From: 	Tom Errico <thomas.errico@tylin.com>
To:	Jean Fraser <JF@portlandmaine.gov>
CC:	David Margolis-Pineo <DMP@portlandmaine.gov>, Katherine Earley <KAS@portlandmaine.gov>, 	Jeremiah Bartlett <JBartlett@portlandmaine.gov>, Jeff Tarling <JST@portlandmaine.gov>
Date: 	12/11/2013 4:13 PM
Subject: 	79 Walnut Street - Munjoy Heights

Jean ‑ I have reviewed the revised plans and offer the following final comments as a status report of my November 20, 2013 comments.

*       The woonerf design of the roadway sections is acceptable and I believe it will be effective in attaining the 	goal of a shared use facility.  There appears to be some locations where bollards have been added and 	feedback on the need should be provided.

Status: The bollards will create maintenance difficulties, but I find conditions to be acceptable.

*       How visitor parking is accommodated on site needs further consideration given that the parking spaces will 	be located where pedestrian activity is expected to be high.

Status: The general location of the parking spaces is acceptable although I support adjusting the locations to better integrate with the stairs leading to the Jack Trail and East Cove Street.

*        The applicant should provide information on the radii size at Walnut Street and whether a smaller configuration will work.

Status: It is recommended that the radii be eliminated from the plans and standard tip down curbing be provided.  This change deviates for City standards, but I support a waiver from our technical standards to allow for optimal sidewalk alignment along Walnut Street and to ensure easier routing of sidewalk snow plows (this subject sidewalk is a school walking route and maintenance and function are a priority).

*        A crosswalk on Walnut Street between the site drive and Sheridan Street should be considered.  It is suggested that the City's Crosswalk Committee review this location and render a decisions on a crosswalk and supporting treatment.  Accordingly, the project may need to incorporate inclusion of a crosswalk.

Status: The applicant may be required to install a crosswalk on Walnut Street between their driveway and Sheridan Street.  The request for a crosswalk will be reviewed by the City's Crosswalk Committee in assessing the appropriateness of a crosswalk at the subject location.  If deemed to be required by the Crosswalk Committee, the applicant will be responsible for the installation of the crosswalk with supporting features.  These supporting features may include (in addition to paint markings and signs) lights for safe illumination, ADA compliant ramps, curb extensions, etc. If required, the applicant will be responsible for submitting a plan to DPS for review and approval.

*       The City plows the sidewalk on Walnut Street in conjunction with the school walking needs.  Accordingly, 	the driveway entrance area will need to accommodate City sidewalk plows.  The applicant shall coordinate 	with DPS on this issue.

Status: As noted above, tip‑down curbing shall be installed and accordingly this issue has been addressed. Final plans shall be reviewed and approved by DPS.

*        The stairs to the Jack Path should also include a ramping system for bicycles.

Status: The plans have been revised and I have no further comment.

*        I have reviewed the traffic analysis report prepared by Bill Bray, P.E. and concur with the conclusions that the project will not cause traffic or safety problems to the public street system.  The City has received a comment regards high vehicles speeds on Walnut Street.  I will provide a response to this issue in the future.

Status: The grade of Walnut Street is such that speeds are likely high when traveling from North Street to Washington Street.  The City has studied this area from a traffic perspective for many years and specific traffic safety deficiencies have not been identified.  The City will continue to review traffic conditions.  No action is required of the applicant.

New Comment

*       Vehicles shall be prohibited from parking in front of garages for units 1 through 11 due to 	encroachment into the 20‑foot circulation required by the Fire Department.  I will leave it to other 	City staff to best determine how to ensure this restriction is noted.

If you have any questions or comments please contact me.

Best regards,

Thomas A. Errico, PE
Senior Associate
Traffic Engineering Director
[T.Y. Lin International]T.Y. Lin International
12 Northbrook Drive
Falmouth, ME 04105
207.781.4721 main
207.347.4354 direct
207.400.0719 mobile
207.781.4753 fax
thomas.errico@tylin.com
Visit us online at www.tylin.com
Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube

"One Vision, One Company"

Please consider the environment before printing.