HUTCHINSON, Kan. — City of Hutchinson Public Works Director Brian Clennan will bring a traffic calming policy to the Hutchinson City Council at their meeting on Tuesday.
According to agenda documents, the Engineering Department receives numerous requests and complaints each year regarding traffic issues, particularly concerning speed and volume on residential streets.
Addressing these issues helps improve the livability and vitality of our neighborhoods. To evaluate and determine the necessity for traffic calming measures, JEO Consultants, in collaboration with city staff, has developed a comprehensive Traffic Calming Policy.
Implementing a traffic calming study is estimated to cost approximately $50,000, while the costs for implementing the measures are projected at around $150,000. It's important to note that these costs may vary depending on the size and scope of the traffic calming area.
Clennan and the consultants suggest three possible ways of funding the work.
1. Allocate $200,000 to a Traffic Calming CIP Reserve: This would create a reserve to address traffic issues as they arise. Note that CIP reserve funding would be evaluated annually based on usage.
2. Require the development of a benefit district: This option would involve residents petitioning for the project and agreeing to fund the cost of the study and the implementation of the traffic calming measures.
3. Develop a cost-sharing model between the City and benefit district.
City staff is seeking input and guidance on the proposed Traffic Calming Policy and funding strategies to help finalize the approach to effectively addressing these traffic issues.
The Hutchinson City Council meets Tuesday at 9 a.m. at City Hall.
CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.