Denton County approves traffic signal at Robeson Ranch intersection, declines interim all-way stop

Denton County Commissioners Court voted unanimously to approve installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of Robeson Ranch Road and Ed Robeson/Cleveland Gibbs Road in Precinct 4 and rejected installing interim all-way stop signs, following a public hearing that drew residents and municipal officials citing safety concerns.

County staff told the court the city of Denton has warranted a signal at the intersection and that interim multi-way stop signs are a commonly used short-term measure under the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). "Where traffic control signals are justified, the multi-way stop is an interim measure," staff said during the hearing. Staff also said a state statute requires the court to hold a public hearing before adopting traffic regulations under that subchapter (referenced in the hearing as "02/1959").

The court heard about visibility, vehicle speeds and recent crashes from residents. "There's 3 or 4 accidents in the last 6 weeks at the main gate," said Jay Vandenbree, who asked the court to move quickly. Resident Ethan Bidney urged the court to address the posted speed and the fact that drivers frequently exceed it: "The intersection is not visible until [you] come over the ridge — it's an invitation for disaster." Darryl Williams said the 50 mph posted limit is widely exceeded and warned that a new signal alone could create a "false sense of security."

Northlake Mayor Brian Montini and Northlake Mayor Pro Tem Meryl Lorentz said they supported a signal but cautioned that an all-way stop would create disproportionate delay for east-west traffic and urged a more holistic review of lane configuration and enforcement. "This traffic signal is certainly warranted, and we fully support your efforts," Montini said, while adding that a center turn lane and protected turning movements will be needed.

A resident who said commercial trucks must use the inside lane to make a right turn urged engineers to provide a rounded right-turn treatment so large vehicles can safely make the movement. Will Baresi, the project consultant with BGE, said preliminary designs include widening to the north, maintaining two through lanes and adding dedicated protected left-turn bays; he told the court plans should be wrapped up by July and then submitted to the city of Denton for letting and construction.

Court members asked about timing and were told the city has signal equipment available, that utility and pavement work remains to be resolved and that installation is expected in under six months. Staff also said flashing stop signs and message boards had been ordered and could be used to notify motorists while work proceeds.

The court opened the public hearing on a motion by Commissioner Evans, seconded by Commissioner Mitchell. After public comment and staff responses, Commissioner Edmonson moved to proceed with the signal installation but not to install the interim stop signs; Commissioner Mitchell seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Court members and staff said they will pursue supplemental measures including advance warning signage, possible speed radar feedback signs and coordination with the city of Denton on enforcement and lane design. The consultant said the project will include pavement widening and dedicated turning lanes to address queueing and turning-vehicle conflicts.

The court record shows the action is limited to approving the signal installation and declining the interim stop sign measure; any further modifications to lanes, speeds or enforcement will require separate review or future actions by the county or city.