TITLE
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and possibly take action to approve the Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption project in FY20 in the amount of $50,000. The project will be funded through a budget capacity transfer from GL account code 34744136-67750-40027 (SR 347 to SR 238 Truck By-pass) to 35022528-67730-32031. Discussion and Action.
AGENDA ITEM DESCRIPTION
The basis of this project is to install a pre-emption system called Opticom to the traffic signal devices and allows the normal operation of traffic lights to be preempted. 12 intersections on the 347 corrider through the city have been identified to receive these units.
When the traffic light is manipulated in the path of an emergency vehicle, conflicting traffic will be halted allowing the emergency vehicle right-of-way, to help reduce response times and enhance traffic safety
Right-of-way conflicts at the intersections will be reduced enhancing safety not only for the firefighters in the responding apparatus but the public as well.
The Opticom system works by sending a signal from a responding apparatus that has its light and sirens on to a device on the top of the traffic signal to change the traffic light to “green”. Being able to control the “green” light will have a dramatic affect on increasing safety for responding apparatus and the public. An added benefit will be reflected in reducing response times and possible intersection collisions.
The fire department purchased some hardware previously and the quote for the additional required hardware is attached ($20,313.00 no tax included) to complete the project. It is estimated that an additional $30,000.00 will be needed for the installation of the preemtion devices.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval