Purpose of the Special Meeting is to discuss the Intersection Improvement Study Implementation Plan

City Manager Fred Enderle gave a brief explanation of the Intersection Improvement Study.

City Planner Chris Schmiesing introduced Nathan Moore of Kleingers & Associates, the plan developer.

Mr. Schmiesing stated the team members included the City Planner, City Engineer, Chief of Police, Fire Chief, Street Superintendent, Assistant Street Superintendent, Traffic Signal Technician, and a representative from the Electric System.

Mr. Schmiesing provided a general overview power point presentation on the recommendations that were made, and the evaluation of the twenty-seven intersections within the city. The Engineering Study included: Evaluation of Intersections, Collection of Data, Public Input/Awareness Meetings, Analysis of Findings, and Recommendations.

There was discussion of the procedures that were to be followed in notifying the public of the changes that were going to occur with the removal of some of the traffic signals, and replacing them with stop signs or no signs. Mr. Schmiesing passed around copies of various types of signage to be used for the Commissioners to review.

Mr. Schmiesing stated there would be a phase in period with signage and flashing lights to make citizens aware of the changes taking place. City Engineer Amy Havenar stated typically there is a ninety-day period to help increase public awareness of the changes being made at the intersections, and during this time there will be increased Police presence in these areas.

Mr. Schmiesing went over the funding of the plan, and there was discussion on who would be contributing to the plan. There would be In-Kind Resources and Contractual Costs associated with the plan, along with anticipated State/Federal Funding, and an Annual Operations Cost Savings of over $18,000 per year with full pay back of the implementation plan within 9.22 years. City Manager Enderle stated out of the City of Piqua's portion some of the funding will come from the Power Fund, and the rest from the Street Department Fund.

Mr. Schmiesing explained the Prioritization process and how it was established. There will be Public Awareness Campaign on the What, Why, How, When presented at the Neighborhood Association Meetings, Organizational Meetings, YMCA, Mainstreet Piqua, Etc., and other public forums, including Press Releases/News Media, and APTA programs, said Mr. Schmiesing. City Manager Enderle further stated the plan is to talk to the neighbors, and look at safety standards that apply today before implementing the plan.
There was discussion of several busy intersection locations and questions by Commissioners, and the time frame on the completion of the plan. Mr. Schmiesing went over the anticipated changes in 2010 and 2011, and stated this plan is subject to change but is scheduled for completion in 2011. This may be extended out into 2012 based upon funding availability, public safety protocol, seasonal conditions and other factors. There was discussion if it would be possible to have an article in the newspaper to inform citizens on the process that will be followed in making the changes to the intersections.

Commissioner Fess stated Chris Schmiesing, Amy Havenar and the team did a good job on putting together the information, and in a few years the traffic flow through the city will be greatly improved.

Nathan Moore of Kleingers & Associates stated he felt the City of Piqua should be commended for putting forth the effort and going with the plan.

Mayor Hudson thanked everyone for attending the meeting.

Moved by Commissioner Fess, seconded by Commissioner Martin, to adjourn from the Piqua City Commission Work Session at 5:35 P.M. Voice vote, Aye: Martin, Fess, Hudson and Vogt.

Motion carried unanimously.

______________________________
THOMAS D. HUDSON, MAYOR

PASSED: ________________________

ATTEST: _________________________
REBECCA J. COOL
CLERK OF COMMISSION