Agenda - 02-19-1991 - Laserfiche WebLink

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C. (A copy of the abstract with information as presented by Marvin Collins is an attachment to these minutes on pages . A copy of the Feasibility Study is on file in the Planning Department.) Jacobs asked about the level of service for NC 54 and Collins responded that, according to NCDOT, it is classified as a minor arterial. Jacobs indicated that he felt lowering the speed limit would increase the road capacity and eliminate the need for widening the road. Board members also expressed concern about the following: 1. The current level of service is not identified. Even though the capacity of the road is exceeded, the level of service may be such that higher volumes can be accommodated. This would mean that trips may take longer but the -road would not have to be widened. 2. The distribution of automobile vs. truck traffic is not identified. This raises a question about the purpose of the improvements. Is the widening needed to carry automobile traffic or provide an alternate truck route to I- 85/I -40 or both? Additional information is needed. 3. Bingham Township is a focal point for agricultural activity in the county. Cane Creek and University Lake Watersheds are also located there. The widening of NC 54 may increase the probability of farmland conversion and contribute to water quality degradation. 4. The widening of NC 54 is premature in relation to Orange County's transportation planning efforts. Phase II of the Transportation Plan includes an explanation of standards for scenic roads, and pedestrian and bikeway facilities (including bridge design). Phase II should be completed and standards adopted before the widening project is pursued. The Planning Board asked that Chapel Hill and Carrboro be provided a copy of the feasibility study in the event that those jurisdictions wished to comment. The Board also asked staff to determine if the County Manager and Board of