Department of Public Works
Reference: Amend Code to Enhance Pedestrian and Traffic Safety
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Michael Martinez, City Manager
Prepared By: Michael Woodruff, Director of Infrastructure
Date Prepared: June 6, 2022
PURPOSE
To protect the safety and welfare of the general public and improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the City of Brighton, staff is presenting City Council with an Ordinance for consideration adding Article 10-15 to the Brighton Municipal Code regarding pedestrians hindering the flow of traffic and enhancing pedestrian and traffic safety.
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA
Safe, Active and Engaged Community
BACKGROUND/HISTORY
There have been numerous concerns from citizens and business owners of pedestrian obstructions and incidents creating public safety hazards at intersections, roadway medians, and rights-of-way. The City Attorney’s Office, Department of Public Works and Police Department have explored numerous options to help protect the safety and welfare of the general public and improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the City by imposing reasonable restrictions while respecting the constitutional right of free speech.
Pedestrian obstructions on roadway medians, at traffic intersections, and in the public roadway is unsafe and hazardous for motorists, pedestrians, and the general public. Obstructions on roadway median strips, at traffic intersections, and in the public roadway increases the risk of motorists becoming distracted from their primary duty to watch traffic, which may result in automobile accidents, pedestrian accidents, congestion and blockage of streets, and delay and obstruction of the free flow of travel, all of which constitute substantial traffic safety problems.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None. Implementation of the proposed ordinance is not expected to impact the City of Brighton Police Department’s resources or budget to investigate and monitor other crimes within the City.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff would recommend approval of the Ordinance that clearly defines the purpose and intent to protect the safety and welfare of the general public and improve the quality of life and economic vitality of the City of Brighton by imposing reasonable restrictions on pedestrian obstructions while respecting the constitutional rights of free speech.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
• Approve the Ordinance at First Reading
• Approve the Ordinance with specific changes
• Deny the Ordinance
• Continue the item to be heard at a later date
ATTACHMENTS
Proposed Ordinance
PowerPoint Presentation