Ord-2019-010 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

approaches the intersection. Cost and liability issues relating to manual traffic controls should also be investigated. Another option would be to increase the number of approach lanes at this intersection. For instance, the underpass road could be widened to one left turn lane, and one shared left- turn/right-turn lane. This would necessitate widening SR-906 south of Exit 53 for some distance . This may be possible within the existing pavement width . During snow conditions, pavement markings would not be seen, and so either overhead signage or manual traffic control would be needed to keep traffic flowing. 4) Improvements at Exits 53 and 54 As discussed under the model paragraph, there may be some operational problems at these two exits. The primary issue is traffic queuing on the off-ramps and spilling back onto the freeway. This also creates safety problems on 1-90. There are several possible measures for alleviating this problem. Each has issues associated with it. Install traffic signals at the westbound off-ramps of Exits 53 and 54 . The signal might increase delay and queues for ramp traffic. The signals also might not work well under snow/ice conditions (the signal detectors don't work well when covered in snow). The community may not feel comfortable installing signals, since they seem out of place in the rural/resort setting of the Pass. Finally, signals cost upwards of $150,000 to install, and must be maintained. One positive note: signals do tend to make it clear to drivers who has the right - of-way. Rest ripe the off-ramps to two lanes. As the ramps near their termini near the underpasses, the paved width is such that two lanes of traffic could be accommodated. The ramp could be restriped to one left turn lane, and one shared left/right lane . This would mean restriping the underpass road as well. This is probably feasible with the existing roadway width, although some additional paving may be required. If paving is required, then funding must be found. Some truck drivers park on the ramps and under the overpass. No parking would have to be enforced if two lanes are installed . Variable message signing on the freeway could warn westbound drivers of congested conditions at Exit 54, and direct them to Exit 53. This requires staff and incurs operation and maintenance costs. If Exit 53 is congested, drivers would need information in advance of Exit 54 so they could choose that exit instead. If both ramps are congested, then the VMS could only warn drivers of congested conditions . Since there are no westbound ramps at Exit 52, drivers would only have the choice of slowing for congestion, or bypassing the Summit area. Variable message signs would have to be monitored and updated as conditions change. Improvements to the intersection of SR-906 and Exit 53 could help, since southbound delays there may be spilling back and causing delay on the off-ramps. Please see discussion below. Manual traffic control at the off-ramps during peak times . Certified flaggers directing traffic to continue through might alleviate some delay. Kittitas County Comprehensive Plan December 2016