Bridge staff outlines enforcement limits, U-turn increases and signage plan to reduce incidents
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Summary
Bridge staff reported a recent increase in U-turns at Columbia Bridge, said Laredo Police will not issue citations for U-turns, and described enforcement and communications options including tiered penalties, account suspension and new signage; staff will provide an analysis with recommendations.
Bridge staff told the committee on Nov. 17 that U-turn incidents have risen at the Columbia crossing and explained enforcement and operational options the city is analyzing.
Staff said law enforcement (Sergeant Victor Vicarelli) advised officers cannot issue citations specifically for U-turns. "His response was no. They cannot give out any type of citations when a U-turn is done," staff reported.
The bridge report gave counts and revenue figures: combined U-turns for World Trade and Columbia were reported as 127 for the month, with an increase in Columbia from 12 to 19 U-turns (staff provided a breakdown by account). Staff said fund fees collected increased slightly month over month (from $15,212.50 to $16,003).
To reduce U-turns and unpaid balances, staff proposed a mix of options to present to management: tiered penalties (first, second, third offense), suspension or termination of accounts, and improved signage and public education via a marketing campaign and LED/gantry messaging. Staff also said the current toll vendor study will incorporate operational improvements such as pre-queue balance indicators and account auto-replenishment features when the RFP/scope is prepared.
Staff will provide a detailed analysis and recommendations to management and return to the committee with options. No enforcement policy changes were adopted at the meeting.