2. Request for Whitefish Stage Road Speed Zone Study}�N
City of Kalispell Public Works Department
Pest Office Box 1997, Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997 - Telephone (406) 758-7720, Fax (406), 8-7831
REPORT TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: James C. Hansz, P.E., Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Speed Zone Study — Whitefish Stage Road
MEETING DATE: May 3, 2004
BACKGROUND: Speed limits on Whitefish Stage Road near Edgerton School have recently become an
issue of great community concern. The roadway has a set limit of 45 MPH and a county set and posted
school zone limit of 25 MPH. There is some question whether the school zone limit is appropriate and
properly defined as to signage and length of zone. In order to clear these issues from the table and ensure
the safety of the children who attend the school and use the school crosswalks on Whitefish Stage road,
we requested that MDT perform a speed zone survey of the roadway. We would like this survey to
establish the correct roadway speed limit, set the proper parameters for the school speed zone and school
crosswalks, and assist us to obtain the necessary ancillary equipment, in the form of flashing lights and
signage which we understand may be available through other MDT programs.
Our desire is to complete this work in time for the fall school term. In order to facilitate this effort
we are prepared to assist MDT in any way we can to conduct this survey. One of the first steps in the
process is for MDT to meet with local jurisdictions to discuss how the study is conducted. This meeting
can be waived at the City Council's discretion.
ACTION REQUESTED: AT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OFMAY3 —MOTION TO INITMTEA
SPEED ZONE STUDY OF WHITEFISHSTAGEROAD AND DIRECTION TO STAFF WHETHER
THE PRELIMINARYMEETING WITH MDTISDESIRED OR IS WAIVED IN ORDER TO
EXPEDITE THE STUDY.
FISCAL EFFECTS: None.
ALTERNATIVES: As suggested by the City Council
des C. Hansz, P.E.
Director of Public W
May 3, 2004 Whitefish Stage Road Speed SWdy.doe
Chris A. Kukulski
City Manager