Commission approves all‑way stops near Classen SAS Middle School after neighborhood petitions and staff analysis

The Traffic and Transportation Commission on June 15 approved two neighborhood requests to install all‑way stop control at intersections bounding Classen SAS Middle School to improve safety for students and pedestrians.

Neighborhood petitioner John Chris Wchzen said he lives on the corner of NW 19th and Douglas and described repeated fast-moving traffic and a crash near a student crossing last August. "We've witnessed student drop-off and pickup patterns change and a collision near where children cross," he said, urging consistent four‑corner stops at access points to the school.

Staff presented traffic and speed data and noted an 85th percentile speed of 24 mph and a highest recorded speed of 35 mph during their study. Staff also reported balanced entering volumes at the Douglas/NW 19th location ("just over 1,200 vehicles per day entering on Douglas," staff said) and advised that while MUTCD warrants for an all‑way stop were not strictly met, pedestrian activity and the petitions could support the installations under the 'other factors' designation.

Commissioner Martinez moved to approve both requests; motions were seconded and each item passed on unanimous votes. Staff said they will proceed with implementation, public notice and coordination with school stakeholders.

Next steps: staff will coordinate installation of the all‑way stops, provide public notice and work with the school and neighborhood on timing and signage.