On May 2nd, Key West City Commission will be considering a resolution requesting that FDOT install HAWK – High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk signals on N. Roosevelt. The resolution also suggests the same signals be installed at 3 crosswalks on S. Roosevelt when that project begins. Last Stand has supported installing the HAWK signals in the past and we will be formalizing our comments during the May 1st board meeting.
Here is a link to more information from the vendor that is featured in the backup materials to the commission agenda item.
http://elteccorp.com/warning_systems/hawk-hybrid-pedestrian-crosswalk/
At the May 1 board meeting, Last Stand approved a motion to support the city’s resolution.
This is an urgent safety issue for Key West. We are also recommending that the City Commission allocate funding if FDOT is not ready to immediately install better crosswalk signals. The city has the option to request reimbursement funding from FDOT.
Last Stand followed up with Commissioner Kaufman after the 8-15-17 meeting with the following comments:
Thanks for the follow up questions on installation of HAWK signals for N Roosevelt at the 8-15-17 meeting. You may recall that I wrote you on behalf of Last Stan at the beginning of May when the commission passed a resolution requesting FDOT to take five specific actions, including installation of these signals.
Last Stand remains very concerned about the safety of anyone trying to use the crosswalks for the next five years as FDOT works the request through their funding cycle.
At the beginning of May, Last Stand recommended that the city spend its own funds if there is a delay in funding from FDOT. The time is right now to include these signals in the 2017-18 budget, and take all necessary efforts to seek reimbursement from FDOT for any city funds used. This is an urgent safety issue that needs immediate action from the commission.
Key West City Manager Jim Scholl and Director of Engineering Jim Bouquet reported at the 10-3-17 commission meeting that FDOT could not install the HAWK signals until 2021. There is a route for KW to apply to the Florida Controller’s office to get permission for reimbursement of costs to install. A follow up meeting with FDOT for District 6 planning is scheduled for 10-6-17.
The FDOT representatives indicate expected design costs of $250,000 that will be 8 to 12 months to complete. Construction and installation costs for the 5 crosswalks is projected at $1.5 million.
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Hardeharharhaahah isn’t this government insanity?? A quarter million just to DESIGN the damn crosswalks! Look at the pedestrian-controlled crosswalk at Bayview Park. Two pushbuttons and traffic lights on pole arms. Wow, so complex. The whole project could be done for a quarter million if the city had the talent.