Report Prepared by: Steven C. Son, City Engineer, Engineering
Title
SUBJECT: Public Hearing - Potential Introduction of Ordinance 2492, Amending Section 10.16.010, “Speed Limits,” of the Merced Municipal Code
REPORT IN BRIEF
Consider the introduction of Ordinance 2492 amending Section 10.16.010, “Speed Limits,” of the Merced Municipal Code. Amendment to the Speed Limits section consists of modification to speed limits throughout the City.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion introducing Ordinance 2492, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, amending Section 10.16.010, “Speed Limits” of the Merced Municipal Code.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to modifications as conditioned by City Council; or,
3. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
4. Deny.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200 et seq.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Not applicable.
DISCUSSION
The City of Merced conducted its last speed zone study in 2011 and Ordinance No. 2370 was adopted by City Council on June 15, 2011. The current speed zone study has expired which means the Police Department is unable to enforce posted speed limits throughout the city utilizing a radar or a LIDAR.
The City contracted with Omni-Means, LTD to conduct the recent Engineering and Traffic Survey. Omni-Means, LTD offered their recommendation for the new speed limits in the City. Based on Omni-Means’ recommendation and the “California Manual for Setting Speed Limits,” published in 2014 by Caltrans, it states a speed limit can be adjusted no more than 5 miles per hour if the City Engineer or Traffic Engineer can provide valid justification. Based on this guideline, the speed limit at several locations were adjusted because they were in close proximity to a school, residential homes, or the geometry of the road.
For this reason, Staff recommends Council adopt Ordinance 2492 to amend Merced Municipal Code Section 10.16.010, Speed Limits.
History and Past Actions
On January 17, 2017, City Council approved a general fund appropriation in the amount of $100,000 to conduct a speed zone study.
On April 12, 2017, the City of Merced contracted with Omni-Means, LTD to conduct the speed zone study.
On August 6, 2018, City Council set a public hearing date of August 20, 2018, to adopt Ordinance 2492 to amend Section 10.16.010, “Speed Limits.”
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
None at this time.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Redline of Ordinance
2. Ordinance 2492
3. Presentation