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Planning Commission Meeting
Minutes
May 17, 2011
The monthly meeting of the New Britain Borough Planning Commission was called to order by Chairman David Holewinski. All commission members were present, except Mr. Karl Dieterichs, Dr. Paul Land, Ms. Lynn Bush and Ms. Robin Trymbiski. Mr. David Donahue motioned to approve the minutes of the March 15, 2011 meeting as written; seconded by Mr. Rick Eggleston and approved.
New Business: None
Old Business:
Keeley Avenue Traffic Calming – Mr. Jeff L’Amoreaux, Traffic Engineer of L’Amoreaux Engineering, commissioned by New Britain Borough, presented an overview of the traffic calming issue. Mr. L’Amoreaux suggested the use of portable speed cushions for Keeley Avenue. Speed cushions are rectangular in shape, seven feet by six feet, no higher than three and half inches, marked with yellow strip or patches, with a cost of $750 each (vs. cost of $2,500 each for permanent speed humps). They would be placed in each lane of travel parallel to each other allowing for vehicles to travel over with one tire down and one tire up. Cushions are adhered to pavement using a nail gun and come in manageable sections for ease of removal and replacement throughout the Borough. During winter months, it is advised to remove the cushions as plowing the roads has potential for destruction of speed cushions. The height is designed to allow emergency vehicles (with the exception of police vehicles) to pass over at a quick rate without damage. Mr. L’Amoreaux explained vehicle noise produced by placing speed cushions is strictly dependent on suspension of individual vehicles and not the speed cushion itself. Penn Dot currently does not have a position on speed cushions.
Mr. L’Amoreaux suggested specific locations of speed cushions near street lights between 242 and 230 Keeley Avenue, between 145 and 154 Keeley Avenue, and on Sioux at incline. The Commission agreed with Keeley Avenue placements but was not convinced on Sioux placement.
Other traffic calming plans were discussed; specifically, gateway treatment described as a textured concrete stamping near the covered bridge which would break drivers from “auto pilot” and produce rumbling of vehicle on roadway as they approach the speed hump. Mr. Tom Yatsky will obtain quote from Top and Bond and Mr. L’Amoreaux will obtain quote from Flint Trading Street Print. A planter along the roadway on either side of the road, narrowing the road was suggested and dismissed, as trucks cannot avoid the bridge for deliveries and planters would be damaged. Collapsible cones and reflectors were suggested along with the gateway treatment vs. speed humps. Mr. L’Amoreaux to obtain quotes on collapsible cones/reflectors. A mini roundabout was discussed briefly and dismissed.
Mr. L’Amoreaux raised the issue of signage along Keeley Avenue, particularly at the Covered Bridge. Poor visibility was raised by the Commission and discussed several options including signage on either side being the same, being yield signs. Suggestion of “reinforced” yield sign on Borough side and stop sign on Township side with the replacement of words from “opposing vehicles do not have to stop” to “stop for oncoming traffic.” The purpose would be to remove the right of empowerment from the Borough side. Possibility of realigning roadway on township side twenty feet by five feet would address the visibility issue; however, is a township decision. Mr. Hintenlang to research cost involved. A traffic signal was discussed with an over-height detector turning the light red. Mr. L’Amoreaux to obtain estimate of cost for traffic light.
The next step will be to obtain all quotes as mentioned above and for Mr. L’Amoreaux to prepare a draft report with sufficient detail, including new signage plan, for the next Planning Meeting.
Mr. Rick Eggleston motioned to adjourn; seconded by Mr. David Donahue and the meeting ended at 8:36 PM.
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