At the Monday night, Aug. 5 Oakdale City Council meeting, City Manager Bryan Whitemyer provided an update on the plans for the intersection of Stearns Road and State Route 108. The update centered on the potential installation of a roundabout at this intersection, a solution Caltrans is advocating for, based on traffic data and safety considerations.
The intersection, located just east of Oakdale, has been a site of concern due to a history of serious accidents. The offset alignment of North and South Stearns has contributed to a pattern of rear-end collisions and vehicles being pushed into oncoming traffic. With increasing development and traffic in the area, addressing these safety issues has become a priority.
In response to these concerns, Caltrans proposed a roundabout as the preferred solution, citing its effectiveness in reducing severe accidents compared to traditional signalized intersections. Whitemyer noted that while initial proposals included a conventional signalized intersection, Caltrans was firm in its stance that a roundabout would better manage the high-speed traffic entering Oakdale.
Whitemyer highlighted that roundabouts reduce the likelihood of severe accidents, as the low-speed, circular design minimizes the impact of collisions. This is in contrast to the potentially catastrophic outcomes at signalized intersections, where red-light running – an increasingly common occurrence – can lead to major injuries or fatalities.
Caltrans has already implemented roundabouts on other state highways and is planning additional installations in areas such as Angels Camp. The agency pointed out that even with grade challenges at the Stearns Road intersection, a roundabout could still be feasible and more efficient in managing traffic flow.
Whitemyer also mentioned that a roundabout could serve as a gateway to Oakdale, potentially featuring community symbols such as a replica of the clock tower or a statue of the iconic Bushwacker. This approach aligns with Oakdale’s vision of creating an inviting entrance to the town while ensuring traffic safety.
The City of Oakdale is continuing to explore options and gather public feedback on the proposed roundabout. Whitemyer emphasized the importance of embracing this change as a proactive measure to improve safety and traffic management as the community grows.
Further updates and public consultations are expected as plans develop, ensuring that the community is informed and engaged in the decision-making process.
Future Growth
Meanwhile, in a special meeting on July 30, members of the city council deliberated on a resolution that could significantly expand municipal office space to accommodate the city’s growth.
City Manager Whitemyer proposed the acquisition of a property at 285 N. Third Ave., a building formerly occupied by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). The building, which served as a customer service center until its closure in 2020, is now on the market for a total of $525,000.
After a short discussion and one dissenting public comment, council members approved the purchase.
According to the city’s assessment, Oakdale, with a population that has surged by over 49 percent since 2000 to 23,120 residents, is in pressing need of additional office space. The current city hall has reached its capacity with no further room for expansion.
The 3,000 square foot North Third property, noted for its excellent condition and proximity to the current city hall, is considered ideal for meeting the city’s needs. The proposed financing for the purchase will come from several city funds: $262,500 from the General Government Capital Facility Fund, and $131,250 each from the Sewer and Water Capital Replacement Funds.
Additionally, the city plans to allocate $25,000 for minor repairs and closing costs, following a building assessment that highlighted some necessary improvements, including exterior repairs and structural enhancements to the property’s trellis.
This acquisition will mark a strategic step in preparing Oakdale for continued growth and development.
