Council orders traffic action near high school after safety debate; stop sign trial planned

Councilmembers raised safety concerns about the intersection on Second South near the high school and recreation/park facilities during the Sept. 8 meeting. Residents and councilmembers said pedestrians — including students and park users — face frequent high speeds and unsafe crossings at the intersection near the rec center.

Public works staff (Scott) presented a traffic study that recommended against installing a four-way stop, saying the traffic warrants did not meet the standards for a 4-way stop under standard traffic-engineering criteria. Staff noted other options, including moving stop control, striping a new crosswalk, adding interactive radar speed signs that display vehicle speeds and collect data (approximately $5,000 per sign), or a roundabout (not feasible at the location).

Several councilmembers expressed that, regardless of the engineering warrant, the intersection posed an immediate safety risk to children during school arrival and dismissal. They asked staff to implement near-term measures, and the council directed staff to place a four-way stop at the Second South intersection as a trial, add crosswalk striping, and coordinate targeted police enforcement during school hours. Councilmembers said enforcement during lunch and after school should be prioritized.

Public-works staff agreed to put the traffic study and proposed measures in the council's Dropbox for review and to add the stop-sign item to the next council agenda. Staff said they would also explore interactive speed-sign options, striping, and deployment of police resources. Councilmembers emphasized rapid action to reduce the risk of crashes or pedestrian injuries.