INFORMATION #3 09-05-2006
City of Elk River Item Number
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
INFORMATION I September 5, 2006 Jeffrey A Beahen
Item Description Reviewed by
Informational memo on Downtown Traffic Omtrol
Introduction
The downtown project continues, and the Police Department has been staffing the traffic control
points for several weeks now. For many reasons, the traffic flow has been wonderful, and the
temporary traffic control officers are no longer needed.
Discussion
The truck traffic in and out of the construction sites has been pretty much managing itself. The
contractors have obeyed the staging plan, have been flagging and directing many of their own
vehicles, and have adapted gates to better service their truck and delivery traffic. As a result, the
temporary traffic control officers have had very little to do. One resigned earlier this week to
accept other employment. The second agreed to work through this Friday (9-1-06) and then be
on call as needed.
The reopening of Main Street has worked very well, although traffic flow is down 70-80%
compared to last year. I suspect many people have discovered alternative routes and downtown is
at least at this time, not the pass through route during peak periods. Regardless, even if traffic
picks up again, the construction flow is not going to interfere with traffic.
I commend the contractors for their part in making this area passable and free from interference.
Financial Impact
We will save almost $9,000 in projected wages. The equipment issued will be returned except for
footwear, and reissued to either CSO's or Reserve Officers.
Attachments
None
Action Requested
Information only, no action needed.
Council Action
Motion by
Second by
Vote
Follow Up
S:\Council\Police\Downtown Update.doc