Board backs recommendation to pursue dual-purpose LED radar flood-warning signs on Wildhorse Creek Road

The Board of Public Safety voted April 2 to recommend that city council approve purchase of two LED radar signs equipped with wired flood sensors for Wildhorse Creek Road. City staff said the signs serve two purposes: display vehicle speed under normal conditions and automatically flash a preprogrammed "ROAD CLOSED" or similar message when a flood sensor detects high water.

"So tonight, what we'd like to do is is move forward to get your tentative approval to move forward with the purchase of a flood warning system," Mr. Brown said in his presentation describing two sign locations—near Austin Fort Road (south end) and near Centaur Road (north end)—and confirming the sensor will be hardwired to the sign.

Staff said the signs would include a cellular modem for remote monitoring and data collection, be solar-powered with battery backup, and provide speed-data collection the department can use for enforcement or analysis. The department told the board the proposed vendor offered the most affordable solution the city found and that the equipment would be ordered after city council approval; installation would follow a signage review to ensure compliance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD/METCD references discussed in the meeting).

Board members discussed maintenance needs and life span of high-technology devices. Mr. Brown said the vendor provides a warranty but no long-term maintenance contract; battery replacement and routine upkeep would be a local responsibility. A board member moved to proceed with the department’s recommendation; the motion was seconded and carried. The board directed staff to bring the matter to city council for final approval and to finalize exact sign placements and any additional signage needed in the corridor.