SE Valley Times

The Chandler City Council is implementing measures to manage the frequency of traffic restrictions by proposing an ordinance aimed at improving coordination of temporary road closures. The council has introduced Ordinance No. 5115, which outlines the Right of Way Temporary Use Management Program. This ordinance is scheduled for a vote on January 9, 2025, and, if approved, will be enacted 30 days later.

The ordinance seeks to streamline the use of temporary traffic restrictions necessary for construction activities. Each year, Chandler issues around 1,900 permits for such work involving roads, developments, and utilities.

During a City Council work session in May 2024, discussions centered on project coordination and driver safety concerning road restrictions. Following this session, staff from the Transportation Engineering Division devised two programs to enhance road construction management.

The first program introduces a fee structure designed to encourage timely completion of work by contractors and hold them accountable if they fail to meet deadlines. The second program establishes policies and procedures for managing temporary traffic control in work areas within Chandler’s public right-of-way. This initiative aims to ensure safety while minimizing public inconvenience.

Under this ordinance, Chandler will have the authority to collect fees that include a non-refundable permit fee intended to cover plan review and inspection costs. Additionally, contractors must provide a refundable deposit based on project size for lane restrictions or closures. The deposit is returned if work meets specifications without damaging city infrastructure.

Violations of this ordinance may occur if contractors use the right of way without an approved permit or fail to adhere to specified limits or times. Traffic restriction at signalized intersections without active work or police presence could also result in violations.

Contractors engaged in city-owned projects are required to comply with these regulations and obtain permits; however, application fees and deposits are waived as these are addressed in specific contracts.