Traffic calming

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Traffic calming refers to a set of strategies used by urban planners and traffic engineers to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. These measures are typically implemented in residential neighborhoods and urban areas to create safer and more livable streets.

Objectives

The primary objectives of traffic calming are to:

• Reduce vehicle speeds
• Decrease traffic volume
• Enhance safety for non-motorized users
• Improve the quality of life in residential areas

Techniques

Traffic calming techniques can be categorized into three main types: vertical deflections, horizontal shifts, and roadway narrowing.

Vertical Deflections

• Speed bumps - Raised areas placed across the road to slow down vehicles.
• Speed tables - Flat-topped speed bumps that are longer and can accommodate pedestrian crossings.
• Raised crosswalks - Elevated pedestrian crossings that also act as speed tables.
• Raised intersections - Entire intersections elevated to slow traffic and improve pedestrian visibility.

Horizontal Shifts

• Chicanes - Series of alternating curb extensions or islands that create a serpentine path.
• Lateral shifts - Realignment of the road to create a bend or curve.
• Traffic circles - Circular intersections that slow down traffic and reduce conflict points.

Roadway Narrowing

• Chokers - Curb extensions that narrow the roadway at specific points.
• Center island narrowing - Raised islands in the center of the road that narrow the travel lanes.
• Road diets - Reduction in the number of travel lanes, often accompanied by the addition of bike lanes or wider sidewalks.

Benefits

Traffic calming measures offer several benefits, including:

• Reduced vehicle speeds and traffic volumes
• Enhanced safety for pedestrians and cyclists
• Lower noise levels and improved air quality
• Increased property values and community cohesion

Challenges

Implementing traffic calming measures can also present challenges, such as:

• Potential delays for emergency vehicles
• Increased travel time for motorists
• Higher implementation and maintenance costs
• Possible opposition from residents and businesses

Related Pages

• Urban planning
• Pedestrian safety
• Cycling infrastructure
• Complete streets
• Road safety