During a recent government meeting, local resident Ashley raised significant safety concerns regarding the intersection at 104th and South Sunny Lane Road, particularly following the recent widening of South Sunny Lane. Ashley, who frequently travels through the area, reported an increase in traffic and a troubling pattern of drivers failing to stop at stop signs. She highlighted the proximity of the Museum of Osteology, which attracts approximately 65,000 visitors annually, contributing to the heightened traffic flow.
Ashley noted that there have been seven collisions at the intersection since 2021, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures. She advocated for the installation of a traffic signal to enhance safety for both local residents and museum visitors, especially given the regular influx of school buses and other groups traveling to and from the museum.
In response to these concerns, city staff confirmed that a traffic signal warrant analysis had been conducted, revealing that the intersection meets two of the nine criteria for signalization as outlined by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The analysis indicated that the intersection satisfies the requirements for both traffic volume and crash experience.
City staff recommended that any approval for a traffic signal should also include roadway widening to accommodate dedicated left turn lanes, ensuring safe turning movements for drivers. The commission unanimously approved the motion to install the traffic signal along with the necessary roadway improvements, marking a proactive step towards enhancing safety in the area.