HomeMy WebLinkAboutWS 2024-04-15 Item 2B - Update - Neighborhood Traffic Calming ProgramTO:
FROM:
BY:
CC:
DATE:
SUBJECT:
ISSUE
Introduce the
City of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
City Council
Hari Ponnekanti, Public Works Director
Cyndy Knighton, Senior Program Manager — Transportation
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
April 12, 2024
Update on the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program and update Council on the current status.
BACKGROUND
In 2005, staff developed a Traffic Calming program that was presented to the Transportation
Committee for approval. Using that early program, two pilot projects were done to test out the
interest of the residents and that eventually generated high interest from the residents and
elected officials. Late 2018, the Council approved Resolution 1955, adopting the current
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP).
The NTCP was developed to be an equitable, repeatable program that would be prioritized
based on data and available funding. While not explicitly included, past Councils have
encouraged geographic equity as well as demographic. Additionally, the program was designed
to ease implementation, with minimum hurdles, for the lowest level of treatment types. The
program includes two levels of treatment approaches. Level I improvements are passive traffic
control treatments that can be implemented quickly and inexpensively and are often all that is
needed to address neighborhood complaints. Level II treatments are physical devices, often
permanently installed, which require more extensive design efforts and are costlier. Additionally,
Level II treatments require coordination with emergency services and approval from the Council.
Emergency services are included as Level II devices as they can negatively impact response
times.
Requests for treatment consideration can come to staff using just about any avenue. The City's
website has an NTCP page with a form to fill out. Emails directly to staff can be added into the
overall list of requests. It's common that elected officials hear directly from residents and pass
along their concerns, which are then added. There are around 100 requests on the NTCP list at
this time.
DISCUSSION
Funding for the program was first provided in the 2019 budget year in the Capital Improvement
Plan under Traffic Calming/Residential Safety Improvements, Project No. 80010301. During
2019 and into the first quarter of 2020, multiple requests had calming and safety treatments
installed. The budget was eliminated after the first quarter of 2020 due to cutbacks associated
with the Covid-19 pandemic. Late 2021, American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds were used
to restore funding for the NTCP and staff presented a list of Top-10 Recommended NTCP
projects that would be the primary focus for the program. In 2022, the Project Manager position
that managed the NTCP was vacated due to retirement and the position was filled with a new
person. Unfortunately, the new employee chose to return to his previous employer after just 5
months, and the position has been vacant ever since. The City is currently trying to fill this
position at this time. Other staff have continued to work on the NTCP as available.
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/council agenda items/public works/ntcp intro & update/a. info memo - ntcp introduction & update 4-15-
24.docx
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
The Top-10 list does not follow the steps outlined in the NTCP but was rather developed as a
plan to address needs given the challenging economic conditions and have a plan that was
approved for ARPA fund expenditure. In December 2023, staff provided an update on the NTCP
to the Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee. All of the projects identified in the
Top-10 list have either been completed or are underway at this time.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Continued funding after the ARPA funding expires at the end of 2024 will be needed to continue
this program. Funding a staff position to manage the NTCP is also necessary to return to levels
provided prior to the 2020 pandemic.
RECOMMENDATION
Information Only.
ATTACHMENTS
• Resolution 1955: Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
• 2019 — Q1 2020 NTCP Accomplishments
• December 2023 TISC NTCP Update
https://tukwilawa.sharepoint.com/sites/mayorsoffice/cc/Council Agenda Items/Public Works/NTCP Intro & Update/a. INFO MEMO - NTCP Introduction & Update
4-15-24.docx
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City of Tukwila
Washington
Resolution No. G�
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, ADOPTING THE "CITY OF TUKWILA
NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC CALMING PROGRAM."
WHEREAS, one of the top concerns of Tukwila community members is speeding and other
dangers associated with motor vehicles; and
WHEREAS, the City of Tukwila desires to reduce the negative effects of motor vehicle use,
alter driver behavior, and improve conditions for non -motorized street users; and
WHEREAS, the adopted Tukwila Comprehensive Plan recommends implementation of a
neighborhood traffic calming program in both the Transportation Element and the Residential
Neighborhoods Element; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to document a transparent, predictable and equitable
process for implementing effective traffic calming measures in neighborhoods throughout the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON,
HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
The "City of Tukwila Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program," as evidenced in Exhibit A, is
adopted.
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUKWILA, WASHINGTON, at a
Special Meeting thereof this f (1tJ day of e) C 0 n, h4 /' , 2018.
ATTEST/AUTHENTICATED:
Christy O'F1at erty, MMC, City
APPROVED AS TO FORM BY:
L-4q,„j v--)"
Rachel B. Turpin, City'Attorney
Verna ell Coun it President
Filed with the City Clerk: ID— 5
Passed by the City Council: ) jT , r
Resolution Number: j G UCS
Attachment: Exhibit A — City of Tukwila Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
W:\Word Processing\Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program 11-30-18
LH:bjs
Page 1 of 1
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CITY OF TUKWILA
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC
CALMING PROGRAM
Adopted December 10, 2018
By Resolution No. 1955
95
Table of Contents
OBJECTIVES 1
PROCESS STEPS 1
INITIATING A REQUEST 1
PRELIMINARY EVALUATION 2
SOLUTION ALTERNATIVES 2
No Action 3
Level I 3
Level II 3
PROCESS FOR QUALIFYING FOR LEVEL II TREATMENTS 3
PLAN DEVELOPMENT 4
PROJECT FUNDING 4
PROJECT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION 5
EVALUATION 5
RE -ENROLLMENT 5
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A: DEFINITIONS OF TYPES OF STREETS
APPENDIX B: PRIORITY RANKING WORKSHEET
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Introduction
Traffic conditions on residential streets greatly affect neighborhood livability. Speeding and
unnecessary through -traffic in neighborhoods create safety hazards on residential streets. The City
of Tukwila Public Works Department has developed a Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
(NTCP) to guide City staff and inform residents about the procedures for implementing traffic
calming on residential streets and collector streets.
The NTCP is designed for local residential streets and collector arterials only. The NTCP does
not apply to local or arterial streets in commercial areas or to streets classified as principal or minor
arterials.
As defined by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), traffic calming is the application of
measures which can be taken which reduces the negative effects of motor vehicle use, alters driver
behavior and improves conditions for non -motorized street users. The City's NTCP outlines a
process for staff and residents to carry out a traffic calming program. It provides a way to
objectively prioritize traffic calming requests. These procedures incorporate prioritization,
planning, evaluation, implementation, and maintenance of the traffic -calming devices in
residential areas. It also combines the four E's — Education, Engineering, Enforcement and
Emergency Services.
Obiectives
The primary goal of the City's NTCP is to improve the livability of the local streets and residential
collectors. The City has identified the following objectives:
• Provide alternative solutions to reduce vehicular speeds and accidents on residential streets.
• Endorse safe and pleasant conditions for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and residents of
neighborhood streets.
• Provide a means for a collaborative working relationship between City staff and
neighborhood residents in development of traffic calming measures.
• Discourage use of residential streets for cut -through vehicular traffic.
Process Steps
Initiating a Request
Request for traffic calming assistance can come from a resident's association or from concerned
individuals. Requests can be made in writing by clearly stating the problem and location,
accompanied with completed application which is provided by the City. The request can be made
by either mailing or emailing the request to the Public Works Department. The request must
include a contact name, address, phone number and email.
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97
Staff will then acknowledge the completed application in writing to the resident's association or
to the contact person listed in the application. An application fee could be implemented in the
future to offset some of the costs involved.
Preliminary Evaluation
Each street in the community is a part of the larger roadway network that connects residents to
each other, work, schools, goods, services and the countless destinations to which drivers and
pedestrians travel daily. Common issues within neighborhoods include speeding, traffic volumes,
and the utilization of neighborhood streets as a cut -through route, among others. In order to ensure
that traffic calming concerns are addressed in an equitable manner, staff must assess the situation
by reviewing the request and determining if the area qualifies for treatment using set criteria. The
primary purpose of a preliminary evaluation is to determine whether the speeding or accident
situation is significant enough to warrant further study. At this stage, staff collects data to analyze
it to determine whether:
• The roadway is eligible for traffic calming treatment.
o Only residential streets classified as collector arterial or local access are eligible.
• City recorded data supports the problem identified in the application.
o Speeding: Traffic counts are taken to determine if 15% of the motorists travel at 5
mph or more above the posted speed limit This is also referred to as the 85th
percentile speed being at or above 5 mph over the speed limit.
o Volume: Traffic counts also collect the number of daily vehicles on a street. This
information is used to determine the best type of solution and is used to rank project
priorities.
o Traffic Accidents: The number of accidents for over a three-year period is collected
and studied.
The Public Works Director has the discretion to move an application forward or to address any
safety issues discovered outside of the NTCP process.
If the analysis confirms that a traffic problem exists based upon the above criteria, the Public
Works Department will conduct a traffic calming study as explained in the following sections and
staff calculates the priority score for the street segment using the Priority Worksheet in Appendix
C.
A written response back to the contact person with the findings of the preliminary evaluation is
generally provided within 60 calendar days of the request.
Solution Alternatives
The solution alternatives are defined into three levels.
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No Action
After data collection and analysis is complete, any location not meeting the above criteria will be
determined to not be eligible for any NTCP assistance. Staff will inform the applicant in writing
that their request does not meet the City criteria for action and the request will be closed.
Level I
The first level improvement for traffic calming that should be considered are passive traffic control
treatments, known as Level I. Level I improvements are less restrictive measures, and do not
require a vote of the affected residents. The improvements used in Level I include: trimming
bushes to allow better sight distance; pavement markings and striping; increased police
enforcement; traffic speed display signs; neighborhood awareness campaigns; and education. This
reduces the need for installing physical devices on every local street.
If a marked crosswalk is recommended for installation where ADA-compliant ramps do not
currently exist, the improvement will be automatically treated as a Level II solution.
Level II
Level II improvements should be considered only after Level I treatments have been in place for
a minimum of 6 months and data collection and analysis indicate the problem(s) has not been
resolved, or as determined by the Public Works Director. Level II improvements focus on physical
devices such as speed cushions, traffic circles, and chicanes to calm traffic. These solution
alternatives are much costlier than Level I and are generally permanent. Therefore, a more detailed
evaluation is required and approval by key depai liiients and impacted area residents is required
before the implementation. The detailed evaluation includes as follows:
• The speed, volume and accident history collected during the preliminary evaluation.
• Collect new traffic speed and volume data and accident history for the past three
consecutive years.
• Other factors such as proximity to schools, parks and other pedestrian generators, lack of
sidewalks, accessibility, presence of bicycle facilities, and other roadway characteristics.
• Identify users of the affected streets.
• Identify traffic and major pedestrian generators, such as schools, parks and shopping
centers.
• Analyze street use with respect to street classification.
• Document any other relative factors.
Process for Qualifying for Level II Treatments
If the traffic problem(s) has not resolved with Level I treatments, an impact area is established by
staff after identifying users of the affected street(s), identifying major traffic generators such as
schools and parks, analyzing the actual street use with respect to roadway classification, and any
other relative factors. The impact area includes the location requesting treatment as well as other
streets in the immediate area that could be impacted by Level II treatment installation.
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Plan Development
Once an area has been selected for a traffic -calming project, steps need to be taken to determine
solutions. The applications are prioritized based on the scores. The highest-ranking applications
will be given priority in moving forward into Plan Development, as funding allows.
Since Level I solutions are simpler in scope, the solution formulation process can usually be
handled by staff. Public meetings are not usually required, although some type of public
communication is beneficial and recommended.
Level II improvements require a more comprehensive plan development due to the higher cost and
impact of the actions taken. A public meeting with all affected residents may be held, as
determined by the Public Works Director. The initial public meeting will:
• Discuss the steps to develop a traffic -calming plan.
• Gather additional information regarding traffic problems and related neighborhood needs.
A ballot may be provided to each resident, either in person or via the postal service, to vote to
indicate support of the NTCP plan. The implementation plan must receive at least 2/3 approval of
all residents on the impacted street in order to proceed. In addition to the community support, the
approval of the following public officials is required:
• City Police and Fire Departments
• City Council
Once the necessary level of support is documented, projects may be funded and constructed
according to their prioritization and as available staffing and budget permits.
In cases where a Level II request does not receive sufficient support, the project is dropped from
the list and the next highest ranked project can go through the same process. Residents in an area
where a project has been dropped are able to resubmit their request for the following program year.
Project Funding
The number of traffic -calming projects undertaken each year depends on the City's budget and
staffing availability. The City Council's Transportation & Infrastructure (or successor) Committee
will be kept apprised on projects both proposed and selected on a regular basis, and the City
Council will be notified of the NTCP's progress and expenditures at least every six months.
In some cases, landscaping, maintenance and necessary easement dedication may be the
responsibility of the residents or the homeowner's association. If this is the case, an agreement
must be signed between the City and residents before the project is implemented.
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Project Design and Construction
Once traffic -calming treatments have been determined, the City's staff or a consultant develops
the detailed plan, based on the study and the residents' input. The traffic calming device will be
installed.
In some situations, a test installation may be warranted to assure that the device is both effective
and truly desired by the community. In this case, within three to twelve months after installation,
staff evaluates how well the test installation performed in terms of the defined problems.
Evaluation
An evaluation shall be conducted between six months to one year after the implementation of any
permanent traffic calming devices. Speed, volume and collision data is collected and compared
with the data collected before the installation of the traffic -calming device. The data collection
should be done at approximately the same time of year as the original data collection.
Re -enrollment
If additional traffic calming treatments become necessary in the future due to changes in traffic
patterns unrelated to the NTCP treatments, requests can be made for a new enrollment 12 months
or more after the last evaluation period has been completed. The submission will be treated as a
new request beginning with preliminary evaluation and will follow the NTCP process. Any future
traffic calming treatments will be scored and ranked along with all other active requests and are
subject to funding and staffing availability.
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Appendices
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Appendix A: Definitions of types of streets
The City's Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan defines the street functional
classifications. For the sake of this program, only residential local streets and collector arterials
are eligible for NTCP treatments. Streets in commercial areas or which are classified as principal
or minor arterials are not eligible for treatments under this program. Traffic calming on principal
and minor arterials is very different than on residential streets, requiring substantial design,
permitting, environmental approval, and budget in order to construct. These calming projects are
developed into standalone capital improvement projects.
Local streets (typical speed limit 25 mph) serve local circulation needs for motor vehicles,
bicycles, and pedestrian traffic and provide access to residences and some businesses. Local
streets are not intended to carry significant volumes of through traffic. Sixty to 80 percent of
the roadway network is considered local streets.
Collector arterials (typical speed limit 30-35 mph) are typically streets that provide access
between local service streets or from local streets to thorough -fares. Collectors often carry
some through traffic. Collectors in residential areas are eligible for NTCP treatments whereas
collectors in commercial areas are not. Five to 10 percent of the roadway network is classified
as collector arterials.
Minor arterials (typical speed limit 30-40 mph) are streets which are typically wider and
may have more lanes than collectors which connect the smaller arterial streets to destinations
or to the regional roadway network. Minor arterials carry a large percentage of through traffic
as well as traffic from the local area. Ten to 20 percent of the streets in network are minor
arterials.
Principal arterials (typical speed limit 35-50 mph) are major streets and highways that
provide regional connections between major destinations. Speeds are higher, access and
traffic control favors providing fast and smooth movement on the arterial over the lower
classified streets. Five to 10 percent of a roadway network is classified as principal arterials.
103
LEGEND
Roadway Classification
Freeway
Principal
Minor
• Collector
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ROADWAY CLASSIFICATION
Appendix B: Priority Ranking Worksheet
Location:
Date:
Staff Name:
Cate ' or
Accidents:
Five points for each recorded accident over the past three years. Three
additional points will be added for each accident with a recorded injury.
Data
Score
Volume:
Average weekday traffic volume divided by 100, rounded up to the
nearest whole number. Maximum of 7 points possible.
Speed:
Five points for every mph greater than 5mph above the posted speed or
(85th percentile speed - posted speed limit - 5) x 5 points.
Sidewalks:
Five points if there is not a continuous sidewalk on one side of
residential streets or both sides of collectors.
Pedestrian Generators:
Five points for every K-12 school on and 2 points for school property
within 500 ft of the subject street. Three points for other major
pedestrian generator on the subject street. Major pedestrian generators
may include parks, community centers, senior housing, or other uses
with significant pedestrian traffic.
Total Points:
105
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2019 NTCP Accomplishments
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019
Location Safety issue(s)
Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacons
Requester
Cost Status Level Complete?
•
TIB at S.141st St
Pedestrian crossing safety
Abu-Bakr
$263,000
Installed two RRFB crossings, radar sign southbound
2
✓
5/19/2019
S.144th St at 46th Ave S
School Crossing safety
TSD
$18,000
RRFB is installed, 2 radar signs installed
2
✓
5/1/2018
S.144th St at 37th Ave S
Crossing safety/marked xing
Tuk-Works
$20,000
RRFB designed/installed Completed
2
✓
9/1/2019
65th Ave S at Southcenter Blvd
Pedestrian crossing safety
Staff/Historical
TBD
Design drafted
2
✓
62nd Ave S at Southcenter Blvd
Pedestrian crossing safety
Tuk-Works
TBD
Design drafted
2
✓
S.150th St at Thorndyke Elementary
School Crossing/marked xing
Staff/Historical
n/a
Completed 2019 by TSD
2
✓
9/1/2019
LED Enhanced Stop Signs -e
58th Ave S at S.144th St
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,000
1 sign installed for EB 144th at 58th/design for 4-way
1
✓
5/19/2019
37th Ave S at S.137th St
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$6,000
3 signs installed
1
✓
7/1/2019
37th Ave S at S.140th St
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$8,000
4 signs installed
1
✓
7/1/2019
53rd Ave S at S.170th St
Speeding, stop sign request
Tuk-Works
$2,000
1 sign eastbound
1
✓
1/1/2020
S.133rd St at 32nd Ave S
4 way stop safety
Tuk-Works
$4,000
2 signed installed for east and west
1
✓
9/1/2019
S.135th St at 32nd Ave S
4 way stop safety
Tuk-Works
$4,000
2 signed installed for east and west
1
✓
9/1/2019
S.147th at 57th Ave S
4 way stop safety
Legacy
$2,000
reviewed/converted 3-way to all -way stop
1
✓
10/1/2019
Military Rd at S.133rd
Failure to obey stop sign
Seatac
$2,000
1 sign installed for WB
1
✓
9/1/2019
S.170th at 53rd
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,000
1 sign installed for WB
1
✓
2/1/2020
S.144th at 56th Ave S
Failure to obey stop sign
Staff/Historical
$4,000
2 signed installed for east and west
1
✓
2/1/2020
Driver Speed Feedback Signs
S.148th St at 4400 blk *
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed
1
✓
7/1/2019
Macadam Rd S at 13700 blk
Speeding/school bus stop safety
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed
1
✓
8/1/2019
S.164th St at 4700 blk
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed
1
✓
7/1/2019
42nd Ave S at 11900 blk
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed
1
✓
4/1/2019
S.140th St at 3500 blk
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed
1
✓
8/1/2019
S.130th St at 37th Ave S
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$6,000
2 Radar signs installed.
1
✓
3/1/2019
Speed Cushions
53rd Ave S at S 140th
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$12,000
4 speed cushions installed
2
✓
9/1/2019
S.148th St at 4400 blk *
Speeding
Tuk-Works
TBD
1 speed cushion installed, 1 under consideration
2
✓(partial)
School Zones
S.148th St (Impact Charter Schools) School Zone safety
Impact school
$23,591
Completed- new flashers, marked crossing, curbing
2
✓
9/1/2019
S.144th St at 44th PI S School Crossing safety/xing
Miscellaneous
Tuk-Works
TBD
Design reviewed/not recommended
TBD
x
62nd at City Hall
Pedestrian crossing safety
Tuk-Works
$0
Marked and signed crossing completed
1
✓
10/1/2019
53rd/52nd Trafffic circulation revision
Pedestrian/Bicycle safety
Staff/Historical
$15,000
Design completed/construction in 2020
2
✓
12/1/2019
65th, Scblvd and 62nd
Safety lighting
Tuk-Works
$26,127
Installed new and replaced old lighting with LED
1
✓
10/1/2019
42nd Av S at S.140th
Sight distance/Safety
Tuk-Works
$0
Installed parking prohibitions near SE corner
1
✓
10/1/2019
44th Ave S at 11800 blk
Speeding
Tuk-Works
$0
Speeding not confirmed. No action taken
1
x
7/1/2019
2020 NTCP 1st Qtr Report
January 1, 2020 - March 31, 2020
Location Safety issue(s) Requester Cost Status Level Complete?
NTCP Design Contract
S.150th St at 46th Raised Crosswalk
School Crossing/marked xing
Staff/Historical
n/a
Design completed/construction with 2020 Overlay
2
✓
3/31/2020
New ADA ramp at Impact charter Sch
Non -compliant ramp in school zone
Staff/Historical
n/a
Design completed/construction with 2020 Overlay
ADA
✓
3/31/2020
53rd/52nd/137th traffic revision
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
n/a
Design completed/construction with 2020 Overlay
2
✓
3/31/2020
New Stop sign 44th/S.140th
Failure to yield ROW
Staff/Historical
n/a
Design completed/construction with 2020 Overlay
1
✓
3/31/2020
54th Ave S Additional Gaurdrail
Narrow road, drop off
Staff/Historical
n/a
Design completed/construction with 2020 Overlay
2
✓
3/31/2020
$15,600
LED Enhanced Stop Signs I
51st at S.160th NB
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,250
1 sign installed for NB
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.160th at 51st EB
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,250
1 sign installed for EB
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.160th at 42nd WB
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,250
1 sign installed for WB
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.170th at 53rd EB
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$2,250
1 sign installed for EB
1
✓
3/31/2020
40th Ave S at EMW NB
Failure to obey stop sign
Tuk-Works
$4,500
2 signs installed for NB
1
✓
3/31/2020
$13,500
Crosswalk Safety Flags installed i
61st at Tukwila Parkway
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
4634 Southcenter Blvd
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
144th Crosswalks at SHAG
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$400
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
144th at 37th RRFB
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.148th school crossing
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.150th/42nd Signal
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$800
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
S.146th at 46th RRFB
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
Interurban at S.149th RRFB
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$200
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
Gateway Drive at BECU
Pedestrain safety
Staff/Historical
$400
Completed
1
✓
3/31/2020
$3,000
Miscellaneous Expenditures by Shops '
Year to date
$32,100
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Public Works Department - Hari Ponnekanti, Director/City Engineer
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee
FROM: Hari Ponnekanti, Public Works Director/City Engineer
BY: Cyndy Knighton, Senior Program Manager
CC: Mayor Ekberg
DATE: December 1, 2023
SUBJECT: Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
Project No. 82310301
Year End Report
ISSUE
Update the Council on the achievements of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program for 2023.
BACKGROUND
Ever since 2021, when ARPA funding was made available to the City, and specifically the
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, staff, and our consultant, KPG-Psomas, has been mostly
focusing on the Top-10 Recommended NTCP Projects list developed in late 2021. The 2021
priority was to purchase normal stock items used in traffic calming, such as LED street signs,
speed feedback signs, and Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) units. In 2022, staff and
KPG focused efforts in Allentown, the TCC, three elementary schools, S Ryan Way, and the S
144th S/46th Avenue S intersection.
DISCUSSION
Building on the work completed in 2022, staff and KPG have continued building on the work
completed in 2022 and have begun additional work on the rest of the Top-10 list. Staffing changes
have reduced the amount of time available to work on the NTCP, but work has continued
addressing every project on the Top-10 list. Some study will carry into 2024 to complete the
planning and engineering; however, the construction of the new raised crosswalk and RRFB on
42nd Ave S at the S 119th Street Pedestrian Bridge is expected to be fully complete and operational
this year. When all the study efforts are complete, staff will discuss the findings with the Council
and will prioritize which projects move into construction in 2024 and beyond. Grants are not readily
available for traffic calming projects, except for the Transportation Improvement Board's Complete
Street program. A new call for projects under that program is expected in late spring, and staff
will apply for funding.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
Information only.
ATTACHMENTS
• Staff Top-10 Recommended NTCP Projects
• Top-10 Locations Map
109
Status Update for the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program — December 2023
A. Allentown Neighborhood
• Completed study.
• Submitted two grant applications to fund safety, traffic calming, and pedestrian improvements.
• Completed memo for the closure of the 42nd Avenue S bridge over the Duwamish River.
• Constructed raised crosswalk with RRFB on 42nd Avenue S at 119th Street pedestrian bridge.
B. and D. Tukwila Elementary School and Cascade Elementary School
• Collected transportation count and speed data.
• Met with representatives from the two schools to understand their issues and needs.
• Developed draft set of improvements for both schools.
• In 2024, we will share draft improvements with schools and finalize improvements.
C. Impact Charter School Safety Improvements
• Collected transportation count and speed data.
• ADA and signage design for 148th Street completed in 2022.
• In 2024, we will meet with school representatives and develop improvements.
E. Tukwila Community Center Pedestrian Crossing Safety Improvements
• Project completed. RRFBs installed on 124th Street at 44th Avenue and at 46th Avenue.
F. Macadam Road S Speed and Safety Improvements
• Collected transportation count and speed data.
• Developing list of safety and traffic calming improvements.
G. Southcenter Boulevard/65th Avenue S Pedestrian Safety Improvements
• Completed preliminary design and submitted TIB grant application in 2023.
H. Citywide Residential Speed Limit Review
• Reviewed state and City of Tukwila laws related to citywide speed limits.
• Reviewed case studies for cities that have reduced local street speed limit to 20 mph.
• Documented findings in a draft memo.
• In 2024, we will evaluate select arterials for potential speed limit reductions.
I. S Ryan Way Pedestrian Safety Improvements
• Preliminary design complete.
• In 2024, City will pursue grant funding for improvements.
J. S 144th Street/46th Avenue S ADA Ramps
• Improvements constructed in 2022.
110
Staff Top-10 Recommended NTCP Projects
Modified 6/03/2022
Original Cost Updated Cost Updated Cost
Project Details Potential Treatment Options Status
Estimate Range Estimate Range
A Allentown Neighborhood
Speed and Safety Study
Since 2018, five individual requests for traffic calming have been recorded in the NTCP list of requests; additional traffic
complaints have been made to the City over prior years. Addressing traffic safety concerns in Allentown is a top priority for
the City.
• Draft Transportation Safety Study
completed.
• Conducted public outreach
meetings on 3/22/22 and 4/26/22.
•Submitted WSDOT Pedestrian and
Bicycle Program Grant application
in 5/2022.
• New traffic counts are being done
to evaluate improvements.
$50,000-80,000
$20k for study
$640k for CN of
study
recommendations
$680,000
Study neighborhood -wide volume, speed, classification and
safety issues. Identify and design Level 1 and Level 2
treatments throughout Allentown.
Level 1: Improved signage; radar feedback signs; pavement
marking modifications.
Level 2: Sidewalks; curb extensions; raised crosswalk; traffic
calming; and remove the eastbound right -turn slip lane and
reconfigure the S 124th Street/50th Place S intersection.
B Tukwila Elementary School
Safety Improvements
Since 2018, 12 traffic calming requests have been made in the Tukwila Hill neighborhood, with a significant number near
Tukwila Elementary School. Common complaints have been about speeding and crosswalk or pedestrian safety.
Additionally, the Council has asked for proactively addressing or anticipating concerns, specifically around school zones.
Some improvements have been made around Tukwila Elementary School already but more improvements are needed.
• Transportation Safety Study
initiated 5/2022.
• Collecting transportation counts
and speed data before the end of
the school year.
• Improvements are expected to be
installed in 2023.
$30,000-80,000
TBD
$30,000-80,000
Address pedestrian mobility, crosswalk safety concerns,
speeding, sight distance, and upgrade School Zone signage.
Level 1: School Zone beacons; improved signage; radar
feedback signs; pavement marking modifications.
Level 2: Curb extensions; RRFB installation; ADA ramp
upgrades; improved illumination.
C Impact Charter School Safety
Improvements
A request specific to the newly opened Impact Charter School was received in 2019. The request was to provide a signed
school zone, which Tukwila has provided signs marking school crossings on S 148th Street. ADA-compliant ramps have not
been installed at the marked school crossings. The charter school has expanded their site to the north which requires
creating a school zone on S 146th Street and other potential improvements for children's safety. Additionally, the Council
has asked for proactively addressing or anticipating concerns, specifically around school zones.
• Transportation Safety Study
initiated 5/2022.
• Collecting transportation counts
and speed data before the end of
the school year.
• Proposed private development
may provide ADA ramp
improvement on S 146th Street.
$8,000-15,000
TBD
$8,000-15,000
Provide school crossing improvements, establish school zone
on S 146th Street, if needed. Provide school crossing
improvements, observe operating speeds, if necessary
establish speed zone.
Level 1: Improved signage for school zones on S 148th Street
and S 146th Street; crosswalk installations.
Level 2: ADA ramp improvements; RRFB installations; curb
extensions.
D Cascade View Elementary
School Safety Improvements
Since 2018, the Cascade View neighborhood has seen 9 requests for traffic calming. Four of the requests were about
speeding, school crossing and pedestrian safety at locations around the Cascade View Elementary School. 85th Percentile
speeds of "30MPH have been recorded, but analysis is needed to identify if speeding occurs during the 20MPH-active school
zone period. Additionally, the Council has asked for proactively addressing or anticipating concerns, specifically around
school zones.
• Transportation Safety Study
initiated 5/2022.
• Collecting transportation counts
and speed data before the end of
the school year.
• Improvements are expected to be
installed in 2023.
$8,000-15,000
TBD
$8,000-15,000
Upgrade School Zone signing, design and install pedestrian
crossing improvements.
Level 1: Improved signage for school zones on S 148th Street
and S 146th Street; crosswalk installation.
Level 2: ADA ramp improvements; curb extensions;
enhanced crosswalk treatments.
E Tukwila Community Center
Pedestrian Crossing Safety
Improvements
The City Council has expressed desire for the NTCP to have a proactive element in addressing traffic calming and safety
needs throughout the City. The TCC is a well -utilized facility by the Allentown neighborhood as well as the entire City and
surrounding area. Concerns over the pedestrian crossings on S 124th Street have been raised by staff and residents in the
past, along with the larger complaints of speeding in Allentown. Increasing pedestrian visibility to improve safety in this high-
use area is a recommended top priority for the NTCP.
• Design completed for RRFBs, curb
extensions and ADA ramps at 44th
Avenue S and 46th Avenue S.
• Installation scheduled for summer
2022.
$80,000-100,000
$15k PE
$47k RRFB units
$78k RRFB
Installation
$110,000.00
Install pedestrian safety improvements on
S 124th Street at 44th Avenue S and 46th Avenue S.
Level 1: Improve pedestrian crossing signage.
Level 2: RRFB installations; upgrade ADA ramps; curb
extensions; improved illumination.
Staff Top-10 Recommended NTCP Projects
Modified 11/28/2023
Original Cost Updated Cost Updated Cost
Project Details Potential Treatment Options Status
Estimate Range Estimate Range
F Macadam Road Speed and
Safety Improvements
At least five requests for traffic calming, specific to speeding (and some secondary reasons) have been made since 2018. A
radar feedback sign was placed near the 13700 block in 2019 but requests have continued to be made. Additional analysis is
warranted to determine what other improvements could be used to address the speeding, especially where Macadam Road
has extremely limited sight distance due to the curvy nature of the roadway.
• Design to begin in 2/3Q.
$10,000 - 30,000
TBD
$10,000 - 30,000
Design and install treatments addressing speeding and curve
safety north of S 144th Street.
Level 1: Improved signage; LED chevron signs; channelization
modifications.
Level 2:
G Southcenter Boulevard/65th
Avenue S Pedestrian Safety
Improvements
Staff identified the need for improvement pedestrian safety at this location several years ago. Southcenter Boulevard is a 5-
lane roadway with known speeding issues along with curves that restrict sight distance. A high pedestrian usage at this
intersection accessing the King County Metro bus stop that services both the Rapid Ride F-Line and Route 150, both
workhorses of the south County transit network, justifies improving pedestrian crossing safety. This intersection is slated for
full signalization in the future, but interim pedestrian safety improvements should be considered sooner.
• Funding available for design of full
signal in 2022 CIP.
• Design to begin in 2022.
• Will consider signage
improvements for interim in 2/3Q.
$50,000-$90,000
TBD
$50,000-$90,000
Design and install pedestrian safety improvements
Level 1: Improved signage for pedestrian crossing
Level 2: RRFB installation; ADA ramp upgrades; improved
illumination
H City-wide Residential Speed
Limit Review
As part of the City Council's expressed desire to proactively look at traffic calming needs, a full review of the residential
street posted speed limits is recommended by staff. State law establishes city speed limits at 25MPH unless an engineering
study is completed to justify higher speed limits. Most residential streets are posted at 25MPH today, but there are many
that are posted at 30MPH or 35MPH. Likely, those speed limits are legacies of past annexation areas, where a speed study
was completed by King County. The general impression Staff has is that most residents and elected officials would be
happier with lower speed limits. City of Seattle has also recently lowered all speed limits nearly city-wide to be 25MPH.
• Not started yet.
$5,000-8,000
TBD
$5,000-8,000
Identify residential streets with speed limits currently above
25MPH. Conduct volume, speed and safety review.
Recommend changes to speed limits, as necessary.
Level 1: Modify speed limit ordinance; as needed; install new
signs; as needed.
Level 2:
I S Ryan Way Pedestrian Safety
Improvements
Two requests for traffic calming to address speeding and pedestrian crossing safety in the Ryan Hill area have been made in
2021. New developments are coming forward that will increase the residential population of this part of the City with multi-
family developments. The speed concerns, especially along S Ryan Way, coupled with the new housing developments
increasing the likelihood of increased pedestrian activity, warrants this analysis be recommended as a top priority.
• Transportation Safety Study for
improved signage and safety
improvements may begin in 2/3Q.
• Construction of improvements
possible in 2023.
$10,000-100,000
TBD
$10,000-100,000
Safety study on S Ryan Way from MLK Jr. Way to east city
limits, focusing on speeding and pedestrian safety.
Recommend Level 1 and Level 2 improvements. Design and
construct improvements.
Level 1: Improved signage.
Level 2: Curb extension, improved illumination.
J S 144th Street/46th Avenue S
ADA Ramps
The Tukwila School District requested school crossing safety improvements at this intersection in 2017. A new Rectangular
Rapid Flashing Beacon was installed in 2019. At the time the RRFB was installed, the City was also submitting a grant
application for the 46th Avenue S Safe Routes to School project, which would improve pedestrian safety between this
intersection south to S 150th Street, and would include either a raised pedestrian crosswalk at the RRFB or install ADA-
compliant curb ramps. The grant was not awarded. State law requires ADA ramps be brought up to current standards
anytime a new signal, including the RRFB, is installed. Since grant monies for the larger improvement are not expected in the
short term, staff recommends this as a priority to comply with all state and federal laws regarding ADA requirements.
• Design at 50% with construction
to be done with the 2022 Annual
Overlay Project.
$15,000-20,000
$15k PE
$90k Construction
$105,000
Design and install ADA-compliant ramps at the intersection.
Level 1:
Level 2: ADA upgrades to ramps at RRFB (not done at time of
RRFB installation due to budget constraints).
■ Total $266,000-$538,000
$808,000
$1,016,000 -
$1,233,000
S 152nd St o-I-e
S 52nd PI f
m
Wig Blvd Corporate
C porate
Minkler BI¢dr
Upland Dr
City of
Tukwila
S
Not to Scale
Vicinity Map
8 King County
—
Disclaimer:
The location of features and boundaries
are approximate and are intended for
reference only. Data is based on best
information available.
U:\PW Eng\GIS General Maps\Streets_11 x17_Sept2018.mxd
Date: 09/09/18 By: R. Linsao
13