County signs on to WFRC road safety audit for 2550 South; local match estimated at $5k–$6k

Weber County staff on Aug. 25 asked the Board of Commissioners to authorize participation and signature on an agreement with the Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC) to perform a road safety audit (RSA) of selected corridors, including 2550 South. Ashley (last name not provided in the transcript) described the WFRC program and said the audit would include a field review and safety analysis that considers drivers, transit users, cyclists, pedestrians and people with disabilities. "The RSA for each corridor will include a detailed field review and safety analysis by the consultant in cooperation with the local government addressing the needs for all roadway users," Ashley said. Why it matters: County staff said 2550 South is in design and that RSA findings could inform current and future phases of the project; although phase 1 construction is scheduled for next year, staff said audit results would be useful for phase 2 design if timing prevented changes to phase 1. Cost and timing: Staff said WFRC requires a 20% local match; because some original partner projects dropped off the program, Weber County’s approximate share was estimated at $5,000–$6,000. WFRC staff indicated the audits would begin Oct. 1 and run through June of the following year. Discussion and outcome: Commissioners asked about expected deliverables and whether the study could be expedited; staff said audits typically include recommendations, benefits, and cost estimates and that field work generally takes a few days. County commissioners expressed support for active-transportation planning and safer corridor design. The commission approved participation and asked staff to finalize agreement signatures. A formal agenda placement for the signature was requested and staff said they would present the agreement for signature at the appropriate meeting.