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AUTHORIZATION FOR EMERGENCY REPAIRS TO THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL AT THE INTERSECTION OF CLASSEN BOULEVARD AND BOYD STREET BY TRAFFIC SIGNALS, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,670 AND BUDGET APPROPRIATION.
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BACKGROUND: The City of Norman Traffic Control Division currently maintains 136 traffic signals throughout the City. Each of these signalized intersections operates with a great deal of wiring both underground and overhead. Underground wiring is generally contained within conduits of varying sizes. Over time, underground conduits and the wiring contained therein can fail for a variety of reasons. The freeze/thaw extremes of the ground in which the conduit is laid is particularly hard on the conduit and the wire.
Last month, City Traffic Signal Technicians were dispatched to the intersection of Classen Boulevard and Boyd Street in response to a citizen complaint dealing with a malfunctioning pedestrian push button. During the inspection, staff found that the underground conduit was damaged due to the collapse of a pull box used to access the wiring. When attempting to replace the damaged wiring, staff also discovered the underground conduits across the south and west legs of the intersection had also collapsed, making impossible the installation of the new wiring. Crews were able to make short-term emergency repairs, which are only temporary. As we enter the rainy period in Norman, our crews anticipate routine short circuits involving water and the defective wiring, which will cause the signal to malfunction. The existing conduit and wiring was installed in the early 1970’s.
DISCUSSION: In order to permanently repair the conduit and wiring systems, staff has determined that the south and west legs of the intersection need new conduit, pull boxes and electric wire. Written quotes were solicited from the three signal contractors who routinely work in Norman. The following quotes were provided:
Traffic Signals, Inc. of Edmond - $30,670
Midstate Traffic C...
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