Item 15 Staff Report Consider Status Report on Ferris/Englewood Traffic Calming MeasuresCOUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
DATE: February 28, 2001
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN•COUNCIL
FROM: TOWN MAN
SUBJECT:
MEETING DATE : 3/5/01
ITEM NO. ,
CONSIDER STATUS REPORT ON FERRIS/ENGLEWOOD TRAFFIC
CALMING MEASURES
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Receive public input.
2. Direct staff to install traffic control measures as recommended by the Town Traffic Engineer.
3. Direct staff to hold a neighborhood meeting four months after traffic control measures have
been installed.
4. Direct staff to prepare a status report after neighborhood meeting for Council consideration.
BACKGROUND:
The Town Council directed the preparation of a Traffic Calming Study to identify existing traffic
problems and potential traffic calming measures in the Englewood, Ferris and Spencer neighborhood
area. In March and April 2000, traffic control changes were implemented including signing, road
markings, turn restrictions and signal timing changes.
The Council directed that a status report be submitted at the end of a six-month "pilot" program so
the various measures could be evaluated. During the six-month pilot program period, numerous
neighborhood residents called and wrote indicating their response, both positive and negative, about
the changes. Attachments 4 through 8 are letters received from neighbors.
REMARKS:
Attachment 2 is a report dated November 12, 2000, from the Town's traffic engineer, Gary Kruger
of TJKM, summarizing the traffic calming program, actions taken, and results.The report indicates
that the traffic calming measures are successful in reducing cut through traffic, improving the level
of service (LOS) at the intersection of Los Gatos Blvd./Kennedy/Caldwell, significantly reducing
PREPARED BY: BUD N. LORTZ12
DIRECTOR OF CO ' J�EVELOPMENT
LARRY PERLIN ��
DIRECTOR OF P • ' S : : LIC WORKS
Reviewed by: Cifr Attorney Revised: 2/28/01 3:32 pm
Reformatted: 7/14/99
PAGE 2
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: CONSIDER TRAFFIC ENGINEER REPORTS
February 28, 2001
truck traffic in the neighborhood, and reducing speeding.
Residents reported problems associated with the restricted turns at Ferris & Kennedy and Spencer
and Los Gatos Blvd., and the elimination of the left turn arrow at the intersection of Los Gatos
Blvd./Kennedy/Caldwell.
County Participation with Traffic Calming Measures
The Town Traffic Engineer contacted Santa Clara County staff to discuss possible traffic calming
improvements to intersections within the County pocket. The County does not have a traffic calming
program and County staff has indicated that it will not approve any of the requested improvements
at this time. Staff and the Traffic Engineer will continue to work with the County to seek agreement
on installation of traffic calming measures on County roadways (e.g. traffic circles or all way stops
at Englewood & Loma and Marchmont & Littlefield, and tightened intersection geometry on
Englewood at Kennedy and Loma and Ferris). Staff will report back to the Council after meetings
are held to discuss the proposed traffic calming improvements.
Neighborhood Meeting
A neighborhood meeting was held on February 13, 2001 to review all traffic calming efforts
implemented to date, including follow-up studies on changes in traffic conditions due to the
improved signal timing measures. The Traffic Engineer reviewed the various traffic calming
measures that have been implemented, measures that were not taken, and findings from traffic
checks. At the neighborhood meeting, residents indicated they were strongly in favor of reinstating
the left turn arrows at the intersection of Los Gatos Blvd./Kennedy, so that vehicles can make
protected left turns from Los Gatos Blvd. onto Kennedy Road due to concerns about the safety of
making this turn. There was also considerable discussion about restricted turns from southbound
Los Gatos Blvd. onto Spencer. According to comments received at the meeting, the present turn
restriction signs have not been effective and have mainly resulted in inconveniencing the residents.
Attachment 1 is a summary of the issues, concerns and comments received from residents who
attended the meeting. The Traffic Engineer prepared a follow-up report after the neighborhood
meeting (Attachment 3). This report summarizes the events of the meeting and includes
recommendations for two changes to the traffic calming measures:
Eliminate the no left turn from southbound Los Gatos Blvd. onto Spencer and install a no
left turn sign from Ferris onto Kennedy.
Change the signal operation at Kennedy/Caldwell/Los Gatos Blvd. to include a lagging
protected left turn phase.
Conclusion:
If authorized by the Council, the two changes to the traffic calming program will be implemented
as quickly as possible. Town staff and the Traffic Engineer will continue to work with Santa Clara
County to try to reach an agreement about installing traffic calming improvements within County
PAGE 3
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: CONSIDER TRAFFIC ENGINEER REPORTS
February 28, 2001
pockets. The traffic calming changes will be evaluated three months after installation. A
neighborhood meeting will then be held to receive input. A report summarizing the results of the
traffic calming measures and the neighborhood meeting will then be forwarded to the Council for
consideration.
Fiscal Impact:
The changes to the signal at Los Gatos Blvd./Kennedy/Caldwell would cost approximately $6,000.
There are sufficient funds in the FY 2000-2001 operating budget to cover this expense.
Attachments:
1. Issues, Concerns & Comments from February 13, 2001 neighborhood meeting
2. Report from Gary Kruger of TJKM, Town Traffic Engineer, dated November 14, 2000.
3. Report from Gary Kruger of TJKM, Town Traffic Engineer, dated February 21, 2001
4. Letter from John L. Griffin (one page), received December 21, 2000
5. Letter from W. H. Lindsay (two pages), received December 27, 2000
6. Letters from John H. Thomson with endorsement by neighbors (four pages), received
January 19 and February 8, 2001
7. Letter from W.H. Lindsay (three pages), received February 12, 2001
8. Letter from Marilyn Allen (one page), received February 13, 2001
Distribution:
Larry Todd, Chief of Police
Gary Kruger, TJKM Traffic Consultants, 4234 Hacienda Drive, Suite 101, Pleasanton, CA 94588
Gregg Moss, 16788 Littlefield Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Cathy Kierans, 16573 Ferris Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95032
Joanne Varni, 16566 Topping Way, Los Gatos, CA 95032
John L. Griffin, 169 Longmeadow Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95032
John H. Thomson, 101 Kennedy Court, Los Gatos, CA 95032
W. H. Lindsay, 328 Harding Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030-6309
Marilyn Allen, 16601 Ferris Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95032
BNL:SD:mdc
N:\DEV\SUZANNE\Council\Reports\TCProgram-3-5.wpd
Ferris/Englewood Neighborhood Meeting
Traffic Calming Program - February 13, 2001
ISSUES, CONCERNS & COMMENTS
Kennedy Road/Caldwell Avenue/Los Gatos Blvd. intersection:
• Safety while making left turns from Los Gatos Blvd. onto Kennedy Road
• Consider increasing length of left turn lane
• Protective left turn at beginning and/or end of signal
Current turn restriction signs are not effective:
• Reinstate left turn onto Spencer from southbound Los Gatos Blvd.
• Many drivers disregard turn restriction signs
• Turn restriction signs are simply diverting traffic onto other streets in the neighborhood
• Neighborhood residents are inconvenienced and have to take more circuitous routes home
• Restricting left turns from Ferris Avenue onto Kennedy Road would be more effective
• Turn restriction signs should have a Saturday -Sunday -Holiday exception
Speed bumps could help slow traffic down
Consider installation of "Local Traffic Only" signs
Maintenance and repairs:
• Chatter bars and curbing are broken and need to be replaced
• Loma Street pavement is in poor condition (consider widening)
• Eliminate the dip on Kennedy Road at Los Gatos Blvd.
Follow-up meetings requested:
• Hold a meeting four to six months after the Montessori School opens
• Install traffic circles for a trial period and then have a meeting to discuss
Installation of Traffic Circles:
• Work with Santa Clara County on agreement for installation of traffic circles and other
improvements on County roads or areas with joint responsibility
• Install traffic circles for trial period and evaluate effectiveness
• Vehicles towing boats or trailers can't use traffic circles
Ferris/Kennedy intersection is choked by concrete dividers
Eliminate parking on Kennedy Road at Los Gatos Blvd. to provide right turn lane
Investigate safety concerns at Shannon Road/Englewood Avenue intersection
Consider curved roadways (chicane) to slow traffic
Montessori School traffic will add to existing problems
Consider use of photo radar
Potholes on Loma actually slow traffic
Modified signal phasing on Caldwell discourages cut through traffic Attachmeni
1
Transportation Consultants
RECEIVED
MEMORANDUM hr, 9 c 2000
November 14, 2000
To:
From:
Subject:
Paul Curtis, Director
Dept. of Community Development
Town of Los Gatos
110 E. Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95031
Gary Kruger, P.E.
Town Traffic Engineer
TOWN OF LOS GA OS
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Project No.: 021-030, Task 7
Jurisdiction: Town of Los Gatos
Final Report — Ferris/Englewood Traffic Calming Project
We have completed our After Study of the effects of the traffic control changes implemented in
March and April, 2000. The intent was primarily to reduce the cut -through traffic on internal
neighborhood streets including Ferris Avenue, Spencer Avenue, Loma Street, and Englewood
Avenue. The following traffic controls were established:
• No Right Turn, westbound Kennedy Road at Ferris Avenue, 7 to 10 a.m.
• No Right Turn, eastbound Spencer Avenue at Ferris Avenue, 2:30 to 6 p.m. (this was
subsequently changed to prohibit southbound left turns onto Spencer from Los Gatos
Boulevard during the same hours)
• Truck restrictions on Englewood Avenue and Ferris Avenue (with Santa Clara County
concurrence for Englewood Avenue restrictions)
• Median dividers on Spencer at Ferris, Ferris at Spencer (both northbound and southbound
approaches), and on Ferris at Kennedy
• Targeted police enforcement of truck restrictions and 25 mph speed limits on Ferris Avenue
and on Englewood Avenue
• Ban on truck parking along Ferris Avenue
• Signal revisions at Los Gatos Boulevard, Kennedy Road and Caldwell Avenue
The following elements of the plan were recommended but not implemented, because the
concurrence of Santa Clara County is required and was not forthcoming:
• Traffic circles/all-way stops at Englewood and Loma, Marchmont and Littlefield
• "Tightened Intersection Geometry" on Englewood at Kennedy Road, on Loma at Ferris
The town traffic engineer had an extensive meeting with Sadegh Sadeghi, Associate Civil Engineer
with Santa Clara County Roads and Airports Department on Tuesday, November 7, 2000. At that
meeting we tried to obtain county concurrence with allowing a pilot project of the traffic circles
and tightened intersections, but were turned down for two reasons:
4234 Hacienda Drive, Suite 101, Pleasanton, Californir
• Phone (925)463-0611 ♦ Fax (925)463-3690 •e—mail tjk Attachment 2
Paul Curtis, November 1,7, L000, Pg. 2
1. The county has no formal program for traffic calming, and they also have an almost
infinite demand for action on various residential streets in unincorporated areas, with some
quite nearby to the proposed circles on Englewood.
2. The county staff feel quite strongly that traffic calming measures are unnecessary
impediments to the normal circulation of traffic, and especially penalize law abiding
drivers. They maintain that it is preferable to use enforcement to catch the gross speed
violators that are causing the problem on Englewood Avenue. We countered that the
targeted enforcement program was ineffective because the problem drivers only drive by
once to five times daily.
The county suggested that the Town of Los Gatos consider photo radar as a strategy for controlling
traffic speeds on residential streets. They said that the City of San Jose has had great success with
this method.
In parallel with these activities, we also worked with town engineering staff and signal
maintenance contract technicians to modify the signal operation at Los Gatos Boulevard and
Kennedy Road. Essentially, the actions taken were to reduce the drain on capacity from the
protected left turns on Los Gatos Boulevard, and also from the minor approach of Caldwell by only
bringing the green for Caldwell up every other cycle. The cycle was modified thus:
1. Los Gatos Boulevard — 39 seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 64 seconds in the p.m.
2. Kennedy Road — 23 seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 23 seconds in the p.m.
3. Los Gatos Boulevard — 39 more seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 64 seconds in the
p.m.
4. Kennedy Road — 23 more seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 23 seconds in the p.m.
5. Caldwell (with pedestrians) — up to 26 seconds at all times.
This change in phasing has resulted in taking the intersection from Level of Service F in the a.m.
and p.m. peaks (LOS E in the mid -day) to LOS C at worst. These changes were made effective in
early November, 2000. A week after the changes were made, peak hour observations were made
and we found:
• Removal of the protected left turns on Los Gatos Boulevard was a problem for about six
months because no effective changes had been made to the timing and phasing on Kennedy
Road and Caldwell Avenue.
• Upon improving the phasing for Kennedy and Caldwell, the p.m. peak LOS went from F to
around C, but with residual problems. About 5 out of the 40 or so cycles per hour had
southbound left turns remaining at the end of green on Los Gatos Boulevard. These are the
drivers that sometimes cut through on Ferris to avoid the delay— but it is also hard to make a
southbound left turn onto Spencer in the p.m. peak hour (which is prohibited).
• Other than minor left turn capacity problems during a few cycles, the intersection works quite
well in the p.m. peak hour.
• In the a.m. peak hour the change has helped cure the cut -through problems on both Ferris
Avenue and Englewood Avenue. During the two hours from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., approximately
15 to 20 minutes at the intersection are at an unacceptable LOS. This occurs from 8:10 a.m. to
around 8:25 a.m. when traffic to and from Hillbrook School uses Kennedy Road for school
access. During one cycle, westbound traffic backed up all the way to Englewood Avenue, and
for 8 cycles, westbound traffic backed up to Ferris Avenue. Formerly, westbound traffic on
Paul Curtis, November 14+, .000, Pg. 3
Kennedy Road backed up to Englewood Avenue for almost an hour, and many drivers,
including trucks, were tempted (and yielded) to avoid the congestion by using Ferris and
Englewood Avenues. Other than the peak 15 to 20 minutes, traffic did not queue on Kennedy
Road.
• In the a.m. peak hour, Caldwell Avenue now has queues of up to 10 cars (not all of which can
make it through the green light). Likewise, pedestrians must wait over two minutes at times to
cross Los Gatos Boulevard due to the changes in phasing.
Results and Impacts on Ferris Avenue and Englewood Avenue Traffic:
• The restrictions on trucks coupled with targeted enforcement has all but eliminated the
significant truck traffic on Englewood Avenue. Truck traffic on Ferris Avenue was not much
of a problem to begin with.
• In the a.m. peak hour, volumes on Ferris Avenue were reduced from 101 vehicles per hour to
44 vehicles per hour. Cut through traffic was reduced to about 10 cars per hour.
• In the p.m. peak hour, volumes on Ferris Avenue were reduced from 74 vehicles per hour to
about 40 vehicles per hour with about 15 cars cutting through to avoid the left turn delays at the
Kennedy Road signal.
• On Englewood Avenue, a.m. peak hour traffic was reduced 58% from 483 vehicles per hour in
the a.m. peak hour to 281 vehicles per hour (most were to and from Hillbrook School). The
p.m. peak hour reductions were similar, from 265 vehicles per hour down to only 135 vehicles
per hour, a 49% decrease. This decrease is due to the changes and improvements in signal
operation at Kennedy and Los Gatos Boulevard more than anything else.
• There was one truck in the a.m. peak hour, and two during the p.m. peak. This is down by
about 70% from before truck restrictions and signal timing improvements.
• No significant speeding was observed on either Ferris Avenue nor Englewood Avenue. It is
likely, however, that the aberrant, grossly negligent drivers are still there and still speed from
time to time.
Our conclusion is that the combination of truck restrictions, turning restrictions, intersection
channelization and signal operations improvements have addressed most of the most severe
neighborhood traffic problems in the area. The town council might consider the use of photo radar
for traffic calming in future efforts, but such use should be subject to a rigorous review prior to
proceding.
02/21/2001 17:20 9254633690 TJKM PAGE 01
NiiiTransportation Consultants
FAX TRANSMITTAL
February 21, 2001
To:
Bud Lortz, Acting Director Fax No.: (408) 354-7593
Dept. of Community Development Phone No.: (408) 354-6867
Town of Los Gatos
Kruger, P.E.Alt_c_47
From: Gary g , Phone No.: (925) 463-0611
Town Traffic Engineer
Pages (Inc. Cover): Project No.: 21-030, Task 7
Original to Follow: No Jurisdiction: Los Gatos
Subject: Follow -Up Report, Ferris/Englewood Traffic Calming Project
Remarks:
A public meeting was held on Tuesday, February 13, 2001 in the Town Council Chambers. Town
officials reviewed the steps taken to calm traffic in the neighborhood and the results of the studies.
It was also explained that the County of Santa Clara had determined not to cooperate with traffic
calming measures on Englewood as had been determined in public meetings held in February,
2000. The county's reasoning was that it is inappropriate to hinder traffic flow on any street, and
the county also had no traffic calmine policy or program, and this was not the instance to initiate
such a program.
The measures that were ultimately installed or implemented are:
• No Right Turn, westbound Kennedy Road at Ferris Avenue, 7 to 10 a.m.
• No Right Turn, eastbound Spencer Avenue at Ferris Avenue, 2:30 to 6 p.m. (this was
subsequently changed to prohibit southbound left turns onto Spencer from Los Gatos
Boulevard during the same hours)
• Truck restrictions on Englewood Avenue and Ferris Avenue (with Santa Clara County
concurrence for Englewood Avenue restrictions)
• Median dividers on Spencer at Ferris, Ferris at Spencer (both northbound and southbound
approaches), and on Ferris at Kennedy
• Targeted police enforcement of truck restrictions and 25 mph speed Iimits on Ferris Avenue
and on Englewood Avenue
• Ban on truck parking along Ferris Avenue
• Signal revisions at Los Gatos Boulevard, Kennedy Road and Caldwell Avenue
4234 Hacienda Drive, Suite 101, Pleasanton, California94'
• Phone (925)463-0611 •Fax (925)463-3690 •e—mail tjkm@ Attachment 3
02/21/2001 17:20 9254633690 TJKM PAGE 02
Bud Lortz, February 21, 2001, Pg_ 2
The following elements of the plan were recommended but not implemented_ because the
concurrence of Santa Clara County is required and was not forthcoming:
• Traffic circles/all-way stops at Englewood and Loma, Marchmont and Littlefield
• "Tightened Intersection Geometry" on Englewood at Kennedy Road, on Loma at Ferris
In parallel with these activities, we also worked with town engineering staff and signal
maintenance contract technicians to modify the signal operation at Los Gatos Boulevard and
Kennedy Road. Essentially, the actions taken were to reduce the drain on capacity from the
protected left turns on Los Gatos Boulevard, and also from the minor approach of Caldwell by only
bringing the green for Caldwell up every other cycle. The cycle was modified thus:
1. Los Gatos Boulevard — 39 seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 64 seconds in the p.m.
2. Kennedy Road — 23 seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 23 seconds in the p.m.
3. Los Gatos Boulevard — 39 more seconds in the a.m. and mid -day, and 64 seconds in the
p.tn.
4. Kennedy Road — 23 more seconds in the a.m. and mud -day, and 23 seconds in the p.in.
5. Caldwell (with pedestrians) — up to 26 seconds at all times.
Traffic checks were made after all the above modifications were made to traffic regulations and
traffic signals. We found that:
• Upon changing the phasing for Kennedy and Caldwell, the p.m. peak LOS went from F to
around C, but with residual problems. About 5 out of the 40 or so cycles per hour had
southbound left turns remaining at the end of green on Los Gatos Boulevard. These are the
drivers that sometimes cut through on Ferris to avoid the delay — but it is also hard to make a
southbound left turn onto Spencer in the p.m. peak hour (which is prohibited).
• Other than left turn capacity problems during a few cycles, the intersection works quite well in
the p.m. peak hour.
• In the a.m. peak hour the change has helped cure the cut -through problems on both Ferris
Avenue and Englewood Avenue. During the two hours from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., approximately
15 to 20 minutes at the intersection are at an unacceptable LOS. This occurs from 8:10 a.m. to
around 8:25 a.m. when traffic to and from Hillbrook School uses Kennedy Road for school
access. During one cycle, westbound traffic backed up all the way to Englewood Avenue. and
for 8 cycles, westbound traffic backed up to Ferris Avenue. Formerly, westbound traffic on
Kennedy Road backed up to Englewood Avenue for almost an hour., and many drivers;
including trucks, were tempted (and yielded) to avoid the congestion by using Ferris and
Englewood Avenues. Other than the peak 15 to 20 minutes, traffic did not queue on Kennedy
Road.
• In the a.m. peak hour, Caldwell Avenue now has queues of up to 10 cars (not all of which can
make it through the green light). Likewise, pedestrians must wait over two minutes at times to
cross Los Gatos Boulevard due to the changes in phasing.
02/21/2001 17:20 9254633690 TJKM PAGE 03
Bud Lortz, February 21, 2001, Pg. 3
Results and Impacts on Ferris Avenue and Englewood Avenue Traffic:
• The restrictions on trucks coupled with targeted enforcement has all but eliminated the
significant truck traffic on Englewood Avenue. Truck traffic on Ferris Avenue was not much
of a problem to begin with.
• In the a.m. peak hour, volumes on Ferris Avenue were reduced from 101 vehicles per hour to
44 vehicles per hour. Cut through traffic was reduced to about 10 cars per hour.
• In the p.m. peak hour, volumes on Ferris Avenue were reduced from 74 vehicles per hour to
about 40 vehicles per hour with about 15 cars cutting through to avoid the left turn delays at the
Kennedy Road signal.
• On Englewood Avenue, a.m. peak hour traffic was reduced 58% from 483 vehicles per hour in
the a.m. peak hour to 281 vehicles per hour (most were to and from Hillbrook School)_ The
p.m. peak hour reductions were similar, from 265 vehicles per hour down to only 135 vehicles
per hour, a 49% decrease. This decrease is due to the changes and improvements in signal
operation at Kennedy and Los Gatos Boulevard more than anything else_
• There was one truck in the a.m. peak hour, and two during the p.m peak. This is down by
about 70% from before truck restrictions and signal timing improvements.
• No significant speeding was observed on either Ferris Avenue nor Englewood Avenue. It is
likely, however, that the aberrant, grossly negligent drivers are still there and still speed from
time to time.
At the public meeting, however, many spoke in favor of returning the left turn arrows to Los Gatos
Boulevard at Kennedy Road and Caldwell Avenue. The comments were directed at the lessening
of traffic safety for people making these turns. A substantial discussion occurred with respect to
perhaps leaving the permitted left turns in, but allowing a left turn arrow at the end of the green on
Los Gatos Boulevard to ensure that trapped drivers can make their turn successfully.
Another major comment was the effects of left turn restrictions on drivers southbound on Los
Gatos Boulevard at Spencer Avenue. Currently, to avoid breaking the law, most residents now turn
onto Shannon Road and then backtrack to their home on streets served by Spencer Avenue.
On the basis of the comments received, we conclude that two changes are needed to complete this
effort:
1. Change the evening peak hour left turn restriction to prohibit southbound Ferris left turns
onto Kennedy Road. Any such restriction will also need to be signed at Spencer and Ferris
Avenues to notify people that they cannot continue through the neighborhood.
2. Change the signal operation on Los Gatos Boulevard at Kennedy Road/Caldwell Avenue
to a lagging protected left tum phase for both southbound and northbound traffic. This left
turn phase would only be activated if drivers wishing to turn left remain at the end of the
normal green time on Los Gatos Boulevard. This will require a change in the signal heads
at the intersection, going to a five -section head on the mast arms and far side left poles for
Los Gatos Boulevard traffic. The cost of these modifications could approach $6,000.
The result of the signal changes will be a return of increased delay and congestion at the signal, and
additional traffic short cutting through the neighborhood — especially on. Ferris and Spencer
02/ 21 / 2001 17: 20 9254633690 TJKM PAGE 04
Bud Lortz. February 21, 2001, Pg. 4
Avenues. We estimate a return of at least half of the short cut traffic because of the change in
signal operation. If the signal is returned to operation as it was prior to this project, almost ail the
short cutting traffic would return to the short cuts, because the old phasing of the signal does not
have sufficient capacity for the traffic demand at the intersection.
There are no ideal solutions to traffic problems in this area. The public at the meeting clearly
understood the implications of returning to the protected left turn phases. The only mitigation we
can offer is limiting these phases to very short times, and only when permitted left turns have not
been made earlier in the cycle.
J:1L;Los Gatos1021.030\Task 7\f022101.doc
LONGMEADOIV
DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION
Mr. Paul Curtis
Town of Los Gatos
41 Miles Avenue
Box 949
Los Gatos, Ca. 95031
Dear Mr. Curtis,
1500 E. Hamilton Avenue, Suite 201, Campbell, CA 95008-0835
(408) 377-5151 FAX (408) 377-5199
December 20, 2000
DEC 21 2000
(UVdiv OF LOS GA!OS
Pi.ANN'ING DEPARTMENT
I would like to bring a traffic problem to your attention that
is driving me and many others right up the wall.
A few months ago the City installed a "No Left Turn" sign at
the corner of Los Gatos Blvd. and Spencer Avenue. At the same
time, you eliminated the left turn arrow from Los Gatos Blvd. to
Kennedy Road.
That is really a "no win" situation. It takes a couple of green
lights (and usually on the yellow light) to make a left- turn on to
Kennedy Road.
From talking to one of your guys at City Hall, all of this has to
do with the traffic in the morning in and around Van Meter School.
The problem I am talking about has to do with the evening
commute. The solution of course is either the left turn on Spencer
has to be reinstated or you have to put the left turn arrow back at
Kennedy.
Helps l I !
Very truly yours,
Joh
169 ongmeadow Drive
Attachment 4
Iv Lai
2000
j L?V!i•.; OF LOS GA OS
PLANNiNG DEPARTMENT
Paul Curtis
Director of Community Development
PO. Box 949
Los Gatos, CA 95031
Dear Mr. Curtis.
W. H. Lindsay
328 Harding Avenue,
Los Gatos, CA 95030-6309
December 26, 2000
This is to put in writing the concerns I expressed to you during our telephone
conversation, December 12, 2000. My phone call was in regard to the removal of a left
turn signal at Kennedy and Los Gatos Boulevard for westbound traffic on Los Gatos
Boulevard.
Up until recently, when a person was traveling westbound on Los Gatos Boulevard, they
had the benefit of a stop signal that held on -coming eastbound traffic while the
westbound traffic was able to make a relatively safe left hand turn from the special left
turn lane provided. They would turn left with the green arrow. That left turn green
signal has now been removed, and drivers are forced to make a left hand turn against
oncoming opposing eastbound traffic, with the signal showing green for both east and
westbound traffic at the same time. This, in my opinion, is an invitation for disaster.
During the commute times of the day, it is almost, and at times impossible, to make a left
hand turn onto Kennedy road when the green light is showing for east and westbound
traffic. A number of times, I have had to wait for several signal changes as the eastbound
traffic is so heavy, the on -coming drivers will not let you through. Often, the only way
one can make a left hand turn is to edge out into the middle of the intersection, and then
when the light turns red, make a dash across to Kennedy — against traffic. This, I believe
should be illegal, and I know is an unsafe way to make a left turn. I have seen it happen a
number of times, and it surely is going to result in an accident sooner or later.
I have seen it when more than one car is in the left hand turn lane, no one has been able to
turn left on the green for the first or second signal change. The driver in the second or
third car in line waiting to make the left turn, will lay on the horn and the lead car
driver is pressured into taking chances that should never be taken. I told you about one
experience where a person behind me was upset because I could not get through on the
second light change, and they almost got broad -sided following me when I finally did get
through. This condition is also a source of potential road -rage.
1
Attachment 5
Kennedy road is an acknowledged heavily trafficked road. It seems inconceivable to me
that the town would change a relatively safe situation into one that would force people,
who normally use Kennedy, to take back streets to get to their homes. Having to do this,
in most cases, just uses more gas, congests the other streets that do not have benefit of
proper signaling, and lays the groundwork for even more traffic problems, and serious
accidents.
I would appreciate it if the town would please go back to the old signal system of
providing a red light for eastbound traffic on Los Gatos Boulevard, enabling westbound
traffic to make a relatively safe left tum on the green arrow. Other wise, I think the town
is accepting a tremendous legal liability.
Thank you for taking note of my concerns and for considering this important matter.
Sincerely
Bud Lortz
Interim Director Community Development
Los Gatos Town Council
110 East Main Street
Los Gatos
Dear Sir,
101 Kennedy Court
Los Gatos
CA95032
Phone 408 358 8231
171" January 2001
AVER
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
Kennedy Road/Los Gatos Blvd junction
The above junction is one of the most notorious junctions in town especially at
peak times of the day. Besides "normal" traffic, there are a number of schools in
the area, namely Fisher Middle, Van Meter, Blossom Hill and Los Gatos High
school where the students are commuting at the same time of the day. This
junction has become even busier and even dangerous due to changes in the flow
of traffic.
There is a serious accident waiting to happen at this junction.
In the past, vehicles turning left off Los Gatos Blvd into Kennedy Road were
allowed to progress with the assistance of a left filter light at this junction.
Vehicles were also allowed to use Ferris Drive and Spencer Avenue to join and
leave Los Gatos Blvd to or from Kennedy Road at any time of the day. The
aforementioned seemed to work satisfactorily.
However, the left filter light has been taken away thus leaving drivers to wait until
the road clears and the light is in their favor to take the turning into Kennedy
Road. Many times the road is not properly clear due to oncoming drivers on Los
Gatos Blvd "racing" to beat the light or because it is clogged due to traffic volume
and/or lights further down the road being at red. I have waited many times and
saw the lights change at least 3 times before I could "safely" (?) turn into
Kennedy Road. The waiting at these lights causes traffic to pile up along Los
Gatos Blvd and even block drivers who merely want to drive straight on Los
Gatos Blvd. I have also noted on several occasions, anger and frustration with
waiting and/or oncoming drivers bearing pressure on other drivers to take the
turning into Kennedy Road when it is not really safe to do so.
Besides the above, drivers were previously allowed to bypass this junction by
using Ferris Drive and Spencer Avenue. However it now appears to be illegal to
use this diversion between certain hours (the busiest hours). This new ruling,
Attachment 6
which seems to be of some benefit to a few residents in these streets, is to the
detriment of the many residents in the area. Their objection to others using this
right of way cannot be "speeding drivers" as the road is in too bad a state and too
short to allow any "speeding"! ! draw your attention to the fact that both streets
are public streets and as such should be used by the public without restriction.
In conclusion, may I suggest you:
Reinstate the filter traffic light (with appropriate timing) or consider a 4 way stop
on Los Gatos Blvd./Kennedy Road junction.
And
Reopen Ferris Drive and Spencer Avenue to traffic at all hours and, if needed,
place speed bumps on these streets to control traffic "speed".
Or
Implement a system which takes away the danger and frustration of many of your
town's people.
I thank you for your consideration and await an early and meaningful solution to a
major problem and a major accident waiting to happen.
Yours truly,
John H Thomson
Endorsed by:
Natalie Thomson
Paul Thomson Pa;, j T'ho.,,, scan
�11r1 i
IJULA L_VI LG.
Interim Director Community
m Inity Development
11 ILG111I1 Director %JL#I 1111 ILd1 IILy
1 Gatos Tna..n Council
LG.7 ' Gatos 1 V YYI I
A e n r -.A.a a_._. gs__ _a
I IV Ccibt.
LGJ va LGS
Deal Sir,
,
i ill
11 \enIlledy VVuI l
Les Gatos
r` A f gri").?
V71.-.`Jose
Phone 4063588231
i l I H January 2001
rtGL33I tJy ltJCIILli ,v� vuivs ui vu j1.4114LIV11
Thn ahnl,n ' nn}inn i . ne of +hn men} nets ri e..n n}:napp 'n tn.. .r. eon ;n111. ',I-
S
1 IC. gIJVYG jul I ..LILJI 1 IO GI IG VI 11 IG IIIVJL I IGLGI IVUJ JUl IL,LIVI IJ I! I LVYY11 GOi.JeG1clly CIL
peak times of the Naar Besides "normal" traffic there are as n11s1•'Y.er of schools in peak times
V the Ut.Iy. 1-LJIUVJ "normal" traffic,
there r. are {1N1111JLrl of sLl VVI111
the area, namely I lely Fisher Middle, V,a! 1 Meter, I.JIOSsoI11 Hill and Los Gatos High
scfl ool ',where a the students are commuting at the ..7.II11G Lil Ie of the day. This
junction 1 3Ias become eve! I busier and eve! 1 dangerous Gus due to changes Ilh,es in j the flow
of traffic.
There is a serious accident ,Yallii kh LV h ClnnL]rt C4!. t{'110 I 11 nr+tlhn
�{ 1I ,L/n411 CAL LI IIJ IUI IGLIV11.
In the past, vehicles turning left off Los Gatos Blvd into Kennedy Road were
aallowedto progress YYItl l the assistance of a left filter light i !t at this junction.
Vl (.
,V GI IIni1GJ vvGrG also GIIIVvYGV tV uJ�i GnVelII VVjitaFerris Drive aAver,' LVi1/-1
lcali V LGS V1iG, wi ve L,J GI I I GIiI Kenncuy 3Gau aL clay Thy,ee of Life fj— i Tic
nfnrn rpnnti nnerd non mrarrlI to a�.n rl, nat:nfn ntgril.
C1! V! 1✓1 . 1G1 1LIV! !GU JGGI I IGi: LV
However, the loft filter light h? been taken away thus leaving drivers 4n wait until 1 VYYe YGI, the left Ii1LG1 lIL,.I 11 has LJeGI! taken QYYI3y LI 3.40 leaving U11YGIs to YYCIIL UI IL11
the
road dears
a, ,d 11 ie Il 31+ ici ii 1 Li ieir tuvvr Lv Lane Lila fl i 11111e 11 itv Kalrllneur
RoadOnnr! Many times the road is not properly 'clear due +r. oncoming drivers on Los
. IY1131 Iy LII 11G0 the I LJQU 10 1 IVt i.Jl LJJ.JGI 1y I.IGaI uuG 1V Vn VV11III IlU
C'atno Rlarri "racing" }n heat She light er hen'. 1so it is ninggord r"111e 4e traffic atn111 e
LJGLL/s UI YU I Qv11 1L� LLJ IJGQL LI IG IILJ. I IL VI 1..G VC2UpSG IL Is VlVLJ. L. GU VUG LIG LI Q111pV Y.JIUI�G
Qr IVI VI IIjI ILG If-4I Li 1Cl Arm
I Lf IG rVQU NGi11y aL rGV. I 110YG YY1ILGU 11 V! ly L1ri IGJ QI IL�4
s ',,v the lights change at least 3 times before 1 could '-elan' !'1 turn into
J YY the 11 \.J/ Its change at least V 11111VJ LJV1V1 e 1 L,Vu1U "safely" , 1 lull [ into
Kennedy Roar[ The a. ng at these lights na1 non traffic to Ir. along Los
Kennedy (Guy Road. 1 (le waiting at U IGnJG lights 1143.40G0 traffic to pile up along LGJJ
GatosBlvd nrl even hlnnl, drivers u.hn merely ',.rant to drive straight on Los
LJ Gatos LI YU and even I block L11 I YC.1 s YYI 1V merely 'want to, LA11 YG straight IL V! 1
GatosGatos Blvd. I have also, noted on several occasions anger and frustration a�ri4h
LVII VYIV/.j. I I/C4 eir.141 oncoming
1 1VL U V1 1j bearing
YC-il Cll occasions, 1J, anger GI QI IU 1 LiJti QrI�VI 1 YYILI I
waiting and/ or oncoI l t11 f1gg. drivers bearii l pressure on 'Wither drivers to take the
turning into Kennedy Road 'when it is not really safe to do so.
Besides the above, drivers were previously allowed to bypass this junction by
usingping Ferris Drive and Spencer Avenue. However it nr. appears e he illegal to
1 GII3J LJI IYG and �JIJGI!34i.! llYGI IL.4G. I IGYYGYGI it now Qi.J1.JGRf0 to be illegal to
use this diversion between certain hours (the busiest hours). This nevi/ ruling, ,
YYI IILel'yl1 �JGGF seems to 1.JG VI some 1C benefit the
C IGrV�V residents 1lJ 11 1 these
J{G streets, is to the
detriment of the many residents IF I 11 iG area. Their objection I to y-o others state
using this
right of YVCdy cannot be "speeding drivers" as the road Is in too bad U stale and too
JI IVF C [V OIIV YV OI F "spGGVlf 1 ��! 1 VI GVY'I VU! attention 1 to ',hefact that both I streets
are public streets and as such should be used IJy 11 IG 'JUhI(1�.. YYlll IoUI restriction.
ictiol 1.
In r'nnr+ll IOinn 1/ 1 01 lnot 1r11 I
11 I l,Vl I1..1U.71%.d1 I, rI Qmooty 1 JdyyGJC yVtA.
�Gll 1s1Qle 17 is �IlLGI LI a li, IUV! 1 7vii LI I "apJI vp1 laic i1(i (isit"J. f vi �'onsR AG! a 4 v�iiay` stop
nn 1 n0 (2ntr.0 Rt ry !Flnnnrlri� Onnrd nr+iir.-
VI I LV.7 VQIVJ LJI U.1 (\GI 111GV� 1 ♦JCiU jUl 1VLIV11.
And
Reopen 1 Cr*l 1 Is LIi 1 Ye and . VG! IVGS Avenue Iue to traffic
IIlam.+ Ql C11! 1 IVl.il J Q1 11�.1I 11 1 eGLEG
place +spCCnitd bumps on i these streets to control traffic "speed".
Implement li a s stelll ‘Ni linil l takes C4VV'ly the danger 'uiiV frustration of marry of your
tr.,*,n'0 peoplo
IVYYI 1 J people.
.JIG.
1 thank you , for your consideration and await an early and meaningful solution f,-
1 11 IQ! 11\ JVU 1V1 yVU1 VVr!fI IVG11 CI7IV11 and CIYVCIII G11
major problem and a major accident YYOltlno to 7 I J.Jen 1.
John H i Thomson
Endorsed by:
i/1%.Lf�-fct:v ktith` /0 3 fps M pa_,& ,)
10(0 Cat', Los Ci. s
attz cd4. /0 F 6nAd V el. Los S0,4__,
s h ez (Q) L_J / rn o n I-10.-h J h t,-.e r / D c7 CJH n e �- J .�j,t aQx�ps
r (o 7 e �r c-( SI C +' Los GTS
��.�-.� a H.a(, l� 1.5'�i� o w r, r �- e � .S
i o l ((:;1 fly �1()SG=tim5'
J n ip ii.,vzoKi k.i3
/%. .;,, j2 ,,, 6J4/ r //C
W. H. Lindsay
328 Harding Avenue,
Los Gatos, CA 95030-6309
February 6, 2001
Bud Lortz
Interim Director of Community Development,
Town of Los Gatos,
110 E. Main Street,
PO. Box 949
Los Gatos, CA 95031
Dear Mr. Lortz,
,C@E
FEB 1 2 2000
TOWN OF SOS s ^, f!OS
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
This is in reference to the Town of Los Gatos' Notice of a Neighborhood
Meeting regarding The Ferris/Englewood Area Traffic Calming
Program scheduled for February 13, 2001, at 6:P.M.
I will be out of town on February 13, and thus will be unable to attend
the Neighborhood Meeting. I will appreciate it if you will make this
letter, containing my observations and comments, to be a part of the
public record of the scheduled meeting.
I am very concerned regarding the removal of the left turn signal light at
Kennedy Road and Los Gatos Boulevard for westbound traffic on Los
Gatos Boulevard. Up until recently, when a person was traveling
westbound on Los Gatos Boulevard, they had the benefit of a stop signal
that held oncoming eastbound traffic while the westbound traffic was
able to make a relatively safe left hand turn from the special left turn
lane provided. They would turn left with the green arrow. That
particular left turn green signal has been removed. Drivers are now
required to make a left hand turn against oncoming opposing eastbound
traffic, with the signal showing green for both east and westbound traffic
at the same time. In my opinion this arrangement is an open invitation
for disaster.
During the commute times of the day, it is almost - and at times
impossible, to make a left hand turn onto Kennedy Road when the green
light is showing for east and westbound traffic. A number of times, I
1
Attachment 7
area and inadvertently finds they are in this left turn lane during these
posted hours. They will have no choice but to make an illegal lane
change. Police officers may not look the other way. I know.
Several years ago I received a ticket for driving straight ahead from a left
turn lane even though traffic to the left was blocked due to an accident.
Currently, after shopping at Nob Hill Market or at Kings Court shopping
center, to avoid the left turn situation onto Kennedy Road from Los
Gatos Boulevard during commute hours, I frequently take Cherry
Blossom to Shannon, then cut down Englewood to get to my home. This
is a longer distance and takes more gas, but does avoid the bad situation
as it now exists at Kennedy Road and Los Gatos Boulevard during high
traffic times.
It seems to me, that instead of establishing a calming traffic program,
Los Gatos is instead compounding the problem in the Ferris/Englewood
area. Other drivers will take less convenient but alternate routes in order
to avoid the untenable traffic situation the Town of Los Gatos has
created by removing the left turn signal light at Kennedy Road for
westbound drivers on Los Gatos Boulevard.
It would be very helpful to the citizens of Los Gatos, and particularly to
those residents who have their homes located near the area in question if
the Town would restore the old signal system which provides a red light
for eastbound traffic on Los Gatos Boulevard, enabling westbound
traffic to again make a relatively safe left turn on a green arrow signal.
Otherwise, I think the Town may be accepting a potential legal liability.
Thank you, for taking note of my concerns, and for considering this
important matter.
Sincerely,
W. H. L ndsay
3
RECEIVED
FEB 132001
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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Attachment 8
Town Council Minutes March 5, 2001
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
HEARINGS CONTINUED
STREET RESURFACING FOR YEAR 2001/CONT.
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Glickman, that the Town Council/Redevelopment
Agency adopt Resolutions 2001-23 & 2001-1RD entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN
COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
AUTHORIZING THE TOWN MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE A
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH NICHOLS CONSULTING
ENGINEERS, CHTD. TO PERFORM DESIGN ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION
SUPPORT SERVICES IN CONNECTION WITH THE 2001 STREET RESURFACING
PROGRAM FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $275,000, and approve the recommended
work program for the 2001 Street Resurfacing Program. Carried unanimously.
MID -YEAR BUDGET REPORT FOR 2000-01 (14.09)
Assistant Town Manager, Jim Piper, gave an overview of the mid -year budget report for 2000-01
and noted a 1.5% increase in the projected General Fund annual revenue estimate for the remainder
of the year.
Motion by Glickman, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council accept the mid -year budget report and
authorize the budget adjustments as highlighted in the schedule and fully described in this evening's
report, including an adjustment to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) fund balance.
Carried unanimously.
FERRIS/ENGLEWOOD TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES (15.41)
Mayor Pirzynski announced that this was the time and place so noted to consider public input;
consider installing traffic control measures as recommended by the Town Traffic Engineer; and to
direct staff to prepare a status report after neighborhood meeting for Council consideration.
Community Development Director, Bud Lortz, addressed the issues of traffic calming in the
Englewood/Ferris neighborhoods and the actions that have been taken to mitigate the problems and
focus on the safety concerns. He spoke of the neighborhood meeting that was held and noted the
measures that are being used to notify neighbors of continued work on this issue.
The following people addressed this issue:
Mark Jensen, 120 Oak Rim Way, asked if the Town can encourage the county to address the traffic
calming mitigation items that have been identified at public meetings.
Pat Parseghian, Ferris Ave, spoke of the need for continued support of the mitigation methods and
the maintenance and enforcement issues involved with making these methods work. The
neighborhood needs to have the speed limit enforced and the barriers that have broken up maintained.
She spoke of garbage trucks and SUVs riding over the barriers and breaking them resulting in further
abuse of the system.
Mark Rapazzini, 16490 Ferris Ave., addressed the left hand turn from Los Gatos Boulevard to
Kennedy and how that would be adjusted.
Gary Kruger, TJKM Traffic Engineers, spoke of the turn restrictions on Kennedy and how some
drivers will violate this traffic control. He explained how this adjustment has reduced some of the cut
through traffic.
Robinita Lindsay, 328 Harding Ave., thanked Council for the effort they have put into the traffic
calming actions and questioned a particular item.
Bruce Swanson, 16005 Los Gatos Blvd., reconfirmed that the vehicles on Kennedy that need to exit
in the morning cut through on Ferris if they can't find a convenient alternative.
No one else from the audience spoke to this item.
TC. D 13: MM030501
8
i
Town Council Minutes March 5, 2001
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
FERRIS/ENGLEWOOD TRAFFIC CALMING/CONTINUED
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Glickman, that Council: direct staff to install traffic
control measures as recommended by the Town Traffic Engineer; direct staff to hold a neighborhood
meeting four months after traffic control measures have been installed; and direct staff to prepare a
status report after neighborhood meeting for Council consideration. Carried unanimously.
OAK MEADOW PARK/VILLA MONTALVO CONCERTS (16.33)
The following people from the audience spoke to this issue:
Terry Boyle, 1705 Mackenzi Drive, Sunnyvale, noted that he was present to answer any questions
from Council.
Bruce Labodie, 232 Carborera, Santa Cruz, noted that he was present to answer any questions.
Werner Baraker, 1425 Lora Drive, Los Gatos, speaking for the Arts Commission, noted that this
concert would not interfere with the Town's Music in the Plaza Program. He spoke of the quality
program that would be put on by the Montalvo, and asked for approval by Council.
Police Chief, Larry Todd, and Public Works Director, Larry Perlin, addressed the issues raised for
putting on this type of event in the park.
Councilmember Decker addressed the following issues regarding an event of this size in our local
park, and asked that the applicant and staff examine them all carefully:
• What is the capacity of Oak Meadow Park? (3 to 5 thousand range)
• What are these people sitting on?
• What handicapped access is available ?
• What are the current hours of the park? (8 a.m. to sunset)
• What are the lighting arrangements after dark?
• How do the trucks and equipment arrive?
• How do you handle damage control?
• What are the remediation controls for refurbishing any damaged materials?
• How will alcohol and food be controlled?
• How will the performers be selected?
• What methods are to be used for amplified noise control?
• What is the cap for the number of performances? (five at present)
• What are the plans for a Shakespearean Festival in the park? (This from our own Arts
Commission)
• How many of these regional type events can the park maintain?
• Will a calendar of events take the use of our community park away from our residents?
• Where will the ticket sales take place
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, to move forward on this application; address
all concerns that have been raised; be sure the advertisement and outreach concerning this event is
heavily done; limit the events to two this year to assess and evaluate the production; leave room on
the calendar for the Arts Commission's Shakespearean events; continue this item to March 19, 2001
for a report to come back to Council with answers to the questions that were raised, and approval of
the event with the restrictions requested by Council. Carried unanimously.
TC: D 13: MM030501
9