While the technical review of this intersection did not identify any specific capacity problems, it was clear that the operation of the intersection was confusing and awkward. It also presented some safety concerns that would be exacerbated as traffic volumes increase in the area in the future. It was therefore clear to Bunt & Associates that this in6ersection should be improved as part of the short term program.
A series of 11 different alternatives were developed for review by the Town as illustrated on Exhibits 4-3A and 4-3B. Each alternative presented a different means to resolve the intersection complexity, with the eventual recommendation of Option 4 being presented as the preferred solution. Option 4 would see a cul-de-sac added on 53rd Street south of 54th Avenue to eliminate the 5-way intersection. The remaining four leg intersection should then be modified slightly so as to improve sight lines, though it would function as a four leg intersection from this point forward. As a corollary to this, it is also recommended that the Town consider a cul-de-sac on 54th Avenue west of 53rd Street to further improve the operation of the intersection and to discourage through traffic on 54th Avenue west of 53rd Street. Note that of the two cul-de-sacs, the latter is less critical and is therefore not specifically recommended as an immediate short term improvement.