Galesburg’s Traffic Advisory Committee recommended further study on a proposed crosswalk near the Knox County YMCA on West Carl Sandburg Drive and other safety measures in its December report.
The committee reviewed seven items, relying on speed data, crash records, sight distance measurements, MUTCD standards and field observations. Recommendations ranged from immediate actions to no change and further study.
Key items include:
Speeding on Iowa Avenue
Multiple residents requested action on speeding. The speed limit is 20 mph. Data collected Nov. 24-Dec. 1 showed the 85th percentile speed at 22 mph, with 23.2% of 982 vehicles exceeding the limit. Speed limit signs are posted entering from Michigan Avenue and East Knox Street. The committee found enforcement most appropriate. Recommendation: Increased police enforcement.
Yield signs at Lane and Brown avenues
A resident requested replacing yield signs on Lane Avenue with stop signs due to speeding concerns. The statutory speed limit is 30 mph. Data collected Dec. 3-10 showed the 85th percentile speed at 21 mph, with no vehicles exceeding 30 mph. Sight distance measured 157 feet, exceeding the required 140 feet. Per MUTCD, stop or yield signs shall not be used for speed control. Recommendation: No change.
Crosswalk on West Carl Sandburg Drive
A resident requested a crosswalk in front of Hollow Tree Apartments and the Knox County YMCA. The committee reviewed a conceptual plan and IDOT-based cost estimate for a crosswalk with pedestrian refuge island, totaling approximately $98,455. Items include concrete median construction, pavement and sidewalk removal, detectable warnings and traffic control. Members expressed support but noted formal budgeting is required. The committee also requested detailed design for potential conversion to a three-lane section with dedicated bike lanes. Recommendation: Further study on budgeting and roadway design.
Stop signs at Marston and Highland avenues
Alderman Greg Saul requested signage at uncontrolled T-intersections with North Street. No crashes reported in three years. Sightlines are obstructed by shrubbery at Highland Avenue and a tree at Marston Avenue. Nearby blocks have four-way stops. Per MUTCD, stop control is warranted for restricted views requiring road users to stop. Recommendation: Install stop signs on Marston and Highland avenues at North Street.
Willard Street direction
A Silas Willard Elementary School bus driver requested one-way southbound operation from Yates to Fifer streets due to congestion during school hours. The 27-foot-wide street allows parking on both sides. Four crashes occurred at Willard and Fifer in five years, including one pedestrian incident. A Dec. 10 observation showed minimal morning delays but afternoon pick-up congestion when both sides are parked, reducing the street to one lane. Restricting east-side parking during school hours was identified as a potential solution. Recommendation: Further study including homeowner parking survey.
Parking for Custer Auto on South Chambers Street
Request to address garage access limited by on-street parking in the 500 block. The 30-foot-wide street has existing no-parking zones on both sides during portions of the day. One nearby residence lacks a driveway. The committee found current restrictions sufficient. Recommendation: No change.
Speed limit on South Lake Storey Road
A resident requested reducing the speed limit from 45 mph to 35 mph starting at North Henderson Street. The segment is a county highway within city limits. Current ordinance matches county’s 45 mph zone for the first 2,700 feet west. Speed data collection is ongoing. Recommendation: Further study including Knox County consultation.
Recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration.
