MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The City of Hutchinson is giving motorists advance notice that traffic signal changes will begin Aug. 11 at three city intersections as part of an effort to improve safety, reduce maintenance costs and eliminate outdated infrastructure.
The affected intersections are:
- 23rd Avenue and Tyler Street
- Bigger Street and Maple Street
- 11th Avenue and Baker Street
According to the city, the first phase of the project will begin Aug. 11 when traffic signal heads at each intersection are covered, or "bagged," to deactivate the signals. The city said it will provide additional information before the transition outlining the new traffic patterns and traffic control measures that will be implemented at each location.
The deactivated signals will remain in place for at least 90 days while city staff monitor traffic operations and safety. The signal poles are scheduled to be removed in late November.
City officials said a recent traffic engineering study determined the signals are no longer warranted based on current traffic volumes, safety considerations and national traffic engineering standards. Instead, the intersections will be controlled by alternative traffic control devices, including stop signs where appropriate.
The city said removing unnecessary traffic signals can improve traffic flow by reducing delays and driver frustration while also decreasing the potential for rear-end crashes often associated with signalized intersections carrying lower traffic volumes.
The project is also expected to generate cost savings. Each intersection currently costs an estimated $1,500 annually to operate and maintain, including about $800 in electricity costs and $700 in maintenance expenses.
In addition, the city said removing the signals avoids an estimated $56,478 in infrastructure replacement costs at each intersection. Those avoided expenses include replacing traffic detection equipment, battery backup systems, signal cabinets, controllers, signal heads, pedestrian signals, wiring and other components that would otherwise be required because of the aging infrastructure.
During the 90-day evaluation period, city staff will monitor the intersections to ensure the new traffic control measures operate safely and effectively before the signal equipment is permanently removed.
The City of Hutchinson said it appreciates motorists' patience and cooperation as the traffic control changes are implemented.