Providing a safe and efficient transportation system for the City of Urbandale involves a number of different initiatives, from traffic signals, to street lighting. The sections below discuss some of the main components of traffic safety.
The City installs traffic signals and signs in accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). This document, produced by the State of Iowa, sets the standards for signals and signs.
Occasionally, the City will be asked to evaluate a street or intersection to consider a change in the regulations. In this case, the City would conduct a traffic study to determine if a change is warranted under the specifications of the MUCTD. (Request a traffic study)
City staff installed 930 traffic signals and signs in FY2001-02.
A well-marked street or highway is safer because motorists and pedestrians can easily see where they are supposed to be on the roadway. Pavement markings include the lines down the middle of the lanes, as well as turn indicators, crosswalks, and stop lines.
The City of Urbandale dedicates about 2,000 hours of staff time annually to re-paint all of the pavement markings in the City at least twice per year.
Additionally, several intersections in Urbandale have recently received new, high-tech pavement markings that are intended to last significantly longer--and remain more visible--than traditional paint markings. The new consist of a thermoplastic material that is applied within recessed areas of pavement. Aurora and Merle Hay, and 86th and Douglas are two intersections where these markings can be seen.
Weather conditions have a great deal of influence over when roadway markings can be applied. Of course, the roadway must be dry, but it also must be above a certain temperature during the paint application and drying process. For this reason, it is not possible to re-paint the pavement markings during the winter, even on dry, sunny days.
Streetlights have a dual purpose in Urbandale.
-
They help to ensure a safe street system for both motorists and pedestrians.
-
They help to reduce crime by lighting up the dark areas where potential criminals like to work.
The City spends over $400,000 per year in energy costs for the City's street light system.