Agenda - 05-05-1986 - Laserfiche WebLink

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_ . 094 characteristics are considered citing the example that narrow roads handle less capacity. Planning Board Chair Jacobs inquired the cost of a traffic signal . Watkins responded a signal costs from $5-6000 to $30,000, depending on the complexity of the signal . Jacobs asked what is the source of funds for traffic signals. Watkins responded channelization and safety funds. Jacobs noted that NCDOT has indicated they will not accept funds from a developer for a signal for a particular inter- section to be installed at the time NCDOT feels it is necessary. Watkins confirmed that that was NCDOT policy., Citing the liabilities involved, Watkins indicated that NCDOT desires full control of a given intersection, adding that NCDOT has been able to fund these improvements in a reasonable period of time when warrants have been satisfied. Jacobs expressed concern about the public bearing the costs warranted by the actions of the private sector. Watkins noted that a funding is based on user fees. Jacobs noted that the Town of Hillsborough recommended the widening of US 70 and that the County had recommended that the project be phased to provide 200 units within a 2.5-5 year period and asked where inprovements to US 70 are on the highway improvements program. Watkins responded that US 70 was not listed on the highway improvements program at this time adding that he did not know when the Board of Transportation would add it to the TIP. He noted the TIP is updated every year. Each community presents its requests based on the needs of the community and prioritized and presented in a unified manner . Commissioner (Walker inquired if the Board of Transportation set certain use levels before roads are improved through the program. Watkins responded that the highway program is based on the competition between projects throughout the state and that projects are considered on a state-wide basis. He added there is no magic date. Commissioner Marshall emphasized that this situation poses difficulty for local decision makers in making public health, safety and welfare decisions and anticipating needs, She added that NCDOT waits until there is a need, a problem created, while the local governing board is trying to avoid the problem. Watkins that anticipation of need is desireable, but that NCDOT needs to stay within the physical constraints of recognized needs. Commissioner Wiilhoit addressed the process, needs, the TIP and funding. He noted that service levels are deteriorating while funding is years off adding that there is a shortfall in the status of the highway fund . He added that there is a need to increase the gasoline fax to meet the needs. He con- tinued that local government needs to do more to assist in getting roads constructed including the possiblity of participation in funding improvements and in right-of-way acquisition . He asked what is needed in terms of Scotswood to provide fcr the highest level of service needed balanced