Title
Resolution to Install Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) on Fuller Road at the Crosswalk at Huron High School and the Entrance to Gallup Park ($50,000.00)
Body
Whereas, City Council has established “Safe Systems for Auto, Pedestrian and Bike Users” as a Council budget priority and both the City and Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) have identified the need for pedestrian safety improvements at Huron High School;
Whereas, City Council approved funding for improvements to the pedestrian crosswalk on Huron Parkway North of Geddes at Huron High School in March 2016 and the improvements were installed prior to the start of the 2016-17 school year;
Whereas, City Council approved funding for installation of streetlights at the Fuller Road crosswalk at Huron High School and the entrance to Gallup Park in November 2016 and the new streetlights were installed in December;
Whereas, The Ann Arbor Police Department announced in January 2017 that from 7AM to 8:30AM and from 2:30PM to 4PM on school days the speed limit on sections of Fuller Road and Huron Parkway near the school would be reduced to 25 mph from 40 mph and the new signs have been installed;
Whereas, City Staff recently completed the review directed by City Council of pedestrian safety at all Ann Arbor schools and the prioritized recommendations include installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) on Fuller Road at the crosswalk at Huron High School and the entrance to Gallup Park;
Whereas, A2SafeTransport, a citizen group dedicated to improving pedestrian safety at Ann Arbor schools has conducted a separate review and has communicated to the City that an installation of an RRFB at this location is needed;
Whereas, while City Council recognizes there are other school-related pedestrian safety improvements that are needed and will be considered in the development of the FY18 budget and FY19 financial plan, City Council believes the installation of an RRFB at this location is a clear priority need that should be addressed expeditiously; and
Whereas, City Staff estimate the cost to purchase and install the RRFB at no more than $50,000.00;
RESOLVED, that City Council directs the City Administrator to purchase and install an a crossing beacon such as an RRFB, HAWK, or Red Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon on Fuller Road at the Crosswalk at Huron High School and the entrance to Gallup Park as soon as possible and practical; and
RESOLVED, That City Council approves $50,000.00 for this purpose with funding from either the Alternative Transportation Fund balance, the General Fund balance, the Street, Bridge and Sidewalk Millage, or the Washtenaw County Millage, at the City Administrator’s discretion.
Sponsored by: Councilmembers Lumm, Eaton, Westphal and Smith
As Amended by Ann Arbor City Council on February 21, 2017