Traffic commission approves multiple signals, all-way stops and downtown metered parking

The Traffic and Transportation Commission on Feb. 16 approved a package of traffic-control changes across the city, voting unanimously to add traffic signals, install all-way stops in several neighborhoods and convert time-limited stalls near Paycom Arena to metered parking.

Commissioners voted to approve the staff-recommended signal and roadway improvements at Eastern Avenue and Beechwood Avenue (including dedicated north- and southbound left-turn lanes) after staff said traffic volumes at a newly opened OnCue driveway met the 8-hour and 4-hour signal warrants when evaluated using the posted 40 mph criterion. Commissioner Hale moved the motion and Commissioner Littlefield seconded; the item passed with all commissioners in favor.

The commission also approved three separate all-way stop requests brought by residents and neighborhood groups. Kristen Bales, representing the Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership and the Midtown Association, told the panel the Midtown Association “is fully supportive of this application for an always stop,” citing driver confusion and pedestrian-safety concerns at the requested intersection north of downtown. Staff said the intersection did not meet the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) criteria but recommended approval provided three parking spaces close to the stop signs are removed; the commission approved the change.

Becky Chapman, representing the Bricktown Association and the Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership, urged installation of an all-way stop at North Oklahoma Avenue and East Main Street because visibility is impaired by angled parking; staff again noted the removal of two parking spaces would be required and the commission approved the measure.

At Brook Hill Drive and 154th Terrace, resident Ed Hamilton submitted a petition showing local support and stressed concerns about schoolchildren and increased construction traffic; staff said traffic volumes on both roadways were nearly balanced and the commission approved the requested control.

On traffic signals, the commission approved a developer-funded signal at Edge Creek Avenue and Northwest 150th Street that consultants project will meet two of nine warrants under future conditions. Commissioners also approved a signal near Northwest 178th Street after residents, led by Charles Nearing speaking on behalf of Max Payne, cited a recent rise in crashes, frequent excessive speeds and school pickup backups. Nearing said residents’ observations and the study showing thousands of vehicles exceed the posted 45 mph limit support signalization; staff noted the intersection did not meet current warrants but recommended approval include roadway widening and dedicated left-turn lanes.

Downtown parking also drew attention. Corey Hubert, parking services manager for Embark, asked to convert time-limited on-street spaces west of Paycom Arena to metered parking to reduce visitor confusion; staff said metered parking is consistent with downtown practices and ADA requirements and the commission approved the conversion. Commissioners asked staff to provide a briefing on the purpose and revenue use for downtown metered parking at a future meeting.

All items on the consent docket — including signal warrant approvals for Wilshire Boulevard and Britton Road as part of the Piedmont Road (State Highway 4) reconstruction submitted by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation — were approved as presented.

The commission adjourned after brief commissioner reports and a request to schedule a presentation on downtown parking policy next month.