Claimant says unmarked curb bump-out damaged car; committee recommends denial, calls for attention to markings
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Summary
Marcia Ferguson told committee a curb bump-out without visible markings damaged her vehicle; she asked for compensation and warned the design and snow cover create safety risks. City staff said signage is not always required under the uniform traffic control manual and that crews had not been aware of any missing sign; committee recommended denial and urged claimants to pursue insurance remedies.
Marcia Ferguson told the Judiciary and Legislation Committee on Dec. 8 that an unmarked curb bump-out on West State Street near N. 54th St. damaged her vehicle last October and that the city's decision to install and not consistently mark bump-outs creates safety risks for drivers. Ferguson described driving westbound into the sun and not seeing lane or curb markings; her estimate sought roughly $1,845 in repair costs and she asked for at least her $500 deductible back.
City electrical services and sign-shop staff said many bump-outs have markings and that the uniform manual on traffic control devices (the MUTCD/uniform manual) governs whether specific signage is required; they said records did not show prior notice of a missing sign at the site. Committee members pressed whether the city has a consistent marking standard and noted the safety and equity consequences of new traffic-calming features covered by snow. One committee member encouraged claimants to use their auto insurance to pursue reimbursement where applicable; the committee moved denial and referred the matter to the full council.
The exchange highlighted tension between city traffic-calming measures and drivers’ visibility concerns, especially in winter conditions. Committee members asked staff to consider marking and notice protocols for future bump-outs.