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Council declines immediate redesign of Clark traffic circle, directs study of lower-cost speed calming
Summary
After reviewing engineering data, council supported adding a permanent four-way stop at Clark and Del Sol and voted unanimously not to spend city funds now on redesigning the Clark traffic circle; staff were asked to explore rumble strips and other lower-cost measures and to proceed cautiously given right-of-way limits.
The City Council reviewed engineering findings for Clark Street and the Del Sol intersection and directed staff not to pursue additional city-funded redesign of the nearby traffic circle at this time.
Engineering material shown to the council rated the Clark and Del Sol intersection as approaching a problematic level of service; staff said eastbound traffic already scored a D in 2021 and that growth projections could push performance to an F by 2040. Staff also noted 25 accidents in that intersection since 2022. The presentation said the Clark/Del Sol intersection warrants a four-way stop for safety and traffic flow; staff said that change is not being voted on tonight but will be brought forward with appropriate controls.
The traffic circle adjacent to the intersection generated lengthy council comment. Staff presented a roundabout-style design but cautioned that major redesign would likely require additional right-of-way and significant construction costs. An engineering study to examine alternatives was estimated at roughly $15,000–$20,000; construction costs were unknown and would depend on design and land acquisition.
Councilor Jan Vigil moved that the city not spend funds on redesigning the Clark traffic circle at this time and instead explore lower-cost measures such as rumble strips and flashing signage to calm traffic. The motion passed unanimously. Staff said they would investigate rumble strips and other low-cost calming measures while maintaining that the existing traffic circle meets current safety and service standards.
