The city will begin the process of removing traffic signals at two downtown intersections starting June 16, according to Hutchinson Public Works Director Cecil Weible.
Signals at Fourth Avenue and Washington Street, and at Avenue A and Washington Street are set for deactivation and eventual removal. The City has determined the lights are no longer warranted, and their removal will bring both safety and financial benefits.
The removal process began in May with 30 days of advance notice signage, then the signals will be bagged for a 60–90-day trial period. This will allow the city to reverse the changes if problems arise during the trial period.
In addressing the Hutchinson City Council on February 18, Weible said, “We have 74 active intersections year-round, with two more during the State Fair. Removing signals that are no longer needed will help reduce the chance of accidents by about 24 percent.”
In addition to improved safety, the city expects to save approximately $2,900.05 annually by eliminating the lights—$1,384.92 in electrical costs and $1,515.13 in maintenance expenses.
In addition to the annual costs, the city disclosed that the two intersections need upgrades. The cost per intersection to update the signals is $56,478.25 per intersection. The cost breakdown is:
1. Camera Detection Cost: $18,465
2. Battery Backup Cost: $5,078.57
3. Traffic Cabinet Cost: $10,037.65
4. Traffic Signal Controller Cost: $5,000.00
5. Traffic Signal Lights, Backplates, Brackets, Pedestrian Signals, Etc. Cost: $10,345.91
6. Lids & Manhole Rings Cost: $2,551.12
7. Traffic Signal Wiring Cost: $5,000.00
Although the traffic signals at Fourth Avenue and Walnut Street were also under consideration for removal, they will remain in place due to visibility concerns.