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Webster Groves traffic advisory commission to create crosswalk request form, outline cost tiers and queueing
Summary
Commission members agreed to draft a standardized application (a ‘cut sheet’) to triage crosswalk requests, collect objective metrics (lane count, speed, proximity to destinations), and set public expectations about funding and timing.
The Webster Groves Traffic Advisory Commission discussed a new standardized request form and an initial triage process to evaluate community petitions for crosswalks and other pedestrian measures.
Commission members agreed to develop a questionnaire or “cut sheet” applicants would complete when requesting a crosswalk. The proposed form would capture readily available facts — street name, number of lanes, posted speed limit, proximate destinations (schools, parks), and whether sidewalks exist — and would allow staff to use existing databases or quick measurements to flag requests that are unlikely to meet engineering thresholds.
Commission discussion focused on three aims: (1) reduce staff time spent collecting routine site data by asking applicants to supply basic information; (2) attach objective metrics such as average daily traffic (ADT) and proximity to schools to help triage requests; and (3) set expectations up front by describing likely cost tiers for different crosswalk treatments so applicants understand funding and timing constraints. Members discussed examples of crosswalk types and relative costs — paint-only markings, speed humps/traffic calming, and more complex interventions with flashing beacons or full signalization — and said those cost examples should be included on outreach materials.
Members also emphasized the need to coordinate with Public Works and police for any required traffic counts or engineering warrants. The commission proposed a triage workflow: the commission compiles the cut sheet, staff or the police department supply technical data (ADT, sight lines, crash history as available), and Public Works performs any formal engineering warrant or feasibility study. If a request meets technical and budgetary criteria it can be queued for funding; if it does not meet warrants the commission will notify the requester with an explanation.
Commissioners agreed to take the draft application forward and refine it before the next meeting. They also discussed outreach logistics for a planned series of three community events this summer/fall on complete‑streets concepts, and recommended using city newsletters and social channels, local media calendars and the city’s “Notify Me” mailing lists to publicize events and the new request process.
No formal policy or binding funding commitments were made at the meeting; members described the proposal as an advisory screening tool to make future Public Works evaluations and budget decisions more efficient.
