Presenter/Contact
Presenter
Garry Ford, City Engineer
Contact Info
(830) 221-4020 - gford@nbtexas.org
Subject Header
SUBJECT:
Title
Approval of the second and final reading of an ordinance to revise the school speed zone on FM 1863 for the New Braunfels Christian Academy.
Body
BACKGROUND / RATIONALE:
Council District: 3
City Council unanimously approved the first reading of the ordinance to revise the school speed zone on FM 1863 for the New Braunfels Christian Academy.
As a part of a review of the school speed zone ordinances and signage, it was determined that the existing signage for the New Braunfels Christian Academy on FM 1863 is not consistent with the ordinance. The current signs are warning signs, which are not enforceable unless an officer feels there is a safety issue. The proposed regulatory sign with a school zone speed limit of 35 mph can be enforced. The 35 mph speed limit is recommended to be maintained due to the location of the school, operations of FM 1863 and limited pedestrian activity.
Based on the ordinance review, an amendment to the school speed zone in Section 126-138 (a) to move the existing school zone to a newly created Section 126-145 of the City Code of Ordinances is recommended. The New Braunfels Christian Academy was contacted and is supportive of the amendment. Additionally, the Texas Department of Transportation San Antonio District Traffic Office is supportive of the amendment.
ADDRESSES A NEED/ISSUE IN A CITY PLAN OR COUNCIL PRIORITY:
2006 Comprehensive Plan: Transportation Goal 21: Provide a system of convenient and safe transportation facilities through comprehensive, cooperative, and continuing transportation system planning and development.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Traffic control signs cost approximately $135 each. Sufficient funding is available in the FY16-17 approved street and drainage budget.
Recommendation
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Transportation and Traffic Advisory Board unanimously approved the recommendation to City Council to revise the school speed zone on FM 1863 for the New Braunfels Christian Academy on April 13, 2017.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends amending the school speed zone on FM 1863 to a regulatory sign with a school zone speed limit of 35 mph.