City proposes traffic solutions to combat dangerous congestion

During a recent government meeting, officials addressed ongoing traffic concerns on 81st Avenue, particularly between McNabb Road and Bailey Road. The discussion highlighted the need for improved traffic management in the area, which is heavily utilized by parents dropping off and picking up students from local schools, including Pinewood Elementary and North Broward Academy of Excellence.

To alleviate congestion and enhance safety, the city is proposing the installation of a traffic diverter on Southwest 17th Street. This diverter, designed as a raised concrete diamond platform with white poles, aims to prevent eastbound vehicles from making left turns, which currently contribute to traffic backups and accidents. Additionally, a new traffic signal is proposed near 19th Street, which would facilitate safer left turns for residents exiting the Burnham Woods neighborhood.

The city plans to allocate $55,888 to Chen Moore Associates for the development of construction drawings and to petition Broward County Traffic Engineering for approval of both the diverter and the traffic signal. The proposed traffic light is within the county's regulations, being approximately 910 feet from the nearest existing signal.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the potential need for additional funding, with a contingency of $15,000 requested only if the county requires further modifications. The meeting concluded with a consensus to initially pursue the project through staff channels before escalating to county representatives if necessary.

Overall, the proposed measures aim to enhance traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents in a busy area, reflecting the city's commitment to public safety and efficient transportation management.