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Council advances crosswalks and a new stop sign, defers solar radar speed signs pending grant search
Summary
Birchwood Village council directed staff to refine a speed-limit study, approved two crosswalks (one deferred until lift-station work is done), approved an amended stop sign at 368 Wildwood (4–1), and tabled a resolution to buy solar radar speed signs while seeking grant funding.
The Birchwood Village Council took several steps on Oct. 9 aimed at improving local traffic safety after hearing proposals from its roads subcommittee.
Council considered a citywide proposal to lower speeds to 20 mph. Council members and the city attorney cited Minnesota Stat. 169.14 (subd. 5(h)) and noted that the statute requires city-specific safety-engineering and traffic analysis, plus attention to national guidance and a public-communication plan. Resident Cara Henkins presented local speed studies and examples from nearby communities; the council directed the engineer and the roads subcommittee to assemble the remaining documentation before adopting any citywide 20-mph resolution.
The council voted to install two crosswalks on Wildwood Avenue (at Birch Beach and at Grotto). Members agreed the proposed crosswalk at Owl Street should wait until planned lift-station work is finished to avoid excavation conflicts.
Council also approved adding a stop sign at 368 Wildwood heading east, with an amendment to add signage clarifying that traffic from Lake Street does not stop; that measure passed 4–1. The council discussed yield controls and visibility on the approach from Lake Street and winter safety on steep grades.
On solar-powered radar speed signs, members raised concerns about costs and tree shading; the council tabled the item and asked staff to explore grant funding.
Councilors said they will return with engineer-prepared materials explaining crash history, measured speeds, and community outreach steps needed to meet statutory requirements before any citywide speed-limit change.
