Report on Traffic-A & J Prop.Planning Commission Report -
REPORT ON TRAFFIC
A & J PROPOSAL
FOR
WHITE MOTOR PROPERTIES
No.
August 14, 1986
PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to inform the Commission on traffic
problems that may be encountered.
BACKGROUND: The proposal concerns four parcels. Each has traffic flows
that will have to be addressed separately. The southerly
property, Site 'A', never had any occupancy so no historical data is avail-
able. The property between the railroads, Site 'B' was used by Minneapolis -
Moline and had some parking where Reuter Co. is now and more parking north
of the Chicago & Northwestern Railway, where the third parcel, Site 'C' is.
The fourth parcel, Site 'D' is just south of City Hall and will not be re-
viewed at this time.
ANALYSIS: Site 'A'
There is an indication that up to 440 cars will be parked when
the proposed building is fully occupied. Generally, arriving traffic poses
fewer problems then leaving traffic. The flow of traffic from the property
from 4 -6 p.m. will enter Fifth Street South at a peak load. Drivers will
be seeking relief from the backups that would be expected at the controlled
intersection at 6th Avenue and at llth Avenue. It is expected that they
will attempt to use other local streets to avoid these backups. This could
have a negative impact on the neighborhood and should be considered. "No
Turns" onto these local streets at peak times would be one way that could
eliminate this impact. Closing the local streets off from 5th. Street South
would be an undesirable solution.
An exit is shown close to the northeast corner of the property. This exit
is close to the intersection of 7th Avenue South and could pose a problem
in that area. A relocation to the west end of the parking lot may be more
desirable. Any exit to 6th Street South or Seventh Avenue South could have
a negative impact on the neighborhood. Turning radius for trucks will have
to be reviewed for access to bays as shown.
Site 'B'
Parking area is shown for up to 907 cars. Three exits are shown,
two on llth Avenue and one through Site 'C' unto County Road #3 at the 8th
Avenue traffic light. Delays can be expected exiting unto llth Avenue South
This road is a major carrier of traffic into south Hopkins. Backups are
already experienced because of the light at County Road #3.and the railroad
crossing. Left turns to go south on llth Avenue will be difficult because
of the traffic density.
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TRAFFIC REPORT
A & J PROPOSAL
PAGE 2
The southerly exit unto llth Avenue South as shown is close to the intersection
of 5th Street South. This could cause interference and should be studied for a
possible relocation that would allow a greater separation between intersections.
Truck bays are shown at buildings 2, 3 & 4. Turning radius's will have to be
reviewed to see if the parking lots as shown are adequate to handle the truck
traffic.
If a railroad crossing permit is not obtained for the northerly exit, the impact
on llth Avenue South will be greater.
Site 'C'
Parking as shown for the number of cars indicated should not pose
any problems. Entrance on llth Avenue South is in an area of a "right turn lane"
for north bound traffic. The location will have to be reviewed as to the verticle
curve sight distance and the location of opposing driveways.
The joint exit with Site 'B' unto County Road #3 at 8th Avenue South should be
without problems. Adequate waiting storage area is located in the area.
An easement for entry and exit from the City Water Well and Treatment building
and the water tower will have to be a part of any sale of property.
The Engineering firm of Benshoof & Associates has been retained by the developer
to study the traffic impact upon the area. The study is still being conducted so
we have not had an opportunity to see the results of that study.
Res tfully submitted,
ordon P. Anderson
Director of Engineering