City launches major safety upgrade for dangerous intersection

During a recent city council meeting, Edie Jimenez, the engineering project manager, presented a significant traffic safety project aimed at improving the intersection of Main Street and Sultana Avenue. This initiative, designated as city project number 7159, has been prioritized due to a notable increase in traffic incidents at the location.

To fund the project, the city successfully secured a Highway Safety Improvements Program (HSIP) grant, which requires a thorough data analysis demonstrating the need for safety enhancements based on crash statistics and other performance measures. The proposed improvements include the installation of a safety light to regulate turning movements, the addition of crosswalks and curbs to facilitate pedestrian access, the designation of a turning lane, and minor utility adjustments.

Jimenez outlined that the project is set to commence in the fall of 2024 and is expected to be completed by March 2025. The city has already initiated the bidding process for contractors and is in the process of hiring a project management firm to oversee inspections and ensure compliance with federal regulations.

This project aligns with the city's capital improvement goals, focusing on critical infrastructure needs and enhancing safety through targeted interventions. The council expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to significantly improve safety for both pedestrians and drivers in the area.