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City plans temporary flashing beacon at 6th Avenue near library; longer‑term options on CIP
Summary
Staff proposed installing a temporary rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) at the 6th Avenue crossing near the library and ice loop this winter, with future options including a HAWK signal or raised island; most hardware is in stock and new solar/battery components are being ordered.
City staff presented a short‑term pedestrian‑safety fix for the busy crossing of 6th Avenue near 11th Street, a location that has seen increased foot traffic connected to the ice loop and nearby library.
Mike (public works/traffic) told council the plan is to install a rectangular rapid flashing beacon (RRFB) immediately as a temporary measure; staff have surplus RRFB units and expect to order a new solar panel and battery to have the system operational in December. He said the RRFB is intended as a near‑term solution while a potential future HAWK signal or raised island is evaluated and budgeted through the CIP.
Council members asked about sidewalks and student traffic patterns from Vernon Middle School and whether the RRFB would be used by students or ignored. Staff noted there is not yet a sidewalk on one side of the street, which complicates routing, and stressed the short‑term measure is meant to give another safe option where people are already crossing. Staff reported the incremental cost for battery/solar components as "about $9" in the meeting exchange, noting most other equipment was in inventory.
Staff said static crossing signs will also be added at adjacent locations and asked schools to help communicate the new crossing to students. The item was informational; funds for the short‑term installation will come from traffic‑signal fund lines and staff will return if a larger capital project (HAWK or island) is proposed.
