Council approves Shaker Boulevard pedestrian improvements, including hybrid beacons

City staff presented a preferred design to address longstanding pedestrian-crossing concerns at Shaker Boulevard and Belvoir. The engineer recommended consolidating ADA ramps, improving pavement markings, constructing a pedestrian refuge for westbound traffic and installing pedestrian hybrid beacons on both approaches; staff said hybrid beacons operate only when activated by pedestrians.

Director Farrell told council five bids were received on May 1 and the lowest responsible bid was $411,738.13, under the engineer's estimate of $464,000. She said the State Highway Fund 202—sourced by motor-fuel taxes—may be used for Shaker Boulevard projects and public-works staff requested an increase to the 2026 appropriation to fund construction. Council discussed alternatives: staff said rapid-flashing beacons were less expensive but not the right safety option for a four-lane crossing and that a full traffic signal did not meet warrant criteria. "We look at safety; that's the last factor we're looking at — not price," a staff engineer said.

Council members praised staff work and noted residents had pressed for action; the measure passed unanimously under suspension and enactment.