Title
Consider adoption of an ordinance, amending section 12.12.010 of the Monterey County Code to revise the speed limits and segment limits of two sections on Carmel Valley Road in the Carmel Valley area, in the unincorporated area of the County of Monterey.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Adopt an ordinance amending Section 12.12.010 of the Monterey County Code to revise the speed limits and segment limits of two sections on Carmel Valley Road in the Carmel Valley area, in the unincorporated area of the County of Monterey.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
On September 16, 2014, the Board introduced, waived the reading, and set today's date and time to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Section 12.12.010 of the Monterey County Code to revise the speed limits and segment limits of two sections on Carmel Valley Road in the Carmel Valley area, in the unincorporated area of the County of Monterey.
The County has received a public request to review speed limits on Carmel Valley Road between Laureles Grade and Pilot Road. Staff has completed an Engineering and Traffic Survey (E&TS), including measuring the prevailing speeds, conducting a sight visit and, reviewing collision records. Based on these surveys, staff recommends that the following speed limits be established: 1) 45 m.p.h., from a point 3,000 feet westerly of its intersection with Laureles Grade east to a point 700 feet west of its intersection with Phelps Way (previously 50 m.p.h.); and 2) 40 m.p.h. from a point 700 feet west of its intersection with Phelps Way east to a point 300 feet west of its intersection with Pilot Road (previously 35 m.p.h.).
The California Vehicle Code establishes the methodology for increasing and decreasing speed limits. In order for a speed limit to be enforceable by radar, it must have a current E&TS that supports the posted speed limit. The E&TS looks at the prevailing speed of traffic and conditions not readily apparent to the driver to establish the recommended speed limit. In addition, the E&TS has to be updated every five years.
If adopted, this action will protect and promote the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Monterey County by establishing consistent speed limits and allow the California Highway Patrol to enforce these speed limits.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of the County Counsel has reviewed and approved the ordinance as to form. The California Highway Patrol concurs with this recommendation. The Carmel Valley Road Committee has reviewed this proposal and no action was taken.
FINANCING:
There is no financial impact to the General Fund. Traffic control devices are paid from the Road Fund. The cost to install the necessary signing is estimated at $800.00. There are sufficient appropriations available in the Road Fund (Fund 002, Unit 8195) to finance this work.
Prepared by: Ryan Chapman, Traffic Engineer, (831) 796-3009
Approved by:
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Robert K. Murdoch, P.E., Director of Public Works
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Benny J. Young, RMA Director
September 19, 2014
Attachments: Ordinance; Location Map; Proposed Speed Reductions (Attachments on file with the Clerk of the Board)
Cc: Shawne Ellerbee, RMA Finance Manager