST ST
ST
ST
6T
H
ST
4T
H
5T
H
40TH
ST
3R
D
AVE 41ST
AVE
AVE
WA
S
H
I
N
G
T
O
N
MA
D
I
S
O
N
JE
F
F
E
R
S
O
N
MA
D
I
S
O
N
JE
F
F
E
R
S
O
N
WA
S
H
I
N
G
T
O
N
7T
H
STST STST
ST
6T
H
ST
4T
H
5T
H
ST
MAUREEN LN
KAREN LN
KATHY LN
ST
3R
D
!"$!"$!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$!"$!"$
!"$
!"$!"$
!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$!"$
YIELD YIELD
YIELD YIELD
YIELD
YIELD
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
City of
Columbia Heights
®
GIS / ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Map Date:
Map Author:
LEGEND
!"$STOP SIGN
4 WAY STOP
YIELD SIGN
November 2021
K Young
!"$
YIELD
11
Item 3.
City Council Minutes
Monday, February 14, 2011
Page 3 of 9
Nawrocki indicated that we have problems getting full attendance for 6 p.m. meetings. Patty
Muscovitz, City Clerk, indicated that the 6 p.m. meeting time was requested by Anoka County.
Peterson asked Williams to adjust his schedule to attend the meeting. Nawrocki stated it was not
fair of the County to limit the meeting to only two possible nights. Peterson stated that this time
we can honor their request and ask for more flexibility in the future.
Motion by Diehm, second by Williams, to establish the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
meeting date for Monday, April 11, 2011, at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. Upon vote:
All ayes. Motion carried.
D. Request for Four -Way Stop Signs on 7th Street and 41st Avenue
Peterson stated that the Traffic Commission has recommended no signage at this site. Staff has
suggested several alternatives. Kevin Hansen, Public Works Director, stated this item is an
appeal of the Traffic Commission recommendation. Hansen indicated the criteria that staff looks
at to determine signage, which includes traffic volume, vehicles and pedestrians, number of legs
4), approach speeds (30 mph), site distance, and the crash record. Determinations are guided by
federal and state MUTCD restrictions, which regulate where signs can be placed for intersection
control. Regulations are different for low volume residential streets. This street does not meet the
criteria for the placement of stop signs. Staff looked at the possibility of installing yield signs and
believes that the North and South entrance could use yield signs. Staff also reviewed removing
parking within 20 feet from the intersection, and feels it would be beneficial. It remains staff's
recommendation to look at yield signs for 7 Street and to restrict parking to improve visibility.
Diehm stated there are a number of similar intersections in this area. Is this looked at on a case
by case basis or do we look at the surrounding area as well? Hansen stated both. The
investigation is initiated when we get a request, such as 41 and Washington was in 2009 and we
then also look at other intersections in the area. Diehm stated that she was involved in an
accident at an uncontrolled intersection; residents realize these intersections are uncontrolled, but
visitors may not. Hansen stated that at an uncontrolled intersection the rules are that the vehicle
on the left yields to the vehicle on the right, or the first vehicle to the intersection has the right -
of- way. Hansen stated the perception that stop signs stop accidents is not true. He referred to the
false sense of security where stop signs are placed.
Peterson asked if the regulations include corners with churches. Whatever action is taken here
we should also do at 41 and Washington. Hansen stated that land use is not considered. Speed,
volume, and accidents are considered for sign determination. Peterson referred to the discrepancy
in the number of accidents reported at this intersection. Hansen indicated that because of the
dates, the last two accidents may not have been included. Fehst stated there was one in October
2010, but none reported through January 2011.
Nawrocki questioned the rational for the stop sign at Jefferson and 41 Avenue. He stated it is
typical to want stop signs in your area but not the areas you drive in. Nawrocki asked if the
accidents were during church service dates and times. Hansen listed the times.
Abdulbaset Elhshik, Islamic Center of MN, 4056 7 Street, stated that their service times vary
and the accidents were probably at that time. This request is also by surrounding residents and
the church at Washington and 41 Avenue.
A resident living at 41 and 7 Street stated that on December 28, 2010 there was an accident on
42 Drivers do not mind the speed limits. He asked if stop signs were placed in one direction if
12
Item 3.
City Council Minutes
Monday, February 14, 2011
Page 4 of
it would help. Hansen again gave the federal requirements.
Schmitt indicated that most churches in our community have a controlled intersection by their
facility. These are the only two that do not. They sometimes share a parking lot, which results in
many pedestrians crossing the street. She referred to the Traffic Commission site review. Hansen
indicated the engineering process to review an intersection.
Eric Ness, 4057 7 Street, stated he lives on the Southeast corner and sees people driving 35 mph
on 41 Avenue that do not check the other directions as they cross. For safety, this has to change.
Peterson asked him in which direction would it be best to slow traffic. Ness stated that north and
south is the least used. Diehm stated that on 7 Street from 40 through 44 Avenue there are no
stop or yield signs.
Nawrocki stated the suggestions are reasonable and that we should consider both.
Motion by Nawrocki, to authorize installation of "Yield" signs on 7 Street and 41 Avenue,
yielding traffic on 7th Street, based on the configuration of the intersection and the amount of
pedestrian traffic generated by the nearby mosque and church, and to also designate "No
Parking" for 20' from the intersection on the approach lanes for 7 Street and 41 Avenue.
Nawrocki stated that 7 Street has historically been a through street in our city. Peterson asked if
Nawrocki would consider adding to his motion yield signs at Washington Street for St. Matthews
Church. Nawrocki asked if there should be a public hearing. Hansen stated this was brought
forward by them in October of 2009. Peterson stated that we will try this and see if it works or
we can review the results. Schmitt stated that yield signs are effective, but vehicles must yield to
pedestrians in crosswalks. Hansen stated that removal of crosswalks at low volume intersections
has improved safety. Schmitt recommended tabling this for resident input. Peterson again
indicated that what is good for this intersection would also be good for the Washington
intersection.
Diehm seconded the motion.
Peterson explained what this motion means and indicated that pedestrians do have the right -of-
way. Hoeft stated that the law is specific on who has the right -of -way and we are unable to
explain all of the various situations at this meeting.
Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Williams, second by Diehm, to authorize the installation of "Yield" signs on
Washington Street (North and South) at 41 Avenue, and also designate "No Parking" for 20'
from the intersection on the approach lanes for Washington and 41 Avenue.
Schmitt asked when this would take effect. Hansen stated that signage is usually placed in mid to
late April.
Upon vote: All ayes. Motion carried.
F. Approve Public Works Blanket Orders for 2011 Purchases
Nawrocki referred to stop box repair costs. Hansen stated the budgeted amount is based on past
experience. He indicated the estimated costs to repair a curb stop and the process of the petition
13
Item 3.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION
AGENDA SECTION NEW BUSINESS
MEETING DATE NOVEMBER 16, 2021
ITEM:
REQUEST FOR STOP SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 4TH STREET AND 46TH AVENUE
REQUEST FOR STOP SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 4TH STREET AND 47TH AVENUE
DEPARTMENT: Public Works BY/DATE: Kathy Young/November 9, 2021
BACKGROUND: Mr. Shahzad Ali has requested stop signs at the intersections of 4th Street at 46 th Avenue and
47th Avenue. The concern is accidents at the intersection.
4th Street at 46th Avenue
Staff reviewed the visibility at the intersection and found it is somewhat limited because of the hill in the
southeast quadrant of the intersection.
On 4th Street, traffic stops at 45th Avenue and 48th Avenue. Eastbound traffic on 46th Avenue has slowed to
make the turn from University Avenue Service Drive and stops at 5th Street. Westbound traffic on 46th Avenue
stops at 5th Street and University Avenue Service Drive. A map of the traffic control in the area between
University Avenue and Jefferson Street from 45th Avenue to 49th Avenue is included is included in this packet.
Accident information is provided in the attached report from the Police Department. A summary of the
reported accidents is provided below:
Date Type
02/23/2019 Angle collision
10/17/2018 Angle collision
07/26/2018* One vehicle accident. Driver arrested for being under the influence.
01/14/2017 Angle collision
* Accident does not meet the criteria for consideration of a stop sign.
4th Street at 47th Avenue
Staff reviewed the visibility at the intersection and found it to be good. A moderate rise in ground elevation is
present in the southeast quadrant of the intersection, similar to many intersections in Columbia Heights.
On 4th Street, traffic stops at 45th Avenue and 48th Avenue. Eastbound traffic on 47th Avenue has slowed to
make the turn from University Avenue Service Drive and stops at 6th Street. Westbound traffic stops at 6th
Street and University Avenue Service Drive. A map of the traffic control in the area between University
Avenue and Jefferson Street from 45th Avenue to 49th Avenue is included in the packet.
Accident information is provided in the attached report from the Police Department. A summary of the
reported accidents is provided below:
14
Item 4.
Page 2
Date Type
08/24/2021* Driver collided with parked vehicle
10/23/2020 Angle
10/26/2019 Angle
04/11/2017* Driver hit fire hydrant. Details of accident are unknown.
* Accident does not meet the criteria for consideration of a stop sign.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
The number and type of reported accidents do not meet the MMUTCD guideline for installing Stop or Yield
signs.
RECOMMENDED MOTION(S):
MOTION: Move to deny the request for stop signs at the intersection of 4th Street and 46th Avenue.
MOTION: Move to deny the request for stop signs at the intersection of 4 th Street and 47th Avenue.
ATTACHMENT(S): MMUTCD Guidelines for Two-Way Stop and Yield Signs
Police Department Memo (2)
Aerials with 1’ contours displayed (2)
Yield and Stop sign map
Email from Mr. Ali
15
Item 4.
MINNESOTA MANUAL ON UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES
SEPTEMBER 2020
The MUTCD guidelines for installing MULTI-WAY STOP signs at intersections are listed
below:
The decision to install multi-way stop control should be based on an engineering study.
The following criteria should be considered in the engineering study for a multi-way STOP
sign installation:
A. Where traffic control signals are justified, the multi-way stop is an interim measure that
can be installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made for the
installation of the traffic control signal.
B. Five or more reported crashes in a 12-month period that are susceptible to correction
by a multi-way stop installation. Such crashes include right-turn and left-turn collisions
as well as right-angle collisions.
C. Minimum volumes:
1. The vehicular volume entering the intersection from the major street approaches
(total of both approaches) averages at least 300 vehicles per hour for any 8 hours of
an average day; and
2. The combined vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle volume entering the intersection
from the minor street approaches (total of both approaches)averages at least 200
units per hour for the same 8 hours, with an average delay to minor-street vehicular
traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle during the highest hour; but
3. If the 85th-percentile approach speed of the major street traffic exceeds 40 mph, the
minimum vehicular volume warrants are 70 percent of the values provided in Items 1
and 2.
D. Where no single criterion is satisfied, but where Criteria B, C.1, and C.2 are all satisfied
to 80 percent of the minimum values. Criterion C.3 is excluded from this condition.
Other criteria that may be considered in an engineering study include:
A. The need to control left-turn conflicts;
B. The need to control vehicle/pedestrian conflicts near locations that generate high
pedestrian volumes;
C. Locations where a road user, after stopping, cannot see conflicting traffic and is not
able to negotiate the intersection unless conflicting cross traffic is also required to stop;
and
D. An intersection of two residential neighborhood collector (through) streets of similar
design and operating characteristics where multi-way stop control would improve traffic
operational characteristics of the intersection.
16
Item 4.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
To: Columbia Heights Traffic Commission
From: Matt Markham, Captain
Subject: Accidents at 46th Ave NE and 4th St NE
Date: November 1st, 2021
Below is a list of accidents that have occurred at the intersection of 46thAve NE and 4th St NE over the last
five years.
02/23/2019, 04:10 pm:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling northbound on 4th Street collided with a vehicle
traveling westbound on 46th Avenue causing minor damage to vehicles. Road conditions were icy and
snow covered.
10/17/2018, 07:20 am:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling westbound on 46th Avenue collided with a vehicle
traveling northbound on 4th Street causing severe damage to both vehicles.
07/26/2018, 03:24 am:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling westbound on 46th Avenue went off the road and
collided with a tree. Driver arrested for driving under the influence.
01/14/2017, 05:08 pm:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling eastbound on 46th Avenue collided with a vehicle
traveling southbound on 4th Street, causing the southbound vehicle to collide with a fire hydrant. No
injuries reported but severe damage to vehicles.
17
Item 4.
4th St at 46th Ave
04/04/2020
18
Item 4.
COLUMBIA HEIGHTS
POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEMORANDUM
To: Columbia Heights Traffic Commission
From: Matt Markham, Captain
Subject: Accidents at 47th Ave NE and 4th St NE
Date: November 1st, 2021
Below is a list of accidents that have occurred at the intersection of 47th Ave NE and 4th St NE over the last
five years.
08/24/2021, 07:30 am:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling north on 4th Street and collided with a parked vehicle
that was facing south. Driver stated the accident occurred due to the significant amount of rain at the
time of the accident.
10/23/2020, 12:20 pm:
Property Damage Accident. Vehicle traveling northbound on 4th Street to cross 47th Avenue collided
with a vehicle traveling westbound on 47th Avenue to cross 4th Street. Both vehicles had severe
damage and were privately towed.
10/26/2019, 03:54 pm:
Personal Injury Accident. Vehicle traveling southbound on 4th Street collided with a vehicle traveling
westbound on 47th Avenue causing the westbound vehicle to flip onto its side, causing injuries to the
driver.
04/11/2017, 10:00 pm:
Property Damage Hit and Run Accident. Vehicle traveling an unknown direction collided with the
fire hydrant on the northwest corner of 47th Avenue and 4th Street. Driver failed to inform the city of
the accident.
19
Item 4.
4th St at 47th Ave
04/04/2020
20
Item 4.
4757
4755
665
4555
4635
4621
625
588
4600
4557
689
4645
685
4823
47 07
4453
528
4637
4528
670
664
663
669
4520
4617
657
651
4457
4501
591
620
4516
4529
4556
4545
4555
4815
4845
4546
668
674
677
659
655
4638
4537
4719
4713
4840
4805
4833
4712
4724
4843
4837
4853
661
4524
4518
4522
4714
4720
4824
4836
4830
4559
561
581
4528
4532
4855
4628
643
4500
662
656
652
4635
4504
682
651
4603
4525
658
4513
4611
4528
676
682
4445
4649
690
4603
4501
4656
691
685
655
679
661
667
673
4643
715
4656
616
655
4554
4700
4656
4847
4839
4820
4831 4830
4823
4840
4848
4833 4830
4818
4824
4840
4812
652
4510
690
672
678
684
642
684
672
660
666
654
678
648
636
651
4550
4657
4609
4507
686
685
4807
7054905
4855
4800
4856
4537
4801
4837
4751
4838
4721
47364741
4751
4702
4709
4703
4829
4828
4717
4845
4801
48414839
4901
4733
4700
4817
4844
665
4655
4452
4657
4841
4842
4447
4800
4457
4537
4806
4812
4555
4815
4807
4902
4535
4748
4708
4704
4456 4455
475747554755
46 11
4658
4601
4558
4650
47 56
4528
4633
4531
4628
46454642
4605
4620
4616
4642
4615
4652
4608
649
637
669
663
4455
4715
4707
4557
4855
4607
4519
4858
4657
646
4612
691
681
687
4646
551
4860
4545 4542
4601
4605
4600
620
4655
4534
4516
4510
4838
4828
4517
4532
643
425
675
4738
4651
4609
4500
4621
4635
4506
4629
4647
4643
4616
4636
4615
4737
4622
4649
4514
4643
4600
4606
4617
4634
4544
4512
4501
4716
4600
4624
4600
4618
4632
679
560
4553
681
4542
4548
4606
4612
4901
545
48 54
550
4806
4812
4907
4820
4851
4826
48 45
4832
48 39 4838
48 33
48 48
48 42 4844
48 27
4850
48 21
48 13
48 07
4630
4801
4811
4800
4744
4748
671
4800
4900
4708
4825
4834
4849
4809
4734
4846
4715
4732
4809
4906
4740
4716
4827
4554
4601
4625
4619
4801
4847
4807
4815
4852
4820
4806
4854
4448
4536
4627
4538
4800
48 57
4800
4856
48 01
4516
4529
4607
4613
48 06
4638
4527
4656
4650
4644
4636
4704
4630
4614
4626
4632
4618
48 18
46 33
45224525
4855
618
4639
4900
4521
6014500
4644
4701
48 12
4827
4821
4500
4833
403
4642
49 06
4539
4511
4600
4511
4827
4821
600
4853
4510
4608
4449
4741
4517
48534852
48474846
4500
4624
4533
4544
4522
4532
4518
4506
4510
4528
45364538
4558
4532
4512
4527
4539
4533
4528
4504
4516
4505
4521
4554
4541
4522
4517
4547
4507
4545
4533
4517
4513
4549
4529
4525
4537
4557
4553
403
4700
4501
4558
49014901
4501
4900
46 01
4546
4552
4639
4907 4906 4907
4636
4644
46 07
4801
4803
4737
4814
4725
4731
4741
4701
4808
4905
4522
4833
4858 4859
46 13
4726
4732
520
46 25
46 19
4559
4856
4850
4533
4512
4518
4506
4512
4514
4538
4525
4621
4537
4531
4541
4550
401
4453
4501 4500
662
668
650
660
656
654
666
4800
47 11
48 11
4800
4900490149004901
4904
47494749
4753
4817
4720 4723
4724
4752
4816
4820
4904
4828
48174819
4720
4820
4712
4721
4728
4733
4737
4825
4809
4824
4725
4744
4820
4836
4746
4729
4745
4808
4812
4747
4708
4736
4752
4707
4725
4806
4732
4730
4828
4909
4832
4816
4705
4729
4813
4833
4748
4829
4808
4804
4807
4905
4740
4703
4716
4840
4824
4813
4741
4832
4908
4812
4748
4816
648
4448
4452 4452
4448 4450
44534452
4448 4451
44554452
4459
4448
44524453
4449
4456
4540
4502
4504
4542
4550
4558
45034505
4509 4505
45074513
4517
4521
4525
4527
4529
4533
4515
4537
4456
4541
4545
4551
445744574456
4448
4456 4457
4453
4449
4456
4624
4626
4624
4622
4756 47564757
4501
4857
4641
4643
4550
4552
4533
4531
4612
4610
4536
4538
4817
4819
4703
4701
4647
4645
4641
4639
4635
4633
4533
4535
4851
4849
4726
4724
4514
4520
4532
4526
4536
4518
4534
4530
4512
4524
4657
4659
4632
4630
4652
4650
4654
4656
AVE47 1/2
AVE
AVE
AVE47TH
ST ST STSTST
AVE46TH
AVE47TH
ST
ST
AVE
STST
45TH
ST
4T
H
ST
5T
H
48TH
49TH
ST
WA
S
H
I
N
G
T
O
N
JE
F
F
E
R
S
O
N
ST
ST
4T
H
ST
5T
H
ST
WA
S
H
I
N
G
T
O
N
ST
JE
F
F
E
R
S
O
N
AVE46 1/2
6T
H
ST
6T
H
ST
!"$!"$
YIELD
YIELD !"$
!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$!"$
!"$!"$!"$!"$
!"$!"$
!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$!"$!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
SE
R
V
I
C
E
R
O
A
D
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
!"$
City of
Columbia Heights
®
GIS / ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Map Date:
Map Author:
LEGEND
!"$STOP SIGN
4 WAY STOP
YIELD SIGN
TRAFFIC
SIGNAL
November 2021
K Young
!"$
YIELD
èé
èé
21
Item 4.
1
Kathy Young
Subject:FW: Stop Sign 4th and 47th, 4th and 48th.
From: Mr. Ali [mailto:alix0108@umn.edu]
Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2021 9:18 PM
To: Kathy Young
Cc: Kevin Hansen; Sue Schmidtbauer; Amada Marquez Simula
Subject: Re: Stop Sign 4th and 47th, 4th and 48th.
Hi Kathy,
Thank you for the information and yes I would like to attend that meeting, Nov 16th at 6pm.
The statement about disrespect of a stop sign, when a sign is posted such as a stop/do not block/ yield and
others, then those signs must be followed under law. If someone is knowingly breaking those rules then they
never had respect for laws and when they break them they can cause harm to others, themselves and the Police
must cite those individuals. My intent is not speed control but in actuality I am doing this for safety and
consistency in regards to 5th st, 6th and all the other streets that have stop signs in the city of columbia heights.
Thanks
On Thu, Oct 28, 2021 at 2:51 PM Kathy Young <KYoung@columbiaheightsmn.gov> wrote:
Hello-
Thank you for the email concerning the intersections of 4th Street and both 46th Avenue and 47th Avenue. Requests for
Stop or Yield signs are submitted to the Traffic Commission. The Commission reviews conditions at an intersection in
accordance with the guidelines in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Studies have shown that installing
stop or yield signs where they are not warranted results in disrespect for all stop/yield signs. These guidelines for
installation of Stop or Yield signs are attached.
The next meeting is Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Meetings are held in the Council Chambers at City Hall,
590 40th Avenue NE. You may attend in person or via zoom. Please let me know if you would like the request for Stop
or Yield signs on the November agenda and whether you are available to attend the meeting.
Kathy Young | Assistant City Engineer
City of Columbia Heights | Public Works Department
637 38th Avenue NE | Columbia Heights, MN 55421
KYoung@ColumbiaHeightsMN.gov
Direct: (763) 706-3704
Main: (763) 706-3700
From: Mr. Ali [mailto:alix0108@umn.edu]
Sent: Thursday, October 28, 2021 11:41 AM
To: Kevin Hansen; Sue Schmidtbauer; Kathy Young; Amada Marquez Simula
Subject: Stop Sign 4th and 47th, 4th and 48th.
Dear Madam Mayor, Kevin, Kathy & Sue,
22
Item 4.
2
I am a homeowner living on 4th street and in-between 47th and 46th ave.The reason for my email is that since
I bought my home here I have seen two accidents on 4th and 47th, one in 2019 and 2020 both in the
summertime. The last accident that occured flipped a truck on its side and knocked out a fire hydrant. That
street has NO stop signs on either side. Then there are NO stop signs on 4th and 46th, and I have seen drivers
speed through that intersection as if it were a highway. If you were to drive south from 48th ave on 4th street
you would not see a stop sign until you hit 45th Ave, and cars on this street are going well above 25 mph
knowing they have no stop signs on 47th ave and 46th ave. There are many people with children, such as
myself, and pets that walk on 4th street. Knowing and seeing people drive through those intersections and
seeing accidents occur on those streets without stop signs is getting a little unsettling!
What will it take for the City to place much needed stop signs on 47th and 46th aves on 4th Streets? I have
placed a map below to show where there are and there are no Stop signs on 4th st. Also there are stop signs on
5th St and 47th Ave and 5th St and 46th Ave! Since the last two accidents occurred on 4th St and 47th Ave
where there are no Stop Signs, I do honestly think those could have been avoided if a stop sign was present.
Lastly, I do understand that in the past some neighbors have tried to get a stop sign on the same locations as I
am trying to inquire about, but they were denied. My thought process is that since the last two accidents that
have occured on 4th St and 47th Ave where there are no stop signs and a fire hydrant was damaged and needed
to be repaired, the cost of getting a fire hydrant repaired MUST have been significantly higher than getting 4
stop signs and placing them on 4th St and 47th Ave and 4th St and 46th Ave.
Please let me know what it will take to get the City to act on this as this is a safety issue to me and my
neighbors.
Thank you
Shahzad Ali
23
Item 4.