COUNTY OF SAN MATEO

Inter-Departmental Correspondence

Department of Public Works

DATE:

March 20, 2002

BOARD MEETING DATE:

April 2, 2002

TO:

Honorable Board of Supervisors

FROM:

Neil R. Cullen, Director of Public Works

SUBJECT:

Agreement for the Installation of an In-Pavement Lighted Crosswalk Warning System - Bay Road at Tenth Avenue - Redwood City Area

Recommendation

Adopt a resolution authorizing the President of the Board to execute an agreement with the City of Redwood City which provides that the City will construct and maintain an in-pavement lighted crosswalk warning system (ILCWS) at the intersection of Bay Road and Tenth Avenue.

Key Facts

The proposed ILCWS is being proposed to improve the safety for school children that cross Bay Road at Tenth Avenue on their way to and from the Taft Elementary School.

Discussion

The intersection of Bay Road and Tenth Avenue is partially within the unincorporated area and partially within the corporate limits of the City of Redwood City. The City is proposing to construct an ILCWS at this location and has requested that the County's cooperation as the intersection is partially within the County's jurisdiction. The crosswalk will consist of a series of embedded yellow light emitting diodes (LED) that will light up when activated by a pedestrian wanting to cross the intersection. The purpose of the lighted LED's is to make motorists more aware of the presence of pedestrians crossing the street.

Our understanding, based on the installation of ILCWS's in other cities, is that they are a high maintenance installation. However, the proposed agreement provides that the County is only approving of the construction and installation of the ILCWS within the unincorporated area of the intersection and that the City will be responsible for the construction and maintenance and will own the ILCWS.

Vision Alignment

We believe our recommendation is consistent with Shared Vision Commitment of "Leaders work together across boundaries to preserve and enhance the quality of life" and "Ensure Basic Health and Safety for All," as the proposed agreement provides for the construction of a pedestrian facility across a jurisdictional boundary to improve the safety of the residents and school children in this area.

Fiscal Impact

There is no fiscal impact to the General Fund or any other fund of the County as a result of your Board authorizing execution the proposed agreement as Redwood City is agreeing to finance the construction and maintenance of the facility.

A form of resolution and agreement has been approved by County Counsel, and the City will execute the agreement after approval by your Board.