Bulverde to run five traffic speed and sight-distance studies; results could lower limits

Council heard details of a set of traffic studies the city has commissioned to address complaints about high speeds and sight-line problems in several neighborhoods.

Public Works Director Aaron Martinez said the city contracted Fraser Nichols to perform speed, sight-distance and signage studies at five locations, including Casey Road and Barton Hill, Edgebrook (Premier and Marble), Brand Road and Shepherd Road, and Whitey Road. “We’re looking at five different sites throughout the city,” Martinez said, and estimated the package cost at about $32,000.

Martinez said the studies will guide possible changes such as reduced speed limits where engineering data supports the change or installation of additional signage to improve visibility. He emphasized the studies will allow the city to present enforceable findings to law enforcement: “If an engineering study shows it needs to be dropped down to 20 miles an hour, then we’ll have a study to show that the speed limit can be dropped.”

Councilmembers expressed concern about high speeds and asked how the sites were selected; staff said selections were based on constituent reports and staff identification of problem areas. Martinez said the work should take about a month to six weeks and that results will be shared with council when available.