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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-05-21 Response Comments RECEIVED, MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NOR I H ANDOVEk 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617) 776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account far the incjority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignnient of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider usingjourne))-to-ivork census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on stud),area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and hoiv drivers negotiate the local roadway netivork. The journey-to-work census data far the To)vn of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution Presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing(it the site driveivays and at the signalized intersection is summarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projects\2007-023 High St No Aiidovcr\—Corrcsl)oiideiice\Mciiios\To Lincoln Dale),03-11-2008,doc The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maxintum (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PM peak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus I vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues can be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maximum queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak hour. All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lutes. 4. The number of pedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase,possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted. Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate any changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will freed to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 Projectsl2007-023 High St No Andover) Correspondencc\Memos%To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc 2 Proposed East Mill Development - Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized - Prescott St. EB 1.7 (2.1) 3.4 (4.4 1.9 (2.5) 3.9 (5.1) Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 0.4 1.3(0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 0.8 Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5 21.7 10.6 (36.5) 5.7 23.6 11.1 39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - St .03 .22 0.03 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0 0.3(0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0A2 1.01 0.74 (3.12) Drive EB 0.15 (0.96) 0.17(1.30) Unsignalized - Water St. EB n/a 0.01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB nla 0.04 (.02) Site Dr RECEIVED MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NUK l H AND.OVER 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617) 776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account for the majority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignnreizt of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider using journey-to-I-vork census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway network. The journey-to--work census data for the Town of North Andover ivas reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is summarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 ProjectsU007-023 High St No Andoverl_Correspondence\Memos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doe 1 5 The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maximum (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus I vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues can be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maximum queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak Hour. All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plait to ensure safe sight lines. d. The number of pedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase,possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted. Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate any changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 ProjecM2007-023 High St No Andoverl_Correspoudencelivletnos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doe 2 Proposed East Mill Development - Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized - Prescott St. BB 1.7 (2.1) 3.4 4.4 1.9 (2.5) 3.9 (5.1) Prescott St and Prescott St.WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) Route 125 Rte, 125 NB 5.5 21.7 10.6 (36.5 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 (39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - ig St N13 0.22 (0.03) 0.22 0,03 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3(0.1) Site Dr Site Dr.WB 0.02 1.01) 0.74 (3.12) Drive EB 0.15 (0.96) 0.17 (1.30) Unsignalized - Water St. EB n/a 0.01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB n/a 0.04 (.02) Site Dr RECEIVEU F� MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NUH i H ANDOVEK 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617)776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development--Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account for the majority of the overall site-generated trips. To prol,ide a more accurate assignment of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider using journey-to-wo7k census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway network. The journey-to-work census data for the Town of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No--Build and Build queuing at the site driveivays and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is summarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projects12007-023 High St No Andoverl_Correspo3rdeiieckMenros\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc The results far the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maximrnn (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus I vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues cart be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other moverrtents show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queries under fire Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maxintum queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak(tour. All other movenrents show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lines. 4. The number of pedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase,possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted Response: The Applicant is coinfnitted to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate any changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 Projects\2007.023 High St No Andover\ CorrespondenceWeniosCl'o Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc 2 Proposed East Mill Development W Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1.7 (2.1) 3.4 (4.4) 1.9 (2.5) 3.9(5.1 Prescott St and Prescott St.WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 0.8) Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5 (21.7) .5 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 (39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - ig t 0. 2 0. 2 0.03 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3 (0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0.02 (1.01) 0.74 3.12 Drive EB 0.15(0.96) 0.17 (1.30) Unsignalized - Water St. EB nla 0.01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB nla 0.04 (.02) Site Dr DECEIVED- P� PEAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NICK I H ANDOVEI- 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617) 776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account far the majority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignment of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider using journey-to-work census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway netivork. The journey-to-work census data for die Town of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant surnrnarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is summarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projects12007-023 High St No AFtdoverl Correspondeace\MemoslTo Lincoln Daley 03.11-2008.doc � The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maxims►m (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus I vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues can be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maximum queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by 213 vehicles daring the PMpeak Hour. All other movements show little or no change between tine No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lilies. 4. The number of pedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase,possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-m)ay stop control if it is-warranted. Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate any changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 Projectsl2007-023 High St No Andover\ Correspondencellvlemos%To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc 2 Proposed East Mill Development - Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AIVI(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1,7 (2.1) 3.4 (4.4) 1.9 (2.5) 3.9 (5.1) Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 0.8) 0.6(0.4) 1.3 0.8) Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5(21.7) 10.6 (36.5) 5.7 23.6 11.1 (39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - High St R= 0. 2 0.0 0.22 (0.03) High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3 (0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0.02 (1.01) 0.74 3.12 Drive EB 0.15 (0.96) 0.17 (1.30) Unsignalized- Water St. EB nla 0.01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. 5B nla 0.04 (.02) Site Dr (A RECEIVED F� MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NUK I H ANDOVEK 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617)776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2005 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows; I. The trips estimated far the office and residential uses account far the majority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignment of site-generated trips to the roadway net ,ork, the Applicant may consider using journey--to-rl'ork census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadrl,ays. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and ho;v drivers negotiate the local roadivay network. The journey-to-work census data for the Town of Nord Andover )vas reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site drive>vays and at the signalized intersection is summarizer)on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projects12007-023 High St No Andover) Correspondence\Metnos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc i The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that inaxinrum (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus 1 velticle raider the No Biiild coidition. These relatively sinall rlueues can be acconnnodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All outer inoveinents show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queries under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/ntaxnntuin queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by.213 vehicles during the PMpeak hour: All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and.Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example)should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lines. 4. The number ofpedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase,possibly creating a fixture need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted. Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re--evaluate ally changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA12007 Projectst2007-023 High St No Andoverl Correspondence\MemoslTo Lincoln Daley 03-1 1-2008Aoc 2 Proposed East Mill Development W Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1.7 (2.1) 3.4 (4.4) 1.9 (2.5) 3.9 (5.1) Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 0.8 Route 125 Rte, 125 NB 5.5 (21.7) 10.6 (36.5) 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 (39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - ig St 0.03 2 0.03 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3 (0.1 Site Dr Site Dr.WB 0.02 (1.01) 0,74(3.12 Drive EB 0.15 (0.96) 0.17(1.30) Unsignalized - Water St. EB n/a 0,01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB n/a 0.04 (.02) Site Dr RECEIVED P� MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NUK I H ANDOVEh 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617)776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows; 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account far the lncjority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignment of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider using journey-to-ivork census data far distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office hips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway network. The journey-to-work census data for the Town of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent 1vith the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing dare to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. It is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is summarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projectsl2007-023 High St No Andoverl_CorrespondencelMemos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc ] The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that naaxinrunr (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PM peak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus 1 vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively s►nall queues call be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maximum queues for the northbound approach along Route .125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak hour. All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example)should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lilies. 4. The number ofpedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase, possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate ally changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern far the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 Projects\2007-023 High St No Andover\ Correspondence\Mei:aos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doe 2 Proposed East Mill Development Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1.7 (2.1) 3.4 4.4 1.9 (2.5) 3.9 (5.1 Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5 (21.7) 10.6 (36.5) 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 39.2) Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - High St N13 U2 0. 2 0.03 high Street and Hi h St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3 (0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0.02 0.01) 0.74 (3.12 Drive EB 0.15(0.96) 0.17 (1.30) Unsignalized _ Water St. EB nla 0.01 (.02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB n/a 0.04 (.02) Site Dr RECEIVED- MAR 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NUK I N NNDOVEK 265 Medford Street PLANNING DEPARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617)776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr. Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTO Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account for the majority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide a more accurate assignrrient of site-generated trips to the roadway network, the Applicant may consider using journey-to-work census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway network. The journey-to-work census data for the Town of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessrrrent report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quantified in the study. 1`t is recommended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queui►rg at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is su►nmarized on the attached Table A. PA12007 Projecls12007-023 Nigh St No Andoverl_Correspoardcncc\Mcmos\To Lincoln Raley 03-11-2008.doc I Z The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maximum (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus 1 vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues can be accommodated safely and efficiently along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues udder the Build Condition. The signalized intersection at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with average/maximum queues for the northbound approach along Rollie 125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak hour. All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight lines. 4. The number of pedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase, possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted. Response: The Applicant is committed to rrtorlitorirlg the irltersectiorr and r•e-evaluate any changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 ProjWA2007-023 High St NG Andover\ CorrespondencekMenios\To Lincoln Daley 03-1 i-2008.doc 2 i r Proposed East Mill Development - Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1.7 (2,1) 3A (4.4 1.9(2.5 3.9 (5.1 Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3 (0.8) 0.6 (0.4) 1,3 (0.8 Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5 21.7) 10.6 (36.5) 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 (39.2) (6 Rte. 125 SB 10,3 .6) 19.0 (12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12,8) Unsignalized - Higg St IT= 0.2 0.0 2 .03 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0) 0.3 (0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0.02 1.01 0.74 (3.12 Drive EB 0,15 (0.96) 0.17 (1.30) Unsignalized- Water St. EB nla 0.01 .02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB nla 0.04 (.02) Site Dr RECEIVED4 MAID 13 2008 Design Consultants, Inc. NOK I H ANDOVEK 265 Medford Street PLANNING DOARTMENT Somerville, MA 02143 (617) 776-3350 MEMORANDUM TO: Mr, Lincoln Daley Town Planner Town of North Andover FROM: David R. Ivany, PE, PTOk Chief Engineer SUBJECT: Proposed East Mill Development—Response to Peer Review (Traffic) DATE: March 11, 2008 This memorandum responds to the Peer Review report prepared by Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc (VHB) dated February 27, 2008. Specific Comments were provided on the traffic study and our response is as follows: 1. The trips estimated for the office and residential uses account for the inc#ority of the overall site-generated trips. To provide amore accurate assignment ofsite-genei-atedtrips to the roadway network the Applicant may consider using journey-to-work census data for distributing the trips generated by these components rather than existing travel patterns on study area roadways. Response: The existing travel patterns provide an accurate assessment since the observed traffic consists of existing residential and office trips in the area and how drivers negotiate the local roadway network. The journey-to-work census data for the Town of North Andover was reviewed and the data indicates a trip distribution that is consistent with the observed traffic patterns and the trip distribution presented in the assessment report. 2. The impact on vehicle queuing due to site-generated trips is not quanted in the study. It is recominended that the Applicant summarize the expected No-Build and Build queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection. Response: The expected queuing at the site driveways and at the signalized intersection is sunnnarized on the attached Table A. PA2007 Projects\2007-023 High St No Andover\—Correspoildeiice\MeiiiosVl'o Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc The results for the High Street Site Driveway Build Condition show that maximum (95%tile) vehicle queues for vehicles exiting the site during the PMpeak hour will be about 3 vehicles versus 1 vehicle under the No Build condition. These relatively small queues can be accommodated safely and efficie►ttly along the site driveway approach. All other movements show little or no queues. The low volume Water Street Site Driveway shows no queues under the Build Condition. The signalized intersection: at Prescott and Route 125 shows relatively little change with averagelmaximum queues for the northbound approach along Route 125 increasing by 213 vehicles during the PMpeak hour. All other movements show little or no change between the No Build and Build condition. 3. Intersection sight distance triangles should be added to the site plan and any objects (vegetation or signage,for•example) should be modified or removed so that safe sight lines can be provided. Response: The sight distance triangles will be added to the site plan to ensure safe sight litres. 4. The number ofpedestrians crossing High Street is likely to increase, possibly creating a future need to re-evaluate the operations and safety at the intersection of High Street at Water Street. It is recommended that the Applicant commit to monitoring this intersection and implementing four-way stop control if it is warranted Response: The Applicant is committed to monitoring the intersection and re-evaluate ally changes to operations and safety. As noted in the assessment report, the potential of a warranted condition for a 4-way stop will need to be balanced with the concern for the steep 10% upgrade along the High Street approach. PA2007 Projects12007-023 High St No Andoverl_CorrespoiideucelMemos\To Lincoln Daley 03-11-2008.doc 2 r Proposed East Mill Development - Response to Peer Review (Traffic) Table A Vehicle Queues 2012 No Build 2012 Build AM(PM) AM(PM) Intersection Approach Average Queue 95th Percentile Average Queue 95th Percentile Signalized- Prescott St. EB 1.7(2.1) 3.4 (4.4) 1.9(2.5) 3.9 (5.1) Prescott St and Prescott St. WB 0.6 (0.4) 1.3(0.8) 0.6(0.4) 1.3 (0.8) Route 125 Rte. 125 NB 5.5(21.7) 10.6(36.5) 5.7 (23.6) 11.1 39.2 Rte. 125 SB 10.3 (6.6) 19.0(12.6) 10.5 (6.7) 19.2 (12.8) Unsignalized - i9 St NB 0.22 (0.03) 0. 2 High Street and High St SB 0.17 (0.0 0.3(0.1) Site Dr Site Dr. WB 0.02 1.01 0.74 (3.12) Drive EB 0.15(0.96) 0.17(1.30) Unsignalized - Water St. EB nla 0.01 .02) Water Street and Site Dr. SB nla 0.04 .02 Site Dr Transportation Land Development Environmental S e r v i c e s 101 Walnut Street P.O.Box 9151 Watertown,MA 02471-9151 617 924 1770 FAX 617 924 2286 Memorandum To: Mr.Lincoln Daley Date: March 12,2008 Town Planner Town of North Andover 1600 Osgood Street North Andover,MA 01845 Project No.: 09280,37 From Joseph G.Quitter,P.E. Re: Review of Response to Comments Senior Transportation Engineer Proposed East Mill Development North Andover,Massachusetts Vauasse Hangen BrustIiu,hic. (VHB)has performed a professional and independent technical review of the response to comments memorandum prepared by Design Consultants,Inc. (DCl). This response was in regard to traffic engineering review comments on the traffic impact assessment that DCI prepared for the proposed mixed-use development project,located on the northeast quadrant of the High Street and Water Street intersection in North Andover,Massachusetts, Submission Materials As part of the technical analysis for the Town of North Andover,VHB reviewed the following report and set of plans submitted by the Applicant: Response to Peer Review(Traffic),Proposed East Mill Developnient,North Andover,Massachusetts; Prepared by Design Consultants,Inc.;March 11,2008. This information has been considered in the preparation of this memorandum. Summary and Recommendation The applicant has sufficiently addressed all of VHB's traffic engineering review comments to date. No.further traffic review is required at this time. cc: Timothy B.McIntosh,P.E.-VHB \\hiawatr\1e\0W80.37\docs\memos\Traffic_acceplance 20M.03.12,doc