Consider Stop Sign Request for 145th Lane and Tungsten Way

The attached petition was received June 25th 2012 from residents in the Chestnut Hill 4th Addition near the intersection of 145th lane and Tungsten Way. The purpose of the petition is to request a 4 way stop at the above intersection. Staff has reviewed the intersection and offers the the following information as background in considering this request.
The City of Ramsey follows the guide lines for stop sign installations provided in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)
Warrants for Stop Sign

Because the STOP sign causes a substantial inconvenience to motorists, it should only be used when warranted.  A stop sign may be warranted at an intersection where one or more of the following  conditions exist:

1. Intersection of less important road with a main road, where the application of the normal right-of-way rule is unduly hazardous

2.Street entering a through highway or street

3. Unsignalized intersection in a signalized area.
 
4. Other intersections where a combination of high speed, restricted view, and serious accident record indicates a need for control by the STOP sign.

Accident History

1 accident involving 2 cars, minor damage, and no injuries 1/15/2009

Traffic
Traffic counts were taken for two 24 hour periods, starting July 16th and ending July 18th.  Traffic counts are taken in this manner to determine a 24 hour average.

Street                 Leg       Daily Traffic      Peak Hour
145th Ln             East        310                      31
145th Ln             West       324                      32
Tungsten Way    North       87                         9
Tungsten Way    South      162                      16
Intersection Avg                441                      44

Notification has been sent to residents who's name appeared on the petition.

Sight Distance

There is an adequate sight distance when traveling north or south on Tungsten Way. Traveling east or west on 145th Lane presents some minor problems. Tungsten Way is at a higher elevation than 145th Ln. which is more noticeable when traveling east on 145th Ln. Motorists can see the intersection clearly they just can't see through the intersection until they are approximately 85 feet from the intersection. This elevation change does make visibility somewhat difficult when traveling east to west through the intersection. The speed limit on both streets is 30 mph.  The distance between controlled intersections on 145th Ln is approximately 1950 ft or .37 miles.

Traffic Engineering 
General Fund Budget
Cost Center 0260
Approximate cost-$800.00

Because of the limited sight distance, caused by the grade differential at the intersection, staff recommends the installation of a 4-way stop at 145th Lane and Tungsten Way.

Motion to accept staff recommendation to install 4 way stop at 145th Lane / Tungsten Way
Motion to reject staff recommendation and choose an alternative based on committee discussion