City launches traffic study to seek DOT permission for lower-speed pedestrian devices on Memorial Drive

City staff told the council on Sept. 2 they have started a two-part traffic study on Memorial Drive to collect speed and volume data and to use that evidence when seeking permission from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to lower speed limits at targeted intersections.

Staff said their goal is to show lower prevailing speeds so the DOT will permit installation of rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs), which staff estimated would cost approximately $20,000to $30,000 per intersection. Staff said the DOT currently requires a HAWK (High-Intensity Activated crossWalK) system at locations where the speed limit exceeds about 40 mph on a divided highway; staff estimated a HAWK could cost up to roughly $90,000, though they said a firm vendor estimate was still outstanding.

The study’s first phase collects speeds in the 45 mph zone; the second phase will collect speeds in a 25 mph zone. Staff emphasized the analysis is intended to provide data for DOT permitting and that lowering the speed limit is not yet before the council. Staff also said previous informal conversations with DOT staff had suggested RRFBs would be acceptable but that DOT wrote in later permitting steps that a HAWK would be required at some intersections. No formal funding decision or permit had been made during the meeting.

Council members asked clarifying questions about the device differences, costs and whether the planned RRFBs would be permitted for the whole corridor; staff said the study is focused on the Madison Street intersection area and not the entire stretch of Memorial Drive.