Traffic Calming

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WHAT IS TRAFFIC CALMING?

Traffic calming is the combination of mainly physical measures, as well as educational programs and enhanced enforcement that reduce the negative effects of motor vehicle use, alter driver behavior and improve conditions for non-motorized street users. Please refer to the following links for:

2023-0928 Traffic Calming Manual – Full document containing detailed explanation of Program, Flow Chart, Community Action request Form (CARF), and pros/cons of each Level 1 and Level II Measures.

MULTIPLE PURPOSES FOR TRAFFIC CALMING

The immediate purpose of traffic calming is to reduce the speed and volume of traffic to acceptable levels. Reductions in traffic speed and volume, however, are just means to other ends such as traffic safety and active street life. Traffic calming is undertaken for many different reasons, including:

Reducing through traffic
Reducing truck traffic
Reducing the occurrence of excessive speeding
Reducing noise, vibration and air pollution
Reducing accidents
Providing safer environment for pedestrians and children
Reducing crime
Supporting redevelopment.

COMMUNITY LIVABILITY THROUGH TRAFFIC CALMING AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

City staff has specific guidelines on the types of devices that are permitted to be used on City streets. Neighborhood input is essential to the success of any traffic calming project. City staff works closely with residents to identify the problems and develop a solution. There are many factors that will be considered when considering any traffic calming solution:

Accident History
Speed Zone Surveys
Traffic Violation Frequency
Pavement Conditions
Bike Lane Classification
Development/Utility Construction

STUDY ZONE/AREA

The study zone/area is defined as the portion of the neighborhood(s) or entire neighborhood(s) that are affected by traffic calming concerns listed on the CARF. The area will be defined by and agreed on by both City Staff and the Working Group. If the Traffic Calming Request advances to the surveying/voting stage, letters and ballots will be sent to addresses/owners within the study zone/area.

WORK GROUP

The work group consists of members of the affected community and involves a Work Group Lead and at least two other individuals. The Work Group Lead (Captain) is typically the same person that initiates the request/Community Action Request Form.

The Work Group will serve as link between the City and the entire affected community, as defined by the study zone/area limits. It is the responsibility of the Work Group to keep the affected community informed and provide outreach. Failure to keep the community informed and provide outreach may render the Traffic Calming Request void.

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