Columbus Consolidated Government

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TO: Mayor and Councilors

Date: 12/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

TO: Mayor and Councilors

Date: 12/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

Created:

11/29/2012 2:14:00 PM

THRU: Isaiah Hugley, City Manager

FROM: Donna W. Newman, Director of Engineering

Subject: St. Mary's Road/ Northstar Drive

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There has been a history of complaints from residents concerning the

intersection of St. Mary's Road and Northstar Drive. A traffic signal warrant

study was done in February 2007 in which it was determined the intersection did

not warrant a signal. After continual complaints, the Department of

Engineering began evaluating alternatives for improvements at the

intersection. The preferred solution was construction of a roundabout. This

is the national standard as an alternative to traffic signals and is being

utilized at many existing and proposed locations in Columbus, the State of

Georgia and throughout the Country. The City has 11 installed to date and 1

under construction. There are 5 others planned, including this location,

throughout the City. A local engineering firm has been engaged to develop

concepts for the proposed roundabout at this location. Staff has been working

with the Engineer and Georgia Power over the last year to determine the best

layout and minimize conflicts with utilities which would add cost to the

project.

New traffic counts were obtained late in September 2012 and a new signal

analysis performed. The intersection still did not meet warrants for

installation of a traffic signal. In fact, traffic had decreased from 2007 to

2012. It is assumed this is due to the exit being constructed for the Bunker

Hill/Lexington Hill area onto Old Cusseta Road.

A public meeting was held at St.Paul A.M.E. Church located at the intersection

on November 8, 2012. There were over 41 residents, 3 Staff members, City

Manager Isaiah Hugley and Councilor Bruce Huff present for the meeting. It was

explained at the meeting that the intersection did not warrant a signal and the

roundabout provides a safer more efficient method of control. It would allow

continual flow of traffic especially during non-peak hours and reduce the

number of accidents. The Church expressed concerns with the impact to their

signage and timing of the construction of the project due to them hosting a

conference next year. A commitment was made to work with them on the

relocation of the sign during the design process and the timing of the

construction.

Unless otherwise directed, the Department of Engineering Staff is moving

forward with the design and construction of the roundabout.