Ordinance to amend Title 9 Traffic, Chapter 9.88 Speed Regulations and setting a Public Hearing for June 10, 2019, by amending Section 9.88.080 Schedule of posted streets, related to Lincoln Avenue from Gleason Avenue to East Pierce.

Public Works has been working with CBPD regarding complaints about vehicles speeding on Lincoln Avenue.

Over many years CBPD has issued a large number of speeding tickets on Lincoln Avenue, however the strict enforcement has not been a deterrent to speeding.

A traffic study was conducted in 2018 by the traffic division to analyze traffic patterns on Lincoln Avenue.  The traffic study confirmed that vehicles are exceeding the speed limit.  Approximately 90% of vehicles exceed the speed limit of 25 mph.

The basis for an engineering review of vehicle speeds assumes that the majority of drivers will drive at a safe and reasonable speed based on the characteristics of the roadway.  The 85^th percentile speed is assumed to be the maximum safe speed.  The 15^th percentile speed is assumed to be the minimum safe speed.  This methodology is commonly used in determining speed limits.

For Lincoln Avenue, the 85^th percentile speed (the speed at which 85% of the vehicles do not exceed) is 35 mph. 

Crash history for Lincoln Avenue was also reviewed.  Even with a large number of vehicles exceeding the posted speed limit, the crash information suggests that the road is relatively safe.

Based on the outcomes of the traffic study and after discussions with the neighborhood residents, the staff recommendation is to increase the speed limit from 25 mph to 30 mph between Gleason Avenue and East Pierce Street.

The speed limit on Lincoln Avenue between Franklin Avenue and Gleason Avenue will remain 25 mph due to the terrain, narrow roadway, and visibility.

Approval of the ordinance change.