By Giuseppe Ricapito, The Marin Independent Journal, Novato, Calif. The Tribune Content Agency
The San Anselmo Town Council has authorized contracts for two pedestrian safety projects along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard.
One project will modify a signal to reduce potential traffic conflicts at Sierra Avenue and Broadmoor Avenue. The other will replace a rectangular rapid flashing beacon with a pedestrian hybrid beacon at the crosswalk at Saunders Avenue.
The overall cost for the projects is approximately $250,000. Sean Condry, the town's public works and building director, said both came in below engineers' estimates.
"This is a project we have been working on for some time," said Condry. "I think it's a no-brainer."
Town officials have been concerned about pedestrian and traffic safety for some time. Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, the town's most heavily used transportation corridor, is known for close calls involving cyclists or walkers. The project area is near Archie Williams High School.
Councilmember Brian Colbert said the area is dangerous because of drivers in outer lanes being unable to spot cyclists.
"I am really pleased this is coming forward," Colbert said.
Councilmember Alexis Fineman said hybrid crosswalks have become more common in the county.
"This has also been five years in the making," said Fineman. "I am really glad they're coming to San Anselmo."
The Town Council approved the projects in late August. The bids were opened on Oct. 1.
DC Electric Group Inc. in Cotati won the traffic light project with a low bid of $89,910. The total project cost is estimated at $103,910 with construction management costs and contingency.
The town's initial estimate was around $110,000. The highest bids came in at about $137,000.
Columbia Electric Inc. in San Leandro won the crosswalk project with a low bid of $120,759.20. The total project cost, including management and a contingency, is estimated to be $142,759.
The town's initial estimate was around $150,000. The highest bids came in at about $189,000.
Construction on both projects is expected to begin in November or December and conclude in January.
"The more attention we can get from the drivers is going to be helpful," Councilmember Steve Burdo said.