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COLLEGE STATION
P. O. Box 9960 1101 Texas Avenue College Station, TX 77842 99- 70q
Tel: 409 764 3500
REVITALIZATION BOARD REVIEW SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING
March 3, 1999
TO: Larry Hodges, 3800 SH6, Ste. 108K, College Station, TX 77845
FROM: Design Review Board
Julius Gribou, NRB Chairman
Cheryl Anz, NRB Member
Leslie Randolf, NRB Member
Elton Abbott, Jr., NRB Member
Ron Kaiser, P&Z Commissioner
Steve Parker, P&Z Commissioner
Staff Attending:
Natalie Ruiz, Development Coordinator'
Bridgette George, Asst. Development Coordinato
Mike Patterson, Police Department
SUBJECT: Proposed signage for the new location of Double Dave's Restaurant; the
building is located at 209-A University Drive (previously M&M Grill)
[Case No. 99-7071.
A Northgate Revitalization Board (NRB) meeting was held, Wednesday, March 3, 1999
to discuss the above proposed building signage. Larry Hodges stated that they reduced
the size of the sign on the side of the building as requested at the last meeting. He also
showed a proposed "Welcome to Northgate" sign for the side, which would be located
adjacent to the Double Dave's sign.
Julius Gribou was concerned with how busy the two signs were together with the
different fonts. He suggested making both of them the same uppercase font. Cheryl
Anz suggested delaying putting up the Northgate sign until a standard sign is
developed. Larry Hodges stated that he could paint just the Northgate logo for now
and repaint the sign when a standard sign is designed.
Ron Kaiser asked if there was a standard Northgate sign. The committee said no, but
agreed that there should be a standard sign designed, for this and future locations.
Leslie Randolf stated that the sign still looked big and was extending past the width of
the windows. She reminded Mr. Hodges that the NRB suggested designing the sign so
that it remained within the width of the two windows that it will be above. Mr.
Hodges said he would have that changed to stay within the two windows.
Larry Hodges stated that he would like the sign on the front of the building to be
lighted with spot lights. He stated that he will look at Richard Benning's building to
see what lighting he has used and stated that he will remain consistent with the rest of
the district. He said that the sign will be green with cream letters. The sign will have
stars like the side sign.
Home of Texas A&M University
Julius Gribou stated that the sign cannot go above the roof and that the parapet will
need to be raised to align with the top of the sign. He also said that it will need to
match the parapet of the adjacent building.
Cheryl Anz requested that the sign be supported more towards the center of the sign so
that the supports will not be seen from the overpass.
Mike Patterson suggested putting addresses on the front and back of the building for
security and safety purposes.
Cheryl Anz inquired about the gas meter located in front of the building. She asked
whether landscaping could be constructed to hide the meter. Julius Gribou suggested
painting them the same color as the building. Larry Hodges stated that he would
contact Lone Star Gas and check to see what the limitations were with the meter.
Elton Abbott, Jr., moved to accept the signage as proposed with the following
conditions:
Sign on the side of the building will align with the width of the windows;
The Northgate sign will be repainted when a standard sign is designed;
The front sign will be green with cream letters,
The parapet on the front of the building will be extended in height to
meet with the top of the sign, but not to extend past the height of the
adjacent building's parapet;
The brackets on the front sign will be located towards the center of the
sign to prevent being seen;
The lighting will be incorporated to match the canopy color;
If allowed, the gas meter will be painted; and
Clear addresses will be located on the building for easy identification.
Cheryl Anz seconded the motion which passed 6-0.
The Board voiced several concerns regarding a sign that had recently been erected in
Northgate. Julius Gribou stated that "A+ Tutoring" erected a sign overnight and
would like to see code enforcement performed. Natalie Ruiz said that she spoke with
Cheryl Anz on this issue and that the City would enact code enforcement on it. Ms.
Anz said that after her conversation with Ms. Ruiz, Lance Simms, Building Official,
stated that it may be not be worth pursuing because it may be torn down when the
hotel is erected. The Board agreed that they would like to see action taken on this issue
and suggested putting a time limitation on removing the mural.
Cheryl Anz stated that she would like the City to be proactive in educating citizens and
applicants about requirements in special districts. Jane Kee stated that the City could
educate sign companies by sending out information about special districts.
COLLEGE STATION
P. O. Box 9960 • 1101 Texas Avenue College Station, TX 77842
Tel: 409 764 3500
NORTHGATE REVITALIZATION BOARD MEETING
February 17, 1999
TO: Wallace Phillips, 3800 SH6, Ste. 108K, College Station, TX 77845
FROM: Design Review Board
Julius Gribou, NRB Chairman
Cheryl Anz, NRB Member
Leslie Randolf, NRB Member
James Massey, P&Z Chairman
Steve Parker, P&Z Commissioner
Staff Attending:
Natalie Ruiz, Development Coordinator
Bridgette George, Asst. Development Coordinato
SUBJECT: Proposed building expansion and signage for new location of Double
Dave's Restaurant; the building is located at 209-A University Drive
(previously M&M Grill) [Case No. 99-7071.
A Northgate Revitalization Board (NRB) meeting was held, Wednesday, February 17,
1999 to discuss the above proposed building expansion and signage. The NRB Board
was informed that the restaurant owners would like to construct the second story to
provide for a meeting room and area for a band for his patrons. He said that the
existing Double Dave's located in Northgate currently provides approximately 60%
delivery service and 40% dine-in. He doesn't expect that to change much with the
new location and expansion. The owners provided a copy of the artwork for the sign,
as well as some color samples for the Board's review. The Board concurred that the
green and burgandy colors would work well. The owners also stated that he would
like to put "Welcome to NmYhgate" on the side of the building facing Wellborn Road,
adjacent to their proposed sign that would be painted on the building. The Board
determined that the size of the letters on the proposed Double Dave's sign was about 3
feet. They stated that the size exceeds the Northgate requirements of a 14" maximum
for signs. The Board suggested that the Double Dave's owners take a look at the
Schlotzsky's signage which is located on the other end of the Northgate area for a guide
on a revised sign size. Mr. Wallace Phillips stated that the existing sign on the front of
the building located on the awning would be moved above the awning onto the
building. He proposed removing the existing box windows and installing two 4' x 12'
windows and placing the sign between the windows.
The Board requested that the owners revise their signage, design a sign for "Welcome
to Northgate," and resubmit several versions for their review at a subsequent meeting.
Julius Gribou suggested centering the Double Dave's sign above the existing windows
on the side.
Steve Parker moved to accept the proposal of the second floor to include the
music/night club request. Cheryl Anz seconded the motion, which passed 5-0.
Home of Texas A&M University
STAFF REPORT
Item: Public hearing and consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for the use only to permit
nightclub addition to a restaurant in NG-1 Historic Northgate. Application is in the name of
Wallace Phillips. (99-707)
Item Summary: The request is for approval so that the applicant may pursue the finish-out of a
second floor to the existing building to add a second floor that will operate largely as a nightclub.
The proposed project will have a Double Dave's pizza restaurant on the first floor with
entertainment and a bar on the second floor.
Item Background: The area was rezoned in 1996 with the rest of the Northgate area subsequent to
the City's adoption of the Northgate Redevelopment Plan. That plan targets the Northgate area for
rehabilitation and redevelopment as an urbanized historic business area near the Wellborn and
University Drive with residential uses behind the commercial areas. The plan provides for high
density development in all three of the Northgate subdistricts with pedestrian and bicycle-oriented
uses. In an effort to achieve these goals, site design review is discretionary through the Northgate
Revitalization Board (NRB). Future development and redevelopment is to occur in more of an
urban, compact style, rather than the suburban style that occurs in other parts of the City.
Budgetary & Financial Summary: NA
Staff Recommendations: Section 14 of the Zoning Ordinance authorizes the existence of
conditional uses. The Commission may permit a conditional use subject to appropriate conditions
and safeguards, when after public notice and hearing the Commission finds that: (Staff comments
are in italics)
1. "The proposed use meets all the minimum standards established in the ordinance for the
type of use proposed." This project will be reviewed by the NRB prior to PNZ consideration for
compliance with the discretionary review as described above. NRB comments will be presented
to the PNZ at the meeting on February 18.
2. "That the proposed use meets the purpose and intent of the ordinance and is in harmony
with the development policies and goals and objectives as embodied in the Comprehensive Plan for
Development of the City." This use is not in conflict with the Land Use Plan.
3. "That the proposed use will not be detrimental to the health, welfare, and safety of the
surrounding neighborhood or its occupants, nor be substantially or permanently injurious to
neighboring property." The public hearing is an opportunityfor the Commission to measure the
potential impact on surrounding land uses.
"The Commission may impose additional reasonable restrictions or conditions to carry out the
spirit and intent of the ordinance and to mitigate adverse effects of the proposed use. These
requirements may include, but are not limited to, increased open space, loading and parking
requirements, additional landscaping, and additional improvements such as curbing, sidewalks and
screening."
o:\goup\deve_ser\s&pt\99-707. doc
Unless the public hearing brings to light any new information indicating potential negative
impacts, Staff recommends approval with compliance with the concept plan and the buffering as
conditions.
Related Advisory Board Recommendations: N/A
Commission Action Options: The Commission has final authority over the Conditional Use
Permit and associated site plan. The options regarding the use permit are:
1. approval as submitted
2. approval with conditions relating to specific site characteristics or with time limitations
3. denial with specified reasons for denial
4. table, or
5. defer action to a specified date.
Supporting Materials:
1. Location Map
2. Application
3. Engineering Information and Notification Information
o:\groupldeve_ser\st&pt\99-707.doc
ENGINEERING
No concerns as of date of staff report
NOTIFICATION:
Legal Notice Publication(s): The Eagle; 2-3-99
Advertised Commission Hearing Dates(s): 2-18-99
Advertised Council Hearing Dates: Not required
Number of Notices Mailed to Property Owners Within 200': 15
Response Received: None as of date of staff report
oAgmp\dew_sa\stfrpt\99-707.doc
i
Benito Flores-Meath, said that he thought the C-1 zoning would be good for the area. He felt the
collector should be installed by the developer without allowing for oversize participation.
Assistant City Engineer Morgan said that this street may not be eligible for oversize participation.
Chairman Massey closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Maloney thought that the Commission would have a better feel for the project once the
Master Plan was reviewed. He felt he could support the plan if it is the same as shown tonight.
All Commissioner were concerned with C-I because of its intensity.
Commissioner Rife moved to recommend approval of the rezoning request with all staff conditions.
Commissioner Parker seconded the motion, which passed 4-2; Commissioners Kaiser and Maloney
voted in opposition of the motion.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 8: Public hearing and consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for he
use only, to permit a nightclub addition to a restaurant in NG-I Historic Northgate
Senior Planner McCully presented the staff report and stated that the request was for approval so that
the applicant may pursue the finish-out of a second floor to the existing building to add a second floor
that would operate largely as a nightclub. The proposed project would have a Double Dave's pizza
restaurant on the first floor with entertainment and a bar on the second floor.
Unless the public hearing brought to light any new information indicating potential negative impacts,
Staff recommended approval.
Chairman Massey asked for a definition of a night-club. Ms. McCully explained that a night-club, as
defined in the Zoning Ordinance, are establishments that derive 75% or more of their gross revenue
from the on-premise sale of alcoholic beverages, or establishments where a dance floor, music, games or
other entertainment is provided. She said that this request was being considered a "night club" because
of the entertainment, the alcohol sales would not be there primary source of sales because of the
restaurant. The application stated that there would be live bands but it did not specify a dance floor or
pool tables. The upstairs area would have a service bar.
Chairman Massey opened the public hearing.
Mr. Larry Hodges, representative of Double Dave's, explained that this would not be a typical night
club, but since they are proposing live music the restaurant would fall into the night club category.
There would be a service bar upstairs but no kitchen facilities.
Benito Flores-Meath, expressed his concern for pedestrian traffic leaving the facility and crossing the
street to get back to campus. He said there had been close calls in the past and this would increase if
the patrons were drinking alcohol. He handed the Commission a packet which included his concerns,
and several letters discussing the safety issues in the area. (This packet is included with these minutes.)
Chairman Massey closed the public hearing.
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 7 of 20
The Commissioners all agreed that pedestrian safety was a concern but felt there was little this one
applicant could to do to avoid it. They asked staff if there had been discussions to install pedestrian
signals. The felt the need for a traffic study in the area.
Transportation Planner Hard said that the City is aware of the issue but this area has not been made a
high priority. He did not know of any fatalities in this area but was aware of accidents between vehicles
and pedestrians.
Commissioner Maloney moved to approve the conditional use permit. Comnussioner Parker seconded
the motion, which passed 5-0-1; Commissioner Rife abstained from the discussion and vote.
AGENDA ITEM NO. 9: Consideration of a Final Plat of the L.O. Ball Subdivision Phase H,
approximately 27.5 acres located on the southwest corner of the Rock Prairie Road including the
extension of Longmire Drive. (99-208)
Transportation Planner Hard presented the staff report and stated that the purpose of this plat is to
subdivide 27.5 acres into nine C-2 Commercial Industrial lots. This final plat includes the extension of
Longmire Drive as a major collector from Rock Prairie Road south to Birmingham Drive. It also
includes dedication of right-of-way and construction of a right turn lane on the section of Rock Prairie
from Longmire east to the west Frontage Road. He said that staff reviewed the final plat and found
compliance with all of the subdivision regulations with one exception.
Originally, staff had encouraged an access easement that would parallel Rock Prairie Road on the
Kroger site east of Iongmire to serve the existing bank site, and that there be an access easement to the
west of Longmire to align with that future driveway. The access easement on the west side was to
serve all of Lots 1 through 6 of Block 3. However, during preliminary discussions regarding the Kroger
conceptual plan, it became apparent that the driveway nearest Rock Prairie Road would generate higher
volumes than were anticipated. In light of this new information, staff is concerned that the original
recommendation to require the access easement west of Longmire will add to the traffic congestion on
Longmire if high traffic generators are built on Lots 1,2,3, and 6 of Block 3. If such uses are
contemplated for these lots in the future, staff recommends that their access drives do not connect to tha
portion of the access easement that will serve Lots 4 and 5. Therefore, Staff recommended approval
with the condition that the portion of the access easement adjacent to Lots 1,2,3, and 6 be marked on
the final plat with a reference note that access to that easement will be determined at the time of site
development.
Mr. Frank Mihaulapolus, Rock Prairie Limited Partnemship representative, said that he was in favor of
the requirements of the plat but expressed his concern with the access condition for Lots 1,2,3, and 6.
He wanted assurance that these lots would not be limited to one opening. He was concerned with the
wording of the condition. He said that the primary access for these lots would be to Rock Prairie Road
but wanted means of secondary access to Longmire.
Mr. Hard said that assurance of the location of the secondary access would be determined at the time of
site plan consideration because there are not defii;ite plans for what will be developed.
Mr. Mihaulapolus was certain that the development would be oriented toward Rock Prairie Road. He
also said that he was satisfied with the condition as stated with Staffs recommendation.
Mr. Greg Taggart, Municipal Development Group, reiterated Mr. Mihaulapolus' concern.
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 8 of 20
Denial of Conditional Use Permit for Double Dave's (nightclub)
From P&Z Agenda Item No. 8, Conditional Use Permit application, for P&Z meeting,
March 4"', 1999:
Staff Recommendations: Section 14 of the Zoning Ordinance authorizes the
existence of conditional uses. The Commission may permit a conditional
use subject to appropriate conditions and safeguards, when after public
notice and hearing the Commission finds that.
Item #3. "That the proposed use will not be detrimental to the health,
welfare, and safety of the surrounding neighborhood or its occupants, nor
be substantially or permanently injurious to neighboring property."
The safety issue is critical because of both the proposed location of the nightclub and
the alcoholic beverages to be served on-site. The building is very close to the Wellborn
Road and University Drive overpass, and there are a number of high speed blind spots
that can easily lead to fatal accidents. The safety issue is magnified when students who
have drunk some or a lot of alcohol, have their judgement impaired, and try to cross
University Drive. I have placed special marks on the map enclosed to point out some
dangers, as well as circled the most "dangerous" area.
Mark #1. Traffic travelling north on Wellborn Road exits to merge onto University Drive.
Vehicles frequently take this curve at a higher, unsafe speed. Upon entering University
Drive, most of the drivers are craning their necks back to look for traffic coming from
Raymond Stotzer PW, and could easily miss a student crossing at Mark #1. There is no
runoff space, speed cannot be scrubbed off fast enough, and therefore the collision is
unpreventable. At these speeds, fatalities are quite likely.
Mark #2. Traffic travelling east on Raymond Stotzer PW goes under the overpass and
suddenly emerges at University Drive at Mark #2. The overpass obscures the driver's
vision until emerging on the other side. Traffic cannot slow down fast enough to prevent
a fatality.
Mark #3. The sidewalks at Double Dave's and the surrounding businesses on University
Drive are narrow and have little safety room. Many vehicles are travelling west on
University Drive, intending on turning north to merge onto Wellborn Road; this traffic is
watching the curve of the street, not pedestrians. If a Double Dave's patron (drunk or
otherwise) was to step out onto the street, the vehicle would hit the pedestrian, resulting
in grave bodily injury.
Mark #4. Traffic travelling west on University Drive, intending continuing onto Raymond
Stotzer PW, has left the intersection of Ross and University Drive, and is most likely near
the speed limit and still accelerating. Pedestrians at Mark #4 are likely to not have
sufficient time to cross, especially if their judgement is impaired by alcohol.
Mark #5. Many times you will see students crossing in either direction stop between the
lanes. They made it across half of University Drive, and are waiting for traffic to clear to
cross the other. Mixing in some alcohol makes this a seriously dangerous situation.
P&ZMinures March 4, 1999 Page It of 20
I lived at Moore Hall at Northgate (mark #6 on the map) for four years and have
personally seen many of the above cases nearly result in a major accident. If the
Commission approves the Permit, and a largely alcohol related nightclub business is
established at this site, then it is inevitable that we will have an accident, most likely
resulting in death.
I cannot, in good conscience, support approving the permit under such circumstances,
and I'm sure the Commissioners, knowing the facts, don't want to be responsible for any
future deaths when a simple disapproval would have prevented them. I hope that I have
sufficiently notified you of the dangers inherent with this location and approving in this
ep rmit.
Therefore, I submit to the College Station Planning and Zoning Commission, that you
move to deny the Conditional Use Permit for a nightclub addition for Double Dave's,
and that such denial be stated for reasons of public safety.
Submitted to Planning and Zoning Commission for the Public Record of the City of
College Station on March 3, 1999.
Signed,
Benito Flores-Meath
901 Val Verde
College Station, TX 77845-5125
Resident of B/CS for 20 years
Cc: Planning and Zoning Commissioners, City Secretary
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page If of 20
Supporting Evidence
The following were obtained from Double Dave's web site. They support the claim that
the nightclub is strongly alcohol related, and that A&M students are the target market.
Item #1:
Question: What is your primary expansion strategy?
Answer. DoubleDave's began around Texas A&M University and The
University of Texas, the seventh and second largest college campuses in the
United States.
Conege students are very receptive to new ideas and products. Market
penetration can be very rapid. Its great until the students go home for the
summer. Welcome to cash flow roller coaster.
Bold Item describes the target market, largely students.
Source: http://www.doubledaves.comtfags.htm
Item #2:
JOIN A GROUP OF DISCERNING BEER DRINKERS AND ENHANCE YOUR
BEER DRINKIN' ENJOYMENT AND KNOWLEDGE.
Since we started the Global Beer Experts Tour in 1985, DoubleDave's has guided
untold thousands of beer drinkers into our Global Beer Program. Of these
nameless and faceless thousands, more than 6,000 distinguished people have
demonstrated the tenacity and persistence to complete their beer studies and to
achieve immortality as a Global Beer Expert and to have their name enshrined
forever on the DoubleDave's wall plaque (brass, no less). It has been our pleasure
to serve them all.
Bold Item describes a large volume of beer drinkers and beer consumption.
Source: http:ttwww.double0aves.com/gbemain.htm
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 19 of 20
Item #3:
THE RULES!
1. Beers will be tasted under the roof of any DoubleDave's locatioin.
2. Sadly, participants must be of legal drinking age and present valid ID when
required.
3. To promote safe & responsible drinking, DoubleDave's will only validate four
(4) beers per day.
4. Your Global Beer Passport is non-transferable. Sure, it would be nice to have a
friend drink the Guiness Stout, but there's a price you pay for everything.
5. Keep your passport with you. DoubleDave's is not responsible for lost or
missing passports.
6. Some beer substitutions may be allowed due to lack of availability but you are
required to gag down the Anchor Steam.
7. The Cajun Fifth Amendment: "But, baby, 1 was drunk" satisfies us at
DoubleDave's. But be warned, outside our doors lurk angry lovers/spouses or
even the constable. Please enjoy these excellent beers responsibly.
8. Once you are certified as a Global Beer Expert, you are obligated to become a
GBE guide and help your friends achieve immortality as a Global Beer Expert and
acquire beer knowledge.
Bold Item describes kidding, wink wink, acknowledgment of overdrinking. I do recognize
that, especially for legal reasons, the management has warnings against overdrinking. 1
also recognize that such warnings, at any establishment serving alcohol, is sometimes
be ignored by patrons.
Source: http://www.doubledaves.com/gbemain.htm
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 13 of 20
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4, 1999
May 10, 19 98
Mayor Lynn Mcllhaney
College Station, TX 77840
Dear Mayor Mcllhaney,
Enclosed are two letters from city and state road engineers. I had pointed out
some potentially hazardous pedestrian crossings on University Drive between
Wellborn Road and College Main. This is from observations of traffic during my eight
years experience working on campus in the Northgate area. I will now leave the
situation in your hands. Thank you in advance for your consideration of these
materials.
To summarize my suggestions, it would seem that a little yellow paint and a
few speed limit signs would make the area much safer for pedestrians. Vehicles
often seem to travel at excessive speeds coming off Wellborn entering University and
vehicles often travel in the center turn lane (when no left turn is possible). At any
rate, I would think safety could be greatly improved for pedestrians and individuals in
wheelchairs to cross University Drive.
Sincerely,
Michael D. Osterbuhr
doctoral student and graduate assistant
4013 Woodbriar Drive
Bryan, TX 77802-3639
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 16 of 20
Texas Department of Transportation
1300 N. TEXAS AVE. • BRYAN, TEXAS 77803-2760 • (409) 778-2165
October 2, 1997
Mr. Michael D. Osterbuhr
4013 Woodbriar Drive
Bryan, Texas 77802-3639
Dear Mr. Osterbuhr:
I refer to your August 22, 1997 letter to the City of College Station concerning pedestrian
safety on University Drive (FM 60) in the vicinity of North Crate.
An April 1, 1996 city ordinance increased the 30 mph speed limit to 35 mph from
Wellborn Road to South College Avenue (SH 308). The new 35 mph speed limit sign for
eastbound traffic is located to the immediate west of the Wellborn Road ramp. We have
scheduled placement of an additional speed limit sign east of the ramp for traffic entering
University Drive from Wellborn Road.
In accordance with the Municipal Maintenance Agreement, placement of pedestrian
warning signs and crosswalks are the responsibility of the City of College Station after
state approval. The city should be able to provide guidance as to the warranting process
of these types of warning devices. Crosswalks currently exist at the signalized
intersections. Additional crosswalks were investigated several years ago and rejected due
to site restrictions.
The center lane you refer is a permitted continuous left turn lane for vehicular-traffic.
Traffic that uses this lane for forward movement and not for turns could be in violation
with the traffic laws. The decision to prohibit any portion of this lane to left turns for the
purpose of pedestrian storage would come from the city.
I hope I answered your concerns and recommendations. Your concern for pedestrian
safety is appreciated.
Sincerely,
P
Patrick T. Williams, P. E.
Area Engineer
cc: - Mark Smith, City of College Station
M Equal Oppottmhy Emplwyer
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 17 of 20
- - - ---CI-T----OF C-OL-L-ECE STAIOI`I
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SERVICES
POST OFFICE 8oX 9960 2617 TEXAS AVENUE
COLLEGE STATION. TEXAS 77842.9960
(409) 764-3690
September 5, 1997
Mr. Michael D. Osterbuhr
4013 Woodbriar Drive
Bryan, Texas 77802-3639
Dear Mr. Osterbuhr.
Thank you for your letter expressing concern about the intersection at Wellborn and University. It is a
challenge'to move vehicle and pedestrians safely in any environment. 1 have forwarded your concerns to
the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) since both Wellborn and University are state highways
and maintained by the state. We have also contacted their maintenance division to request replacing the
speed limit signs on the "off-ramp" of Wellborn Road.
The state will have to evaluate additional signage and painting of cross walks. There are cross walks
provided at signalized intersections. These intersections have pedestrian heads installed to provide safe
crossing for pedestrians.
Please contact me at 764-3690 if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Anthony, Assistant Public Works Director
P&ZMInutes March 4, 1999 Page 18 of 20
August 22, 1997
Public Services Administration
2613 Texas Avenue South
College Station, TX 77840
To Whom it may concern,
The purpose of this letter is to advise yob of one of the most dangerous
auto /pedestrian areas that I have personally observed in my eight years living in
the Bryan/College Station municipality, is the intersection of Wellborn Road and
University Drive.
Point One: ' The 'off-ramp" of Wellborn Road feeding onto University Drive east-
bound has not had speed limit signs replaced for at least six years. In my
opinion, these speed limit signs need to be replaced to protect pedestrians;
furtheri-nore, there are- no signs posted advising drivers to 'Watch for
Pedestrians Ahead" which would be legally/fiscally prudent for C.S.
Point Two: Although this 'off-ramp" mentioned has a wheel-chair ramp, there
is no "cross walk" painted on the pavement. Many TAMU students use this path
to travel from the Northside Dorms to West Campus for classes. An investment
in a bit of paint may spare some luckless pedestrian's life and spare a driver
and the city a huge lawsuit.
Point Three: Fortunately for students and other pedestrians who regularly cross
University Drive at the crossing mentioned above, there is a safety island in the
center of University Drive for pedestrians who can only make it half-way across
University Driva because of heavy traffic. Such a "luxury" (at the cost of a
small bit of paint) would be quite beneficial at the intersection of University
Drive and Boyette Street. I have often witnessed vehicles illegally traveling for
two hundred yards or more in the center 'turn-lane" in front of Northgate.
Point Four: There currently exists, a "safety island" at the intersection of
University Drive and Tarrow, and again at University Drive and Spence Street to
inform vehicles to avoid driving in the center "turn-lane" where no turn is
possible. Wouldn't it be prudent, from a pedestrian safety and a risk
management perspective, to invest the small amount of capital it would require,
to paint a similar "no left-turn/safety island" at the intersection of Boyette
Street and University Drive?
Point Five: As on the "off-ramp" of Wellborn Road, the 30 mph speed limit
signs which have been damaged or maliciously removed from University Drive
during the past six or eight years, have never been replaced. From a pedestrian
safety and county risk-management perspective, don't you think it would be
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 19 of 20
prudent and cost effective to immediately begin prominently posting the legal
30 mph__speed _ limit signs as_ well as posting `Watch for Pedestrian" sins along
Northgate (including the stretch in front of Kinkos, Super Sub, etc.)?
Thank you in advance for your attention in this matter of the health and safety
of TAMU students like myself, and the financial risk of the city of College Station and
individual drivers entering the Northgate area from higher speed zones. In addition,
the Northgate business owners area would certainly benefit from more
students safely able to cross University Drive in an area where parking is currently
deficient.
Sincerely,
Michael D. Osterbuhr, Doctoral Student
(and frequent customer of the
Northgate businesses)
4013 Woodbriar Drive
Bryan, TX 77802-3639
(409) 776-2896
Xc: C.S. Risk Management Office and Northgate Business Owners
P&Z Minutes March 4, 1999 Page 20 of 20