Written by: Jame Mark Estrada
Introduction: The proposed construction of a Chipotle Mexican Grill at the intersection of SE 28th Street and SE California Avenue in Topeka, Kansas, has sparked interest in understanding the potential traffic implications of this development. A Traffic Impact Statement prepared by Kaw Valley Engineering, Inc. sheds light on the anticipated effects of introducing a fast-food establishment with a mobile digital order pick-up lane in this area.
Development Description: The Chipotle location is planned to be situated north of an existing fueling station and west of a Dillon's grocery store. The project involves the removal of the current concrete parking lot to make way for a redesigned site layout. Notably, the site will offer 20 parking stalls to the east of the restaurant, with shared parking options available. The digital order pick-up lane, designed to accommodate seven vehicles, will route around the north side of the building, ensuring efficient customer service without hindering parking lot mobility.
Traffic Analysis: The Traffic Impact Statement delves into the expected traffic patterns and volumes associated with the Chipotle establishment. Data from a similar Chipotle location in Obetz, Ohio, suggests varying vehicle counts throughout the week, with peak hours witnessing higher traffic flow. The analysis also considers the impact on adjacent street networks, highlighting the likelihood of traffic gravitating towards SE California Avenue and SE 28th Street accesses. The report indicates that the existing roadways in the vicinity appear capable of supporting the project without significant modifications.
Trip Generation and Distribution: The ITE Trip Generation data provided in the report offers insights into the expected daily traffic estimates for the Chipotle location. The analysis accounts for the nature of the establishment as a fast-food outlet with a drive-thru, projecting traffic volumes for different times of the day. Additionally, the report discusses the anticipated trip distribution, emphasizing the minimal impact on the adjacent street network due to the high percentage of pass-by trips and multiple access points available.
Conclusion: The Traffic Impact Statement for the proposed Chipotle Mexican Grill at SE 28th Street and SE California Avenue in Topeka, Kansas, provides a comprehensive overview of the potential traffic implications of the development. By analyzing existing data, projecting traffic volumes, and considering trip generation patterns, the report offers valuable insights into how the introduction of Chipotle may influence traffic flow in the area. Overall, the analysis suggests that the impact on the adjacent street network is likely to be manageable, given the existing road infrastructure and access points available.
This article highlights the importance of conducting thorough traffic impact assessments for new developments to ensure efficient traffic management and safe transportation infrastructure in growing urban areas.
Comments