Why Not a Traffic Light or a Stop Sign?

• Traffic lights and stop signs are designed to control the flow of traffic, not as speed controls or pedestrian safety devices.
• Traffic lights and stop signs can exacerbate already existing speeding problems. Drivers will speed up to make it through a traffic light, and will often ignore a stop sign in a new location. Must have continual police enforcement to be effective.
• Traffic lights cost $40,000 each, are expensive to install and need regular maintenance and a continuous flow of electricity.

Below are some traffic calming devices that can be used to improve safety for both motor vehicles and pedestrians.

Speed Humps...

--Are a modern cousin to the speed bump, but are more attractive and effective.

--Can be adjusted in size and shape in order to achieve a desired speed.

--Are inexpensive, yet their effects can be profound.

Mini Traffic Circles...

--Are small round-abouts placed in the middle of an intersection.

--Can replace traffic lights and stop signs at intersections, improve intersection safety and decrease speeds.

 Sidewalk Extensions (a.k.a. neckdowns or bulbouts)…

--Bring the curb out into the parking lane at the intersection, shortening the crossing distance for pedestrians.

--Force drivers to turn more sharply, thus more slowly.

--Eliminate the ability for aggressive drivers to use the parking lane to pass other drivers at lights.

--Can serve as a 'gateway,' informing motorists that they've gone from one kind of street to another.

Raised Crosswalks…

--Are speed humps at a crosswalk location and provide both speed control and greater pedestrian protection.

--Warn drivers that special care must be taken at intersections for pedestrian safety.

Medians…

--Can be placed in the center of an arterial to reduce the crossing distance, reduce speeds and give pedestrians a refuge area in the middle of a wide arterial

--Arterials can even be turned into boulevards by designing wider medians that include landscaping, and recreational and relaxation opportunities (e.g. play areas and park benches)