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To: The OFBPA Community
From: Donna Bethke, President
Re: The SHA Belair Road Streetscape Safety & Enhancement Public
Meeting was held 10/10
Date: 10/11/07
It was good to see a good turnout by the business and residential
communities yesterday evening and those who had not got a chance to see
the project plan got to see the scope of what the task force has been
working on for the past two years.The SHA has worked very heard on your
behalf and we have completed the "Concept Phase". The public meeting was
one more step in the process and we now move forward to the Design
Phase.
HOWEVER, our project will compete with approx. 56 other projects in the
SHA. There are currently 33 projects of which 16 have been funded for
construction. Ours will be measured against other SHA projects and the
following factors come into play:
* Business and Community Support
* Support of our elected officials
* Support from Baltimore County
* Current traffic and safety concerns
* Cost of the project.
The SHA came to us with this proposal. I feel that this project is not a
matter of "what if" , but more of a "when". I feel that we will get the
approval of Baltimore County as this ties in with the County Executive's
initiatives on the revitalization efforts on going across the county
currently. We know we have the support of our elected officials by the
attendance of Senator Kathy Klausmeier, Delegates Eric Bromwell and Joe
Boteler and Council Joe Bartenfelder.
WHAT DO I NEED FROM YOU:
All we're asking is that you fill out the form,
check the box "concept design as presented" (and all minutes
are posted on the OFBPA website and I have a hard copy of the plans as
well as a CD if anyone would like to see it) and send back to the SHA
ASAP.
Remember this is just approval of the overall concept for the
improvements on the Belair Road corridor from the Beltway to the
city/county line. The design phase will address each property
individually in how it will relate to the over all project, and take in
to consideration any impact it will have to the corridor.
The more support we show for moving this
project forward, the better shot we have of seeing our project getting
funded. SO PLEASE TAKE 1 MINUTE and send your form to the SHA. Please
share this form/email with as many people you know on the corridor as
the more input we have from as many different entities is a plus!
I have copies if you can not open the file attached.
The SHA has asked everyone to fill out the form and mail/fax it back by
October 24th.
THEIR FAX # is not on the form, but it is
410-321-2866.
Sincerely,
DONNA
Please
click this link to open the Maryland State Highway Administration's
Questions and/or Comments form.
Print form - fill in and fax to 410-321-2866 or mail. To mail, use
contact information at the bottom of the form.
US 1 Community, Safety and Enhancement Project
US 1 from Baltimore City Line to I-695 Interchange
Task Force Meeting No. 5 – 07/25/07
The fifth Task Force meeting was held on July 25,
2007 in the Rosedale Library located at 6105 Kenwood Avenue, Baltimore,
Maryland. The following were in attendance:
Name Affiliation
Senator Katherine Klausmeier Senate of Maryland
Ms. Donna Bethke Overlea/Fullerton Business &
Professional Assoc.
Mr. Jeff Stintz Overlea Community Assoc. (OCA)
Mr. Bud Herb Linover Improvement Assoc.
Ms. Carroll Pupa Linover Improvement Assoc.
Ms. Ginny Student Elmwood-Belmar Park Com. Assoc.
Mr. Marcus Ritgert Resident, Linover Improvement
Assoc.
Ms. Shirley Citro Resident, Linover Improvement
Assoc.
Mr. David Weiford Resident, Linover Improvement
Assoc.
Ms. Naomi Weiford Resident, Linover Improvement
Assoc.
Ms. Linda Weimer Booster Newspaper
Ms. Amy Lookingbill The Avenue News
Mr. Phil Humbertson SHA District 4 – Assistant
District Engineer –
Project Development
Ms. Denise Magee SHA District 4 – ESDT
Ms. Wendy Wolcott SHA District 4 – Chief, ESDT
Mr. Winston Bain SHA District 4 – ESDT
Mr. Donald Distance SHA District 4 – Traffic
Mr. Frances Ward SHA District 4 – Community Liaison
Mr. Eric Lincoln District 4 – RME - Golden Ring
Maintenance Shop
Ms. Jill Lemke City of Baltimore – Department of
Planning
Mr. Raymond Heil Baltimore County – Office of Community
Conservation
Mr. Darrell Wiles Baltimore County –
Traffic/Transportation
Ms. Kirsten Coffen Garden Architecture, LLC –
Consultant
Mr. Anthony Frascarella Century Engineering –
Consultant
Mr. Joshua Dupee Century Engineering – Consultant
Introductions, Review of Project Scope and Process:
Phil Humbertson, the Assistant District Engineer for Project
Development at District 4, opened the meeting by welcoming everyone and
thanking them for their participation in the Task Force. Mr. Humbertson
introduced key SHA representatives. Task Force members introduced
themselves followed by other SHA representatives, County
representatives, and the design consultants. Senator Klausmeier spoke
briefly and thanked everyone for their participation and support of the
project.
Mr. Humbertson gave an overview of the Task Force process and
explained the need for the Task Force’s consensus to approve the Concept
Phase of the project. The next step would be a community meeting where
the project scope will be voted on once again. Once the concept has the
support of the community and the local elected officials, it would then
be submitted to SHA’s list of streetscape project across Maryland where
it will compete for funding.
Discussion of Project Issues and Potential Goals:
Tony Frascarella, from Century Engineering, Inc., and Kirsten Coffen,
from Garden Architecture, LLC, presented the revised concept. Mr.
Frascarella reviewed the project and the concept development process.
The revised final concept included field surveys/mapping, concept plans
(11 aerial plan sheets), photo renderings (2 locations) and five special
area vignettes. Mr. Frascarella and Ms. Coffen continued the
presentation by explaining key points of interest along the project
corridor. The following is a summary of the presentation:
Plan Sheet #1 (US 1: From Fleetwood Avenue to 75’
North of Maple Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: Bumpouts have been added at all applicable
areas. Bumpouts will provide a traffic calming effect by
narrowing the roadway as well as protecting on-street parking
and protecting pedestrians walking through this corridor. The
blue line on the sheet indicates the "Main Street" area where
the primary focus will be on a pedestrian friendly
environment. In the "Main Street" area, head-in parking was
suggested at the Task Force meeting #4 and analyzed. The space
requirements associated with head-in parking would allow only
one lane in each direction along Belair Road. However, due to
the significant volume of traffic through the project
corridor, two through lanes are required in each direction on
Belair Road, thus eliminating the concept of head-in parking.
Ms. Coffen: This area has been recognized as the gateway to
the Overlea community. A minimum of five foot wide sidewalk,
consisting of one surface type, is required for SHA ADA
compliancy. Thus, decorative paving is shown outside of this
five foot requirement. Upgrades to street furnishings and trash
receptacles, as well as replacement of street trees, are also
being shown in the vignette.
The Community Gateway Plaza at Fleetwood Avenue vignette
was explained. Adding a new community sign with decorative
plantings, lighting, and paving would further beautify this
location. Improvements to the corner section in front of the
Rosedale Federal Bank will require coordination with the property
owner. SHA will work with the community and property owners to
create and fund these types of improvements.
Plan Sheet #2 (US 1: From 75’ North of Maple
Avenue to 75’ South of Willow Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: Bumpouts were requested on the south and
west corners of the intersection of Overlea Avenue and Belair
Road. A bumpout on the west corner was not applicable because
it would be in direct conflict with bus turning movements into
the Overlea Bus Station. A bumpout on the south corner has
been included in the concept design.
The realignment of Overlea Avenue from the northwest was
analyzed and deemed not a viable option because of the grade
differential and the impacts to the Overlea Bus Station.
Ms. Coffen: The Overlea Bus Station generates large volumes
of pedestrian activity. Adding a formliner stone veneer finish
on the existing retaining wall and decorative paving would
further beautify this location. A focus should be to increase
seating to wait for transit buses. In front of the Wachovia
Bank, benches could be added, as well as landscaping, to soften
the hard impact of the parking lot.
Plan Sheet #3 (US 1: From 75’ South of
Willow Avenue up to Industrial Transmission of Power)
Mr. Frascarella: No widening is occurring; SHA ADA
compliant crosswalks, re-aligned ramps, and sidewalks are
being proposed. New curb and gutter would be constructed in
the existing locations. The "Flag In The Air" signal will be
installed on the St. Michael’s corner of Willow Avenue and
Belair Road.
Mr. Distance: Notice to Proceed construction of the "Flag In
The Air" signal has been given to the contractor. Construction
is on schedule and should be completed before the beginning of
the school year. If construction is delayed, notification will
be given as to the change in schedule. This signal will be
controlled by either a designated crossing guard or a school
appointed controller.
Ms. Coffen: The "Main Street" area has been extended to
Madeline Avenue and Walnut Avenue because of a Task Force member
request after the 4th task force meeting. Landscape
buffer has been included in front of the Auto Sales property.
Plan Sheet #4 (US 1: From Industrial
Transmission of Power to 130’ South of Fullerton Court Drive)
Mr. Frascarella: On this sheet, we are transitioning out of
the "Main Street" area. Drainage improvements and a potential
stormwater management facility are being proposed. As per Task
Force recommendation, the traffic barrier will be recessed and
hidden by landscaping features.
Ms. Coffen: Various plantings and fences will
be used to emphasize a "Green Corridor."
Plan Sheet #5 (US 1: From 130’ South of
Fullerton Court Drive to Entrance of Taylor Plaza)
Mr. Frascarella: An approximate 150’ extension of the
center turning lane to include Fullerton Court Drive has been
included in the design. This will act as a storage area to aid
drivers turning onto southbound Belair Road from Fullerton
Court Drive. This will also protect drivers turning onto
Fullerton Avenue by removing them from through traffic on
northbound Belair Road.
As per a Task Force member request, an exclusive right turn
lane into Fullerton Court Drive was analyzed. After completing
traffic counts, the construction of a right turn lane was not
warranted.
Lane Shift Analysis
Mr. Frascarella: Century’s proposed design widens Belair
Road equally on both sides. A comment received after the 4th
Task Force meeting asked for an analysis of an alternative
lane shift in front of the Lassahn Funeral Home. In the
current design, impacts are split between the west side of
Belair Road and the east side of Belair Road. A lane shift of
an additional five feet to the northwest was analyzed. The
impacts would be as follows: retaining walls would increase in
height and location on the west side and the Taylor Plaza
entrance off of Belair Road would likely have to be closed due
to the steep grades in excess of 14% (5-6% is an average,
acceptable driveway grade). Also, excessive grading impacting
adjacent properties would occur. In general, the results of
studying possible alignment shifts are that splitting the
widening on both sides would likely have less overall impacts
to adjacent properties. The widening in this area will be
examined in greater detail in the design phase.
Taylor Avenue Roundabout Analysis
Mr. Frascarella: The Task Force received a comment which
asked for an analysis of a roundabout at Taylor Avenue.
Century analyzed the traffic volumes for this intersection and
found that the smallest dimension for a roundabout that would
work would be a 150’ diameter, two lane roundabout. A
roundabout this size could not fit at this location without
major impacts to the local businesses. Also, roundabout design
and construction typically costs many times more than a signal
upgrade.
Plan Sheet #6 (US 1: From Entrance of Taylor
Plaza up to Pete’s Cycle)
Mr. Frascarella: Based on a Task Force request, an improved
right turn lane onto Fullerton Avenue has been incorporated in
the concept design. This turn lane will improve existing bus
turning issues.
Ms. Coffen: The Community Sign Area at Fullerton Avenue
vignette was explained. It showed the new community
organizations’ sign as well as flowering trees, decorative brick
paving, and a retaining wall to create a level sign terrace that
would further beautify this location.
Fullerton Avenue Roundabout Analysis
Mr. Frascarella: Since the Taylor Avenue roundabout was not
feasible, Century decided to look at the intersection that
geometrically had the most potential. The intersection of
Fullerton Avenue and Belair Road consists of an open lot to
the northwest.
Once again, based on traffic volumes, the smallest
dimension for a roundabout that would work would be a 150’
diameter, 2 lane roundabout. However, in this location, the
roundabout would significantly impact the Midori Japanese &
Chinese Restaurant property, the Paintless Dent Removal
property and the Getaway property. Extensive grading and the
use of retaining walls would be required due to the grade
differential in this area.
Plan Sheets #7-9 (US 1: From Pete’s Cycle up to
Carabba’s Italian Grill)
Mr. Frascarella: Utility poles in the project corridor will
be relocated outside of the sidewalk to achieve SHA ADA
compliance. No other specific changes came from the Task Force
for these three sheets. The design remained the same as when
presented at the Task Force #4 meeting.
Ms. Coffen: Deteriorating conditions through this area are
creating a harsh environment. The Parking Lot Buffer at Bingo
Hall vignette was explained. Adding plantings and relocating
a commercial sign would further enhance this location.
Plan Sheet #10 (US 1: From Carabba’s Italian
Grill to Fowler Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: No specific changes came from the Task
Force for these three sheets. The design remained the same as
when presented in the Task Force #4 meeting.
Plan Sheet #11 (US 1: From Fowler Avenue to
Overton Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: A recent Task Force comment asked SHA to
contact local law enforcement about the illegal u-turn
movement. This issue has been passed on to local law
enforcement.
Drainage issues in this location will be
resolved in the design phase.
Ms. Coffen: The Community Gateway Sign at I-695
Interchange vignette was explained. Adding a new community
sign as well as flowering trees, ornamental grasses, perennial
flowers, and a retaining wall to create a level sign terrace,
would further beautify this location. No comments were received
from the Task Force Meeting #4 for this vignette.
Summary of Project Information
Mr. Frascarella: This project would require the relocation
of approximately 60 utility poles,
7 fire hydrants, 6 traffic signal modifications, and 2,200
linear feet of retaining/decorative walls.
Summary of Open Discussion
After the presentation, Mr. Humbertson opened the
discussion to questions and comments.
Additional questions or comments after this meeting can be sent to
Wendy Wolcott at
wwolcott@sha.state.md.us or Winston Bain at
wbain@sha.state.md.us.
Comment: 35 mph speed limit should be reduced because this
is a transition area. A reduced speed limit of 25-30 mph is
better. Current speeds are too high to jumpstart commercial
revitalization. Mr. Humbertson and Mr. Distance responded that
speed limits are based on the 85th percentile and based
on field studies, the 85th percentile speed on US 1 (Belair
Road) is 45 mph. The existing posted speed of 35 mph is already
lower than the 85th percentile speed. The law states
that SHA can change the existing speed to 45 mph, but chose not to
increase the speed limit. Once the design has been fully
constructed, speed studies will be conducted to determine if the
improvements warrant lowering of the posted speed limit. During
the design, speed limit reduction signs can be posted as drivers
move closer to the City Line.
Question: Are any areas wider than 5’ that we can further
widen the sidewalk? Mr. Humbertson said that in areas where
existing sidewalk is up to the face of the building, the entire
sidewalk will be replaced upon gaining the property owners’
approval. Coordination with property owners will be vital. Ms.
Coffen states that in the "Main Street" area, a minimum 5’
sidewalk must be kept for SHA ADA compliance.
Comment: People are making left turns out of the Overlea Sub
Shop which is creating a very dangerous condition at the nearby
traffic signal. This issue will be addressed in the design
phase.
Comment: Rosedale Federal is concerned about parking space
loss. Mr. Frascarella recognizes this issue and requests
coordination with Rosedale Federal Bank during the design phase.
Question: Is it possible to use a surface treatment such as
stamped concrete or decorative pavers in the crosswalk? Mr.
Humbertson said that SHA has had prior experience doing such
treatments and will consider doing so in the design phase.
Question: Can the Spruce Street intersection with Belair
Road be squared up to ease turning movements? Mr. Humbertson
said that this is an issue that will be addressed in the design
phase. Century has already improved the turning radius at this
location by designing a bumpout.
Question: Senator Klausmeier asked if ideas can still be
submitted at a later date.
Mr. Humbertson said absolutely.
Question: Ray Heil asked if bumpouts can be added in front
of the Overlea Bus Station. Mr. Frascarella said the Overlea
Bus Station is over maximum capacity. Buses use the additional
lane in front of the Bus Station to park when the Station is full.
Also, placing bumpouts in this area would prohibit bus turning
movements into the Station.
Question: Could Overlea Avenue be changed to one way
wesbound so the traffic signal on Belair Road could be removed?
Mr. Humbertson said that this is an issue that will be addressed
in the design phase. A few Task Force members were opposed to this
concept.
Question: Ray Heil asked if all street trees will be
removed? Ms. Coffen said that the majority of the trees along
this project corridor are stressed and in bad shape. The longer
this project takes to complete, the more trees will have to be
removed and replaced.
Question: What is stressing the trees? Ms. Coffen said
that urban trees have a shorter life expectancy due to the harsh
conditions the trees reside in. Increasing the tree pit size would
increase the life expectancy of the trees.
Question: Can the lane directly in front of the Overlea Bus
Station be designated a Bus Only Lane? Mr. Humbertson and Mr.
Frascarella said that this lane will remain a combination lane for
the right turners and buses. Bumpouts placed further ahead will
prevent this lane from being used by drivers to jump ahead in
times of a traffic backup.
Question: With the addition of the National Historical
Society in this area, traffic will increase at the intersection of
Chesley Avenue and Belair Road. Can Chesley Avenue be realigned to
possibly make this Avenue bi-directional and add a traffic signal
in the future? Mr. Humbertson said that realignment of Chesley
Avenue is a Baltimore County issue. If the roadway is realigned,
SHA will study this intersection for signal warrants. Ms. Wolcott
said improvements that individual property owners would like to do
can be initiated independently from this project. Property owners
would work with the County and SHA Access Permits Division as
appropriate. Approved improvements would then be coordinated with
the streetscape concept.
Question: Who will run the Flag In The Air signal? Mr.
Distance said an official crossing guard or an appointed person
from St. Michael’s School would control the signal. This signal
will be timed with nearby traffic signals for optimal performance.
Comment: There is a sight distance problem at the Manor
Avenue and Belair Road intersection. Mr. Humbertson said that
this is an issue that will be addressed in the design phase.
Comment: Mr. Humbertson then asked the Task Force members to
please remember that this is a concept, not the design phase. Mr.
Humbertson asked the group of Task Force members to think about if
they were in agreement with the overall concept plan.
Comment: Carroll Pupa said that the left turn onto Taylor
Avenue was not a good design choice and asked if we could take it
out. Mr. Humbertson said that the Task Force members had
requested the addition of a left turning lane. Mr. Distance
followed up stating that at this intersection, there are a high
number of left turn accidents. A left turn lane and a green turn
arrow are needed for safer traffic operations.
Comment: Bud Herb said the right turn lane at Fullerton
Avenue should be looked into again. The turn lane is having a
negative effect on the Midori Restaurant property. Mr.
Humbertson said another look will be given. Mr. Distance said that
all traffic signals will be timed to work the best with each other
to optimize the traffic movement through this corridor. The right
turn lane at this location allows turning vehicles to slow down
and make a right turn without further impacting through traffic.
Comment: Ray Heil said he speaks for the Lassahn Funeral
Home when he says that widening will damage their business and
that the Lassahn Funeral Home prefers all widening to happen on
the other side of the road. Mr. Humbertson said that widening
exclusively on one side of the road would severely impact other
properties. It is not realistic to ask the property owners on the
west side of Belair road to bear all the impacts of improving this
corridor.
Question: Is it possible to give Lassahn Funeral Home a
traffic signal controller? Mr. Humbertson said that it is not
likely and current practices of traffic control during funerals
are working fine for them.
Question: Is the goal of the left turn at Taylor Avenue to
eliminate traffic turning at Fuller Avenue and using that as a
bypass? Mr. Humbertson said that goal is not completely true.
The new signal/intersection upgrades will provide a safer turning
movement at Taylor Avenue. Drivers will want to take Taylor
instead of using Fuller Avenue as a bypass. It is unrealistic to
say that SHA will eliminate traffic using the bypass.
Ms. Wolcott suggested that when the Concept is taken to the
community, it can be noted that while the Task Force recognizes
the safety and operational needs for the turn lanes, they also
recognize the property impacts associated with any widening in
those areas. Therefore, the turn lanes should be studied further
in the design phase. The Task Force members were in consensus that
this would be an appropriate way to present the turn lane concepts
to the community.
Question: Mr. Humbertson asked the Task Force Members if
they thought the roundabouts were not feasible for this project
corridor. The audience agreed that no further analysis was
needed and that roundabouts will not be an option for this
corridor.
Question: Ray Heil asked why the improvements to the right
turn lane onto Fullerton Avenue are being proposed if the buses
are making this turn already without any problems? Mr.
Humbertson said that the Task Force had asked SHA to review this
intersection to improve bus turning movements. Also, SHA is not
putting in a new turning lane; only widening the roadway for the
lane in the center. The right turn lane already exists.
Question: Ray Heil asked why not make buses turn from the
through lane? Mr. Distance said turning volumes warrant a turn
lane at this location. There are a large number of PM peak period
turning vehicles. Improvements to the turning radius would
potentially allow the stop bar on Fullerton Avenue to be brought
closer to the traffic signal. Mr. Darrell Wiles noted that the
right turn lane was originally constructed to reduce the chance of
gridlock between the signals that are in close proximity. Mr.
Humbertson said that the Taylor Avenue to Fullerton Avenue roadway
design can be re-evaluated during the design phase.
Comment: Carol Pupa has concerns about southbound US 1
traffic making left turns into the shopping plaza that contains
Battery Warehouse, Lifeway Christian Stores and Signs By Tomorrow.
Mr. Humbertson said that the geometrics of the island can be
modified to eliminate this movement. Mr. Distance pointed out that
it is the shopping center’s responsibility to sign for this
problem and that private signs cannot be placed in the SHA’s right
of way.
Comment: Bud Herb mentioned the ongoing u-turn problem near
Overton Avenue. Mr. Humbertson said that this issue has
already been brought to the local law enforcement’s attention. It
is their responsibility to address it.
Closing Remarks and Next Steps:
Phil Humbertson then asked the Task Force to vote on approval of the
proposed concept offered at the meeting. The vote results were: 6 yes, 0
no. The proposed geometrics have been approved by the Task Force and
will be presented to the Overlea community including the Taylor Avenue
shift/no shift impacts. Traffic related issues will also be further
explored in the Taylor Avenue and Fullerton Avenue areas.
Bud Herb asked if the drainage issues have been resolved on the
project corridor. Mr. Humbertson explained that SHA maintenance from the
Golden Ring Shop will continue its scheduled services for the US 1
Belair Road corridor.
Mr. Humbertson explained the upcoming project milestones to the Task
Force. First, meeting minutes will be created and distributed. Second,
letters will be sent out to elected officials, Dennis German, and Kirk
McClelland as to the project progress and current status. Third, a
community meeting will be held where the project will be put to another
vote. If the design concept is approved at the community meeting, the
concept must then be supported by the local elected officials. The
project would then be added to the State’s list of streetscape projects
where it will compete for funding.
Jill Lemke mentioned that the City of Baltimore currently has funds
scheduled for the 2009 fiscal year to do design work on the portion of
US 1 Belair Road within the City limits. Ms. Lemke asked Mr. Humbertson
if this puts the City of Baltimore behind the SHA’s current project
schedule. Mr. Humbertson stated that the future project schedule is
uncertain at this point.
Phil Humbertson closed the meeting by thanking everyone for coming
out tonight and sharing their views and time participating in the Task
Force. If anyone has any comments about these concepts, they should
contact Winston Bain (410-321-2868) or Wendy Wolcott (410-321-2851).
cc: Attendees
Task Force Members
Minutes of Task Force members and business leaders Mini-meeting on
July 19th in preparation for the SHA Streetscape Task Force 5th
Meeting on July 25th.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Some of the Task Force members and business leaders along Main Street
in Overlea and along the Belair Road corridor met at 1:30 PM on Thursday
July 19 at St. Michael the Archangel School building. They reviewed,
discussed and came to a consensus on the major SHA comments.
In attendance:
Community – Bud Herb and Carroll Pupa and Al Bethke, Linover
Improvement Assn; Jeff Stintz, Overlea Community Assn and Delegate Todd
Schuler, resident of Elmwood. (Mitch Graham, Elmwood Belmar Community
Association unable to attend.
Business Association – Donna Bethke, Overlea-Fullerton Business &
Professional Assn.
Business Leaders
Main Street (Madeline to Fleetwood Avenue) - John DeAngelis, Buck
Fowler Tavern; Dave Liebman, Kaye’s Pharmacy and Charlie Davis, Natural
Science Society of Maryland.
Unable to attend Jeff Barrett, Rosedale Federal; Frank DelGuercio,
Wachovia and Mike Stappler, Overlea Properties.
Madeline Avenue to Fullerton Avenue – Tim Gardner, KLNB, representing
Ed Koplin, Overlea Professional Office Center and Fred Lassahn, Lassahn
Funeral Home. Unable to attend Brian McCloskey, The McCloskey Group and
Bob Hoffman, Thermo Sash.
Along the Belair Road corridor – Emil Pielke.
County Representative – Ray Heil, Revitalization Manager,
Baltimore County Community Conservation
After introductions, Ray Heil started the discussion that he thought
the Task Force members should have a consensus on their comments before
next Wednesday’s SHA meeting on the 25th of July. He cannot
speak for all of us but he had some concerns on SHA’s comments,
especially on Main Street that he is willing to talk about. He thought
it would be more effective to show up at the SHA meeting with a united
voice on the issues the community (Residential and Business) really
cares about.
The group attending agreed on the following:
- Propose SHA reduce the speed limit from 35 mph to 25 – 30 mph on
Main Street Area from Fleetwood to Madeline Avenues. Need speeds
reduced when entering a transition area such as a heavy pedestrian
zone of shops, grocery store, bakery, sidewalk cafes, restaurants,
nearby schools, natural science museum, etc. in the future commercial
revitalization in the Downtown area of Overlea.
Comments from SHA from Task Force responses from February 21st
meeting: The 35 MPH speed limit is reasonable and realistic for this
corridor. 2 bump outs are being removed between Fleetwood Avenue to
75’ North of Maple Avenue.
- Fleetwood Avenue to Northern Parkway - add bump outs on both sides
of Belair Road. Rosedale Federal property, both corners of the main
bank building where parking already exists and allow drop off of
handicap patrons at the front entrance. Also treat the highly visible
space on the corner of Fleetwood Avenue and Spruce Street as the
entrance to Baltimore County…Welcome to Baltimore County Overlea/Fullerton
Sign perhaps. On the Buck Fowler Tavern corner, add bump out at the
pedestrian crossing. Also introduce no left turn from alleyway out of
the rear parking lot behind Pizza Hut. Problem also not enough walk
time for pedestrians at this crossing.
- Northern Parkway to Overlea/Maple Avenue – add bump out from West
Overlea Avenue corner of the Bus Turnaround to entrance of southbound
buses left into circle. It will create a larger pedestrian sidewalk.
Also look at reconfiguration of W. Overlea Avenue.
Previous SHA comments. The short storage lane in front of
Chuckles Bar and Grill would be removed to increase pedestrian
safety. Coordination with property owner is needed to determine an
alternate method of accommodating delivery vehicles.
- Overlea/Maple Avenue to Willow Avenue – look at reconfiguration of
W. Overlea Avenue and also realignment of Willow and Chesley Avenues
and adding a traffic signal. Again, need transition area into Main
Street to be pedestrian friendly with all the pedestrian traffic that
will be created by the commercial revitalization efforts.
Previous SHA comments. The short storage lane in from of Chuckles
Bar and Grill would be removed to increase pedestrian safety.
Coordination with the property owners is needed to determine an
alternate method of accommodating delivery vehicles. SHA is
constructing the "Flag in the Air" flasher sometime this summer at
the St. Michael School. Current posted speed limit of 35 miles per
hour will remain. Decorative paving will be transitioned out from
Madeline Avenue north. Decorative paving will only be used at
signalized intersections to further emphasize their importance.
Various plantings and fences will be used to emphasize a "Green
Corridor"
- Left Turn Lane at Taylor Avenue – Taking of property on the east
side of Belair Road (Lassahn Funeral Home) would be detrimental to
business establishment and working with southwestern quadrant property
owners would be beneficial since there is more space. As a suggestion
for the short range, add left turn signal at Taylor Avenue and
synchronize lights with Fullerton Avenue.
- From entrance of Taylor Plaza up to Pete’s Cycle – An improved
right turn lane onto Fullerton Avenue is not necessary to improve
existing bus turning issues. Also, the Community Sign Area at
Fullerton Avenue with new sign, flowering trees, decorative brick
paving and a retaining wall to create a level sign terrace might
further beautify this location, but adding a pocket park is
questionable with all the traffic.
- More trees along the Belair Road Streetscape corridor along with
various plantings and fences to emphasize a "Green Corridor" and help
with traffic calming.
- Belair Fowler Shopping Center (opposite Belair Beltway Shopping
Center) – Investigate eliminating right turn into the middle of Belair
Fowler Shopping Center on Belair Road side. Already have no left turns
into Belair Beltway Shopping Center at Carrabba’s Italian Grill from
the southbound lanes.
Meeting adjourned at 3:15 PM
US 1 Community, Safety and Enhancement Project
US 1 from Baltimore City Line to I-695 Interchange
Additional Comments Received Via Email
4/2/07
Buck Fowler - wants to keep the 3 parking spaces they currently have.
St.Michael's-- asked why brick paving was not extending all the way
across the front of their property- down to Madeline Avenue.
Rosedale Federal Bank- concerned about losing parking spaces they have
currently.
Wachovia Bank- would not be in favor of trees in front of their ATM
machine.
Lassahn’s Concerned about changes to frontage of their property.
SHA’s Responses to Comments:
Existing parking spaces to remain during the planning phase.
Brick paving will be extended across St. Michael’s Property.
General Task Force consensus is to create a pedestrian friendly Main
Street Zone. Allowing parking on the sidewalk is not a safe or
recommended practice. Sidewalk bump outs have been included in the
design to better protect the current on-street parking configuration.
Direct input from business owners is appreciated and will be strongly
considered in the design phase.
US 1 Community, Safety and Enhancement Project
US 1 from Baltimore City Line to I-695 Interchange
Task Force Meeting No. 4 – 02/21/07
The fourth Task Force meeting was held on February 21, 2007 in the
Rosedale Library located at 6105 Kenwood Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland.
The following were in attendance:
Name Affiliation
Mr. Jeff Barrett Rosedale Federal
Mr. Jay Perskie Perskie Photographics
Ms. Linda Weimer Booster Newspaper
Ms. Marilyn Fisher Resident, Citizens on Patrol (COP)
Ms. Donna Bethke Resident, Overlea/Fullerton Business &
Professional Assoc.
Mr. Ralph Secoura Resident, Overlea Community Assoc. (OCA)
Mr. Curt Phillips Resident, Overlea Community Assoc. (OCA)
Mr. Jeff Stintz Resident, Overlea Community Assoc. (OCA)
Ms. Gail Ritgert Resident, Linover Improvement Assoc.
Mr. Bud Herb Resident, Linover Improvement Assoc.
Ms. Carroll Pupa Resident, Linover Improvement Assoc.
Mr. Marc Ritgert Resident, Linover Improvement Assoc.
Mr. Dan Blair Resident
Ms. Norma Secoura Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)
Mr. Phil Humbertson SHA, District 4 – ESDT
Ms. Denise Magee SHA, District 4 – ESDT
Ms. Wendy Wolcott SHA, District 4 – ESDT
Mr. Winston Bain SHA, District 4 – ESDT
Mr. Walter E. Phillips SHA, District 4 – Traffic
Ms. Melissa Blair SHA, PPD – Cultural Resources
Ms. Margot Bartosh SHA, OED – LAD
Mr. Dennis German SHA, OHD – Community Design
Mr. Eric Lincoln SHA, District 4 – Golden Ring Maintenance Shop
Ms. Jill Lemke City of Baltimore – Department of Planning
Mr. Raymond Heil Baltimore County – OCC
Ms. Laurie Hay Baltimore County – Office of Planning
Ms. Kirsten Coffen Garden Architecture, LLC – Consultant
Mr. Anthony Frascarella Century Engineering – Consultant
Mr. Dave Manly Century Engineering – Consultant
Mr. Joshua Dupee Century Engineering – Consultant
Introductions, Review of Project Scope and Process:
Phil Humbertson, the Assistance District Engineer for Project
Development for District 4, opened the meeting by welcoming everyone and
thanking them for their participation in the Task Force. Mr. Humbertson
introduced key SHA and County Representatives. Then the Task Force
members introduced themselves followed by other SHA representatives and
the design consultants.
Mr. Humbertson proceeded to ask the audience if everyone had received a
copy of Task Force #3 Meeting Minutes as well as the handouts for the
presentation. Handouts included an agenda, 11-11”x17” color plan sheets
and 5-11”x17” color renderings.
Mr. Humbertson stated that the elected officials were in Annapolis and
would not be able to attend. Baltimore City is willing to partner with
SHA to extend the streetscape project beyond the City line to White
Avenue. Mr. Pupa stated that the City is in the process of starting a
task force sometime this year (he believes it will start in September).
Eric Lincoln, RME from the SHA Golden Ring Maintenance Shop, gave a
summary of items he has addressed since the third Task Force Meeting
held June 8, 2006. Mr. Lincoln explained to the audience that all pipes
and inlets within the project corridor had been vacuumed and inspected,
and a pipe near Bill & Earl’s had been replaced. He mentioned that the
drainage system within the project limits is very old. The minor
problems have been taken care of, but the major problems will have to be
addressed in this project. Mr. Lincoln also noted the dead wood in a
tree in front of St. Michaels has been trimmed, and they have been
sweeping the roadway to remove trash. Sweeping is being done on a
monthly basis.
Mr. Humbertson went over the Task Force process again and explained that
we are between the Preliminary and Final Concept Plan Phase. He also
thanked Mr. Dennis German, OHD Community Design, for providing
additional funding to complete the field survey.
The Baltimore City representative (Jill Lemke) explained to the audience
that the City has received capital money to assist in continuing the
streetscape project as far south as White Avenue. Further coordination
will be needed between all agencies involved.
Discussion of Project Issues and Potential Goals:
Tony Frascarella, from Century Engineering, Inc., and Kirsten Coffen,
from Garden Architecture, LLC, began their power point presentation. Mr.
Frascarella introduced the project, the project team, the concept
development process and the final concept plan. The final concept plan
included field surveys/mapping, concept plans (11 aerial plan sheets),
photo renderings (2 locations) and five special areas vignettes. Mr.
Frascarella and Ms. Coffen continued the presentation by explaining key
points of interest along the project corridor. The following is a
summary of the comments:
Plan Sheet #1 (US 1: From Fleetwood Avenue to 75’ North of Maple Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: No widening is occurring, 2 bump-outs are being
removed, ADA
compliant crosswalks, ramps, and sidewalks are being proposed. New curb
and gutter would be constructed in the existing locations.
Ms. Coffen: The Community Gateway Plaza at Fleetwood Avenue vignette was
explained. Adding a new community sign with decorative plantings,
lighting and paving would further beautify this location.
Plan Sheet #2 (US 1: From 75’ North of Maple Avenue to 75’ South of
Willow Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: No widening is occurring. ADA compliant crosswalks,
ramps and
sidewalks are being proposed. New curb and gutter would be constructed
in the existing locations. The short storage lane in front of the Sports
Bar & Restaurant would be removed to increase pedestrian safety.
Coordination with the property owner is needed to determine an alternate
method of accommodating delivery vehicles.
Ms. Coffen: The Streetscape Enhancements at Overlea Station vignette was
explained.
Adding a new historic character bus station sign with decorative
plantings, a formliner stone veneer finish on the existing retaining
wall and decorative paving would further beautify this location.
Plan Sheet #3 (US 1: From 75’ South of Willow Avenue up to Industrial
Transmission of Power)
Mr. Frascarella: No widening is occurring. ADA compliant crosswalks,
ramps and
sidewalks are being proposed. New curb and gutter would be constructed
in the existing locations.
Mr. Humbertson: Read a letter that was sent to Elected Officials from
District 4 – Traffic,
the “Flag In The Air” flasher has been approved for this project and
will be constructed in the summer at the St. Michael School. Crosswalks
will be refreshed/repainted and new fluorescent green pedestrian signs
and end of school zone signs will be installed by the Summer, 2007
assuming the weather cooperates. The reduction of the speed limit was
not approved. Current posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour will
remain. District 4 – Traffic has requested that Baltimore County Police
increase enforcement in this area.
Ms. Coffen: Decorative paving is being transitioned out. From this point
on,
decorative paving will only be used at signalized intersections to
further
emphasize their importance. Various plantings and fences will be used to
emphasize a “Green Corridor”.
Plan Sheet #4 (US 1: From Industrial Transmission of Power to 130’ South
of Fullerton
Court Drive)
Mr. Frascarella: No widening is occurring. ADA compliant crosswalks,
ramps and
sidewalks are being proposed. New curb and gutter would be constructed
in the existing locations. Potential stormwater management area located
between the open field and stream.
Ms. Coffen: Various plantings and fences will be used to emphasize a
“Green
Corridor”.
Plan Sheet #5 (US 1: From 130’ South of Fullerton Court Drive to
Entrance of Taylor
Plaza)
Mr. Frascarella: Widening to create a left turn lane onto Taylor Avenue
is being provided
along with ADA compliant crosswalks, ramps and sidewalks. Retaining
walls would be constructed to replace existing retaining walls that are
being removed. Utility poles, signal poles, and pedestrian signal poles
will be relocated into “notches” within the retaining walls to maintain
a five foot ADA compliant sidewalk. A left turn lane into Fullerton
Court Drive has been added. An ADA waiver will be required (sidewalk
width <5 feet) for the sidewalk in front of the Lassahn Funeral Home.
Audience Comment: The property owner in the southwest quadrant of the
intersection has
indicated he is willing to sell some of his property for widening the
roadway (as told by a Task Force member).
Mr. Manly: SHA is conducting a study to determine if any properties
(including walls)
in the corridor are eligible for the National Register. If they are
found eligible, Section 4(f) restrictions may apply.
Ms. Melissa Blair: Requested to meet with citizens of the corridor to
gain information on
such properties and walls that could be under review. The study will
determine whether some parts of the corridor are within a historic
district.
Audience Comment: Could a right turn lane be constructed into Fullerton
Court Drive?
Mr. Frascarella: The design team can take this into consideration.
Traffic volumes will
have to be analyzed.
Ms. Coffen: Landscape enhancements, including a community center sign,
could be
located near the intersection of Belair Road and Fullerton Court Drive.
Plan Sheet #6 (US 1: From Entrance of Taylor Plaza up to Pete’s Cycle)
Mr. Frascarella: Widening continues through this area. An improved right
turn lane onto
Fullerton Avenue has been designed. This turn lane will improve existing
bus turning issues. Properties with steep grades and existing retaining
walls north of Paintless Dent Removal, will have the retaining wall
removed and reconstructed further back on their respective properties.
Audience Comment: Could a right turning lane onto Belair Road be added
to the Fullerton
Avenue and Belair Road intersection?
Mr. Frascarella: The design team can take this into consideration.
Traffic volumes will
have to be analyzed as well as Right of Way availability.
Ms. Coffen: The Community Sign Area at Fullerton Avenue vignette was
explained.
Adding a new community organizations sign as well as flowering trees,
decorative brick paving, and a retaining wall to create a level sign
terrace would further beautify this location.
Plan Sheet #7 (US 1: From Pete’s Cycle up to Town and Country Flowers)
Mr. Frascarella: Road widening ends. Retaining walls are being proposed
to
replace existing retaining walls that are being removed. ADA compliant
crosswalks, ramps and sidewalks would be constructed.
Audience Comment: Walls in this location are deteriorating badly.
Audience Comment: Overlea-Fullerton Community Plan to review business
cohesiveness
throughout this corridor.
Plan Sheet #8 (US 1: From Town and Country Flowers up to Goodyear
Automotive
Service)
Mr. Frascarella: Road widening begins. ADA compliant crosswalks, ramps
and sidewalks
are being proposed. Retaining walls would be constructed to replace
existing retaining walls that are being removed.
Ms. Coffen: Various plantings and fences will be used to emphasize a
“Green
Corridor”.
Plan Sheet #9 (US 1: From Goodyear Automotive Service up to Carabba’s
Italian Grill)
Mr. Frascarella: Road widening continues to match existing center
turning lane near
Carabba’s Restaurant. ADA compliant crosswalks, ramps and sidewalks are
being proposed. Retaining walls would be constructed to replace existing
retaining walls that are being removed.
Ms. Coffen: Deteriorating conditions through this area are creating a
harsh
environment. The Parking Lot Buffer at Bingo Hall vignette was
explained. Adding plantings and relocating a commercial sign would
further enhance this location.
Mr. Frascarella: Before improvements to this area can occur, parking
needs and vehicular
movement of this parking lot will need to be assessed.
Plan Sheet #10 (US 1: From Carabba’s Italian Grill to Fowler Avenue)
Mr. Frascarella: ADA compliant crosswalks, ramps and sidewalks are being
proposed.
Retaining walls are being constructed to replace existing retaining
walls that are being removed. Between the time the aerial photograph was
taken and the time of survey, the Belair Beltway Plaza Parking Lot had
been re-landscaped. The additional grey area shows an update of current
conditions.
Ms. Coffen: Various plantings and fences will be used to emphasize a
“Green
Corridor”.
Plan Sheet #11 (US 1: From Fowler Avenue to Overton Avenue)
Ms. Coffen: The Community Gateway Sign at I-695 Interchange vignette was
explained. Adding a new community sign as well as flowering trees,
ornamental grasses, perennial flowers, and a retaining wall to create a
level sign terrace would further beautify this location.
Summary of Project Information
Mr. Frascarella: This project would require the relocation of
approximately 60 utility poles,
6 fire hydrants, 6 traffic signal modifications and 2,200 linear feet of
retaining/decorative walls. The project cost will also depends on the
extent of underground utility impacts and right of way costs.
Mr. Humbertson: Stated that utilities relocation costs, in an urban
setting like this,
could be very expensive.
Summary of Open Discussion
After the presentation, Mr. Humbertson opened the discussion to
questions and comments.
Questions or comments that arise after this meeting can be sent to Wendy
Walcott at wwolcott@sha.state.md.us or Winston Bain at wbain@sha.state.md.us.
Comment: Bump-out at Maple Avenue/Prague Avenue should not be removed to
improve right turns. There is existing on-street parking and it should
be
protected as well as maintaining the continuity of this section. Mr. Ray
Heil feels taking the bump-outs out will make the parking lane into a
travel lane. An audience member mentioned that the bump-outs were
being used for beer delivery truck parking and that severe damage was
being done by the trucks.
Question: How will the landscape be maintained? Margot Bartosh responded
that it
would be the property owner’s responsibility. An audience member
suggested keeping the landscape design simple so it would not create
major problems for community associations. Wendy Wolcott said that SHA
always tries to keep maintenance in mind. Also, the property owners will
coordinate with SHA regarding landscaping that may be installed along
their properties.
Question: Who will maintain the trees, falling trees, trees blocking
businesses?
Dennis German said that it would not be SHA unless it becomes a safety
hazard. SHA will need buy-in from property owners and community
associations.
Question: Do the green ovals on the plan sheets mean a buffer? Yes, this
buffer
could be trees, shrubs, decorative fencing, etc.
Question: In the area of Bel Haven to Fullerton Heights, drainage is a
problem.
Frequently the water pools in the roadway. Can anything be done about
this? This issue will be addressed in the design phase.
Question: In the area of Schooners Restaurant, erosion is a major
problem. Can
anything be done about this? This issue will also be addressed in the
design phase.
Comment: People are making U-turns at Overton Avenue to get onto the
Beltway
from SB US 1. Currently there is a sign stating no U-turns allowed.
Police enforcement is needed. Mr. Phillips said that District 4 –
Traffic has monthly meetings with law enforcement agencies. He will
request that they sit there and observe. Tony Frascarella said the
design of the median could be reviewed.
Question: Any considerations for roundabouts or two lane roadways for
this
project? Phil Humbertson said it can be studied, but neither option is
very feasible. Another meeting attendee suggested that by putting in a
two-lane roadway and reducing the speed near the City line, this will
slow traffic and may increase business. Dennis German said that if we
reduce travel lanes from four to two, plus parking lanes, this may hurt
the possibilities of this job being funded. The option of reducing the
lanes from four to two, plus parking lanes, and the addition of
roundabouts can be reviewed.
Comment: Speed limits are too high for the commercial community. Phil
Humbertson stated that US 1 is a commuter corridor and is designed to
move traffic. Jill Lemke said that we should leave bump-outs near the
City Line; this may help with speed and will protect parked cars.
Bump-outs will make the corridor seem narrower and speeds should
decrease.
Question: Any plans for marked bike lanes? Dennis German said that SHA
is
required to look at this for every project but there must be a balance
to all aspects. Parking cannot be removed to accommodate bikes. A 5’
wide bicycle lane is typically used in a closed section roadway but
vehicular travel lanes cannot go below 10’-11’ to accommodate them.
Comment: When the I-95 Section 100 Project is more underway, and with
other local
roadway projects getting started, US 1 will be used as an alternative
route. This means that higher traffic volumes will be seen on this
corridor.
Comment: MTA should review current bus needs along this corridor.
Concrete pads
should be included in this project. SHA will work with MTA, possibly
Charles Grant, to see if any bus stops should be moved, combined or
eliminated.
Question: What types of products will be used for construction of
community signs?
Kirsten Coffen stated that because we are not in the design phase,
specific products cannot be named at this time. Products that will be
used will have to be resistant to extreme environmental conditions as
well as vandalism.
Comment: Future Green Line extension to White Marsh has a stop planned
at
Northern Parkway.
Closing Remarks and Next Steps:
Phil Humbertson closed the meeting by thanking everyone for coming out
and sharing their views. He asked that everyone take their handouts of
the concepts home and share them with their neighbors/community. If
anyone has any comments about these concepts, they should contact
Winston Bain or Wendy Wolcott by March 7, 2007.
The next meeting will be scheduled in approximately two months. It was
suggested we keep meetings on Wednesdays.
CC: Attendees
Task Force Members
Business & Property Owners
Meeting to Review the SHA plans for Belair Road
Overlea Fullerton Community Plan
Commercial Revitalization Sub-Committee Plan
Carroll Pupa, chair
Date: Friday, March 9, 2007
Met at Edward Jones
Donna Bethke’s Notes:
Attendance: Carroll Pupa, Bud Herb, Jeff Stintz, Laurie Hay, Ray Heil,
Andrew Finkelstein (David S. Brown); Kathy and John DeAngelis (Buck
Fowler’s Tavern); Robin DeMarco ( Obrecht-Riehl Properties); Charlie
Davis (Natural History Society-new owner of Chesley Place); Bob Hoffman
(Thermo Sash); Joe Melvin (Melvin’s Tire); John Evans (Miller-Dippel
Funeral Home), Donna Bethke (OFBPA).
- Basic review of the SHA presentation we received at the 2/21
meeting last week.
- Ray Heil took over the meeting and very vocal about the SHA not
addressing the traffic calming, does not think we need any turn
lanes as this causes more accidents and speeds up traffic in the
other lanes
- Kathy ask about what type of pavers- not in favor of ones that
are not in mortar—too hard to clean off and maintain – Ray assured
her they would be set in concrete/mortar
- Carroll wants to form coalition???
- Loading zones only used 7:00 am – 5:00 pm—open parking at other
times
- Question asked, what is the safe speed- Ray said 25-30 mph
- Goal: to slow traffic down so that folks "see" what businesses
are here. The businesses are the "front door" to the neighborhoods
surrounding them
- Concern about trees blocking business signage- Ray says that
tree pruning is now part of Baltimore County and will be done by
Community Conservation or Recs and Parks.
- Any changes need to be made in Phase I before it goes to
engineering
- When the SHA was asked about the traffic calming, they stated
that they were not getting a lot of feedback about it.
- Carroll will schedule another meeting in a month.
- Donna suggested all comments be sent to the SHA directly with
the business owners personal contact information attached. Donna
will send everyone the SHA contacts after the meeting. Will ask the
SHA for an extension on the comment deadline- Bud has already
requested it and Donna will also put it in writing to the SHA.
Donna’s personal notes: Ray Heil pretty much drove this meeting
and they seem to want us to be the first to put the Dan Burden concept
into place (My question is why anyone else has not adopted yet?)
I found some of the comments made by Ray Heil as to be true
statements. Ray is pushing for no turn lanes, yet the task force
specifically ask for them ( Ray was unaware that Linover only has this
one main entrance into 1000+ homes other than Fullerton Avenue) Bud,
Jeff and Carroll all in agreement Belair Road should be 1 lane. I have
some real concerns about that (and I don’t care what Parkville is doing)
and will follow up with the SHA with some questions.
MEETING FOLLOW UP:
Donna would like to expand the business participation and will have
the FYI at the business meeting on 3/21. Also a meeting is scheduled
with any business or property owners only on
March 23rd at Buck Fowler’s @ 11:00 am.
Follow Up Conversation with Wendy Walcott:
I emailed Wendy Wolcott, one of the SHA project managers and we had a
great conversation and I questioned some of the comments that sounded
like hard based facts when presented by Ray.
My Q: I questioned the "fact" that turns lanes increase speed in the
through lane" Found this hard to believe that the SHA would put in
unsafe travel lanes
A: Wendy said that you actually increase eradicate driving behavior
when you do not have them. She said primarily the newly constructed
traffic signal timing is designed to move traffic efficiently and slower
Well designed intersections are in the plan. She also states that
narrowing the lanes calms traffic.
My Q: Is one lane truly going to move the same amount of traffic that
is sitting backed up on Belair Road now?
A: The SHA is not in favor on the one lane, for the simple fact that
their design takes into effect a 20 years ahead projections of traffic.
Traffic congestion is already growing at a higher rate than road
improvements can keep up with now.
My Q: Round-a-bouts?
A: Wendy said they have proven effective in certain areas and they do
reduce "personal injury" accidents.
My Q: MTA bus stops—seems Norma keeps bringing it up, but has brought
no real data to the meetings
A: Wendy said that they will work with the SHA directly. She did
mention that the SHA is not in favor of "pull-offs’ as it’s too hard to
reenter traffic. Hey will look at current locations and move them to
safer ones if necessary.
My Q: I asked her flat out about the Dan Burden presentation. I
questioned the fact that these recommendations came after a 1 hour
walk-through with out any real facts or figures. I don’t think we ever
got a formal recommendation from Dan Burden for our specific area. I
personally think he threw out a concept to be considered and many folks
are taking it as gospel.
A: She herself did not see it, but many from this project did. Dan
Burden gave pretty much the same opinion to approx. 6-7 other
communities in Baltimore County. After one presentations SHA Traffic
Engineer, Randall Scott had a one on one talk with Dan and said to "him
do you think this will work with the traffic numbers on this corridor
being____?" Dan responded, of course it will not work. I think this is a
comment worth pursuing.
My Q: I asked her about the stone walls being considered for
historical eligibility.
A: She said that is a lengthy process and could take a while.
My Q: Asked her if it was okay to send comments to several people of
the project in case someone was out of the office or on vacation. She
said, herself, Winston Bain, Phil Humbertson was all fine.
US 1 Community, Safety and Enhancement Project
US 1 (Belair Road) from Baltimore
City Line to I-695
Task Force Meeting No. 3 –
June 8, 2006
The third Task Force meeting was held on
June 8th, 2006 at the Overlea Methodist Church located at 3902 Overlea
Avenue. The following were in attendance:
Name Affiliation
Mr. Pete Definbaugh Overlea Community
Assoc. (OCA)
Mr. Bud Herb Linover Improvement Assoc.
Ms. Carroll Pupa Linover Improvement Assoc.
Mr. Ralph Secoura Overlea Community Assoc.
Ms. Melanie Whittaker McClosky Group
Mr. Ed Sprecher A-1 Bill & Earl’s Transmissions
Mr. Jeff Stintz Overlea Community Assoc.
Senator Kathy Klausmeier Senate of Maryland
Linda Weimer Booster Newspaper
Mr. Philip Humbertson SHA District 4 – ESDT
Ms. Denise Wilson SHA District 4 – ESDT
Mr. Lee Carrigan SHA District 4 – ESDT
Mr. Donald Distance SHA District 4 – Traffic
Ms. Margot Bartosh SHA – OED/Landscape Architecture Division
Mr. Eric Lincoln SHA – Maintenance/Golden Ring Facility
Laurie Hay Baltimore County Planning
Kathy Schlabach Baltimore County Planning
Ms. Jeanann Ferguson Balto. Co. Office of Community Conservation
Ms. Kirsten Coffen Garden Architecture, LLC – Consultant
Mr. Anthony Frascarella Century Engineering – Consultant
Mr. Hellon Ogallo Century Engineering – Consultant
Phil Humbertson began the meeting with introductions. He then briefly
summarized the April 30th Community Walkthrough.
Presentation of Maintenance Issues:
Eric Lincoln from SHA Golden Ring
Maintenance Shop was introduced. Eric gave a brief explanation of the
function of the Golden Ring Maintenance Shop and stated that residents
can call in about concerns for more minor road maintenance issues. He
then reviewed the issues raised at the Community Walkthrough. His
maintenance shop has taken care of everything that was a maintenance
concern. Regarding the missing street sign at Virginia Avenue, this is a
Baltimore County sign issue and they have been notified.
Eric then gave his phone number to the
people in attendance (410-574-4511) so that they can contact him with
any problems that may arise that he can handle aside from the
streetscape project.
There was a concern brought up about the
drainage just before Elm Avenue. The existing catch basin is not able to
handle all of the water that comes from heavy rains. Eric stated that
the infrastructure that exists today is very old. This may have to be
upgraded during this project. However, he can send his vacuum truck out
and clean out the system and see if this will help alleviate the
problem. Eric said this may be done within the next two weeks.
Presentation of Traffic Issues:
Donald Distance of SHA District 4 –
Traffic addressed the traffic issues that were mentioned at the
Walkthrough. The yellow ball that was out at Fullerton Avenue still had
not been replaced. He has spoken to the Signal Shop and will contact
them again about this issue. The pedestrian signal has been taken care
of. The issue of adding the speed limit to the overhead pedestrian sign
at St. Michael is being looked into. The concern of illuminating the
sign stating oncoming traffic has longer green is being looked into by
our Office of Traffic & Safety. Donald hopes to have an answer by our
next meeting.
Donald then gave the name and number for
Rodge Sharma, the Signal Engineer from Baltimore City, who would handle
the signals that are in our project limits, but located within their
jurisdiction. Mr. Sharma can be reached at 410-396-6871.
Donald has researched the minimum width
that the SHA will accept on this project for lane widths. The preferred
widths are 11 feet for through lanes and 15 feet for turn lanes. For
this project, SHA will accept 10 feet for through lanes and 11 feet for
turn lanes.
Donald addressed the suggestion made at
the Walkability Workshop to put a center turn lane through the entire
corridor with one travel lane in each direction. After going back to his
office and reviewing the ADTs, this concept would not be advisable. The
volume of cars is too large to make this concept work. There is an
average of 40,000 cars traveling on Belair Road on a daily basis.
Presentation of "Streetscape Design,
Pedestrian Access and Traffic - Issues and Opportunities":
Tony Frascarella, Century Engineering,
and Kirsten Coffen, Garden Architecture, LLC began their
presentation by explaining the display maps. The aerial photo boards
showed the Belair Road corridor with an overlay summarizing "Streetscape
Design, Pedestrian Access and Traffic: Issues and Opportunities". A
Power Point presentation of photos showing existing conditions taken
during the consultants’ inventory and the Task Force walking tour was
also shown. The maps and slide show started at the south end of the
project corridor.
MAP #1: FLEETWOOD AVENUE INTERSECTION TO JUST NORTH OF OVERLEA AVENUE
INTERSECTION
The section of the Belair Road corridor
between the Fleetwood Avenue and Chesley Avenue Intersections have a
distinctive "Main Street" quality with the buildings set close together
and defining the road corridor with set backs just behind the sidewalk.
Previous streetscape improvements provide a pedestrian friendly
environment, but need to be updated for aesthetic purposes and to meet
ADA accessibility requirements. The following improvements were
suggested:
Belair Road "Main Street" improvement
district:
- New decorative paving along sidewalks
- ADA improved pedestrian crossings at
all signalized intersections, cross streets, and driveways
- Maintenance for existing street trees
and new street trees
- New coordinated streetscape
furnishings including benches, planters with seasonal flowers, street
tree protection grates, trash receptacles, and newspaper boxes
- Potential to add decorative street
lights with banners
- Eliminate parking meters and replace
with "pay box"
- Potential decorative paving crossing
areas (at Fleetwood Avenue, Northern Parkway, Overlea Avenue, and
possibly Willow Avenue)
- Define spaces for existing on-street
parking
Enhance existing plaza area to create
community gateway (located just south of Rosedale Federal):
- Larger community sign; integrate stone
type material
- New coordinated streetscape
furnishings
- Small street trees in raised planters
- Potential for decorative street lights
- New decorative paving
Potential for pedestrian crossing bump
out (at pedestrian crossing between the plaza and the east side of
Belair Road)
Potential to extend plaza space into
parking lane (expands visual impact of plaza and narrows the crossing
distance for pedestrians)
Improve existing bump outs
- Improve drainage design
- New decorative paving
Potential to remove bump out and create
dedicated right turn lane onto Maple Avenue
Enhance existing bus station to create
community focal point:
- Historic character sign for Overlea
MTA Station
- New coordinated streetscape
furnishings
- Potential for decorative street lights
- New decorative paving
- Reduce clutter of newspaper boxes
- Improve existing planting pocket
- Historic character "Do Not Enter sign"
- Replace street tree and grate
- Replace existing "Jersey" retaining
wall with stone type veneer retaining wall
- New plantings to stabilize and
visually improve embankment
Plantings and/or decorative fencing to
buffer parking lot (east side of Belair Road, south of Wachovia Bank)
Improve existing seating plaza (east side
of Belair Road, north side of Wachovia Bank)
- New benches and planters
- New decorative paving
Questions/Comments:
A Task Force member asked about the types
of trees that would be selected as street trees. He was concerned about
selecting trees that grow to be too large. Kirsten Coffen responded that
at the next meeting we will be able to discuss in more detail the exact
trees that may be used for this project. The trees would be selected for
smaller size, hardiness in an urban setting, and minimal seed, litter,
etc.
A concern was brought up about how to
solve the problem of delivery trucks parking on the sidewalk (picture of
Overlea Avenue was shown). It was suggested to possibly install bollards
to protect the sidewalk and pedestrians.
Someone mentioned changing the one-way
direction of Overlea Avenue. There is a terminating vista at the end of
Overlea Avenue that would be more visible if people were driving towards
it instead of away from it. Phil stated that this is a Baltimore County
issue. SHA can pass this onto them for their review. However, Phil
stated that in order to have this accomplished, 75% of the residents
that live on Overlea Avenue would have to agree to the change.
MAP #2: JUST SOUTH OF CHESLEY AVENUE
INTERSECTION TO JUST NORTH OF ELM AVENUE INTERSECTION
Belair Road "Main Street" improvements
district (ending at the Willow Avenue intersection):
- New decorative paving along sidewalks
- ADA improved pedestrian crossings at
all signalized intersection, cross streets, and driveways.
- Maintenance for existing street trees
and new street trees
- New coordinated streetscape
furnishings including benches, planters with seasonal flowers, street
tree protection grates, trash receptacles, and newspaper boxes
- Potential to add decorative street
lights with banners
- Eliminate parking meters and replace
with "pay box"
Improve existing concrete retaining wall
(located along the parking lot just south of the Willow Avenue
intersection, east side of Belair Road)
- Add stone type veneer to wall
- Replace chain link fence with
decorative fencing (wrought iron look)
Potential for trees and plantings along
slope (in front of Chesley Place parking lot – west side of Belair Road)
- Potential for plantings and/or
decorative fencing (wrought iron look) to buffer parking lot
Provide required school signs (for Church
School)
Relocate utility pole (near Willow Avenue
intersection)
Widen radius and move utility pole (at
Madeline Avenue intersection)
Potential for street trees, plantings
and/or decorative fencing (wrought iron look) to buffer parking lots
(west side of Belair Road between Chesley Avenue and Elm Avenue and east
side of Belair Road just north of Madeline Avenue)
Replace guardrail with retaining wall and
provide street trees along open space area (west side of Belair Road,
opposite Manor Avenue intersection)
Questions/Comments:
A property owner asked if the control box
at Madeline Avenue could be raised to improve the sight distance problem
when pulling out of the business parking lot. Donald Distance said that
the box is located to make it accessible for technicians to have access
to the box for repairs/ adjustments. However, as part of this project,
it may be feasible to install a base-mounted cabinet. The pole may be
relocated as part of this project to improve pedestrian accessibility at
the intersection crossing.
Concern about the road drainage capacity
was raised by several Task Force members. In the recent severe rain
events, the roadway has flooded in the vicinity of the stream crossing.
The stream corridor appears to be eroding and adjacent properties are
frequently flooded. It was suggested that a stormwater management
facility could be located near the stream in the existing open space
lot. The task force would like to have this issue addressed by the
design team.
Someone asked if plantings in front of
properties would be part of this project. Phil Humbertson responded that
we may be able to do this, but it will have to be up to the individual
property owners and they would also have to maintain them.
MAP #3: JUST SOUTH OF FULLER AVENUE
INTERSECTION TO NORTH OF FULLERTON AVENUE INTERSECTION
Peak hour traffic count (was performed at
the Fuller Avenue intersection to determine if cars are turning left to
avoid the light at Taylor Avenue) – traffic count showed that a very
small amount of cars are making this movement.
Potential landscape enhancements to
create gateway to community center at Fullerton Court Drive)
Sidewalk width constricted by existing
stone walls (east side of Belair Road from Fullerton Court Road to the
Midori Japanese and Chinese Restaurant parking lot entrance)
- ADA accessible sidewalk issue
- Walls may need to be removed to create
northbound left turn lane onto Taylor Avenue
- Investigation of potential historic
status to be completed.
Taylor Avenue improvements:
- Provide dedicated northbound left turn
lane onto Taylor Avenue
- Potential decorative paving for
pedestrian crossing area
- Accent paving at intersection
Decorative paving is recommended at
signalized intersections for greatest visual impact
Provide center left turn lane (between
Taylor Avenue and Fullerton Avenue to accommodate turning movements onto
side streets and parking lots)
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lot (west side of Belair Road
between Taylor Avenue and Virginia Avenue)
Street trees along open space (west side
of Belair Road just north of Virginia Avenue intersection)
Analyze drainage problem (from Virginia
Avenue to Taylor Avenue)
Fullerton Avenue improvements:
- Provide dedicated southbound left turn
lane onto Fullerton Avenue
- Potential decorative paving for
pedestrian crossing area
- Accent paving at intersection
- New community sign to integrate
individual civic organizations
- Plantings to create setting for
community sign
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lots (starting at east side of
Belair Road just north of Fullerton Avenue)
Potential pocket plaza with benches and
decorative paving (west side of Belair Road in front of Paintless Dent
Removal)
Landscape improvements along top of
existing stone retaining walls (west side of Belair Road starting at
Morning Glory Infant, Toddler Center and north)
Questions/Comments:
Several Task Force members asked about
the feasibility of a roundabout at Fullerton Avenue. This option can be
further investigated by the design team.
A Task Force member asked if an existing
veteran’s memorial located farther north of the Beltway along the Belair
Road corridor could be relocated into one of the "pocket parks" shown on
the plans. The design team will work with the Task Force regarding this
proposed idea.
MAP #4: JUST SOUTH OF FULLERTON HEIGHTS
AVENUE INTERSECTION TO JUST NORTH OF HENRY AVENUE INTERSECTION
Add new ADA sidewalk (east side of Belair
Road in front of Pete’s Cycle)
Sidewalk width constricted by existing
stone walls (west side of Belair Road to just north of Fullerton Heights
Avenue and at Henry Avenue Intersection)
Analyze drainage problem (east side of
Belair Road to Henry Avenue Intersection)
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lots, soften building facades, and
enhance open space (both sides of Belair Road)
Henry Avenue improvements:
- Provide dedicated southbound left turn
lane onto Henry Avenue
- ADA pedestrian crossing improvements
needed
- Potential decorative paving for
pedestrian crossing area
- Accent paving for sidewalks at
intersection
MAP #5: JUST SOUTH OF GLADE AVENUE
INTERSECTION TO NORTH OF FOWLER AVENUE INTERSECTION
Peak hour traffic count (Thorncliff Road)
Remove commercial sign from SHA
right-of-way (west side of Belair Road at Fullerton Manor Bingo)
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lots (west side of Belair Road –
Fullerton Manor Bingo and Carrabba’s Italian Grill)
Provide center left turn lane (from Henry
Avenue intersection to existing left turn lane at Fowler Avenue
intersection)
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lots (both sides of Belair Road
adjacent to Fowler Avenue intersection)
ADA pedestrian crossing (shopping
center’s entrances near Fowler Avenue intersection)
Fowler Avenue Improvements:
- ADA pedestrian crossing improvements
needed
- Potential decorative paving for
pedestrian crossing area
- Accent paving at intersection
Questions/Comments:
Tony Frascarella spoke about extending
the left turn lane at Fowler Avenue all the way up to Henry Avenue. This
would accommodate left turning vehicles at Fowler Avenue, Thorncliff
Road, and Henry Avenue. Some Task Force members expressed concern
creating opportunities for increased traffic on side streets in the
community.
MAP #6: JUST SOUTH OF ROSSVILLE ROAD
INTERSECTION TO NORTH OF
I -695 ON/OFF RAMPS
New Community Gateway (at existing
community sign location; west side of Belair Road):
- New community gateway sign with stone
accents
- Accent plantings in front of sign
- Improve landscape setting behind sign
- Retaining wall with decorative fencing
to create level terrace for sign and accent plantings
Street trees and plantings and/or
decorative fencing to buffer parking lot (west side of Belair Road just
south of Poes Lane)
Analyze slope failure and drainage
problem (Schooners Restaurant parking lot and stream corridor; east side
of Belair Road)
Potential area for gateway landscape
improvements, and exotic invasive plant removal (east side of Belair
Road, just south of Overton Avenue)
Potential area for gateway landscape
improvements (Beltway interchange area)
Analyze drainage and erosion problem
(Overton Avenue intersection)
Questions/Comments:
Phil Humbertson addressed the issue of
re-facing the bridge over I-695 with a decorative type stone veneer
treatment. He had raised the issue with the SHA Bridge Division. They
stated that the bridge is in very good condition and does not currently
require any improvements. Phil said that even if we just put a new
facade on the bridge, it would be very expensive. Also, the bridge is
technically out of our project limits. Phil stated this is not
completely off the table at this point, and the issue can be revisited
again if necessary.
Next Steps:
Phil asked if everyone was agreeable to
not having the next meeting until September or October. This would
provide adequate time to conduct surveys to prepare more detailed
concepts. Also, this would work better with everyone’s summer vacation
schedules. Everyone was in agreement with this suggestion.
It was suggested that we send out revised
minutes from the "Walking Tour" minutes to the discussion of the left
turn lanes at Thorncliff Avenue and Henry Avenue. The minutes will be
revised as requested.
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