The NOACA Governing Board approved the following project for inclusion in the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) by adopting Resolution No. 2003-024 on March 14, 2003.

Title: Traffic Signal Improvements along SR-306, in Kirtland, Willoughby and Mentor
Sponsor:  City of Willoughby (lead agency)
Estimated Total Cost: $437,000
Proposed Source of Federal Funds: NOACA

History/Background:
The Willoughby City Council passed Resolution No. 2002-169, authorizing the City to apply for NOACA attributable funds to fund a project to upgrade signals along SR-306, on October 1, 2002.

Current Conditions:
The signals along SR-306 (Reynolds Road) are not interconnected. The current system does not provide progression, causing delay. Without progression, vehicles are forced to travel the arterial with stop-and-go movement. The average daily traffic along SR-306 is between 20,200 and 26,550 (2001 traffic count). SR-306 is functionally classified as an other principal arterial. The Great Lakes Mall, Erie Commons and Lakeland Community College are significant trip generators located within two miles of the SR-306 project area in addition to I-90 interchange.

Proposed Project:
This project involves the replacement of traffic signals along SR-306 at the intersections of Kirtland Road and Clocktower Drive in Kirtland, the I-90 eastbound ramp in Willoughby and the I-90 westbound ramp in Mentor. These signals will be interconnected. The pavement markings will also be revised along the area. The construction will include new signal supports, controllers, signal heads, pedestrian heads, loop detectors and the appropriate wiring. The interconnect will run underground within the four intersections.

As part of the proposed closed loop signal system, parameters will be developed to assist the master controller to select the correct signal timing pattern for the traffic volumes being served.

The total cost of the signal work is estimated at $437,000 ($349,600 – CMAQ or STP; $87,400 – Willoughby).

Staff Comment (Summary):

• Though these intersections will include pedestrian signals, improving pedestrian safety and mobility, the sponsor should include sound actuated pedestrian signals for the visually impaired.
• Evaluation of air quality impacts potential for reduced delays could be of value in determining which Federal highway funding source such as Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) funds or Surface Transportation Program (STP) funds would be most appropriate.
Eligibility for CMAQ funding will require an analysis from the sponsor demonstrating pollutant emission reduction as a result of the project.
• The signal at Clocktower Drive serves traffic for Lakeland Community College and Laketran’s park and ride lot.
• Pedestrian needs appear to have been considered. The project should also consider bicyclists needs.
• This project serves neither an urban core class community nor primary environmental justice (E.J.) population.
• Recommend committee and public review with consideration of staff comments.