Traffic Calming

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The City adopted its Traffic Calming Policy on July 14, 2008, to address concerns related to speeding and cut-through traffic on neighborhood streets. This policy is implemented using a data-driven approach in conjunction with Speed Compliance Observation and Performance Evaluator (SCOPE) and Speed Monitoring Awareness Radar Tool (SMART) units.

Speed Compliance Observation and Performance Evaluator (SCOPE)

The SCOPE unit is a compact, discreet device designed to detect vehicles, track their speeds, and log speed data. Unlike speed display signs, SCOPE does not have a visual readout and is solely used for collecting speed-volume data.

When a speeding concern is reported, the City will schedule the SCOPE unit for deployment at the requested location. The device will collect data on at least two weekdays when schools are in session and traffic is operating under normal conditions without interruptions. Once data collection is complete, the Transportation and Mobility Team will analyze the findings and provide recommendations to address any identified speeding concerns.

To request a SCOPE unit deployment to a specific location, please contact Traffic Operations at 972-744-4330.

Speed Monitoring Awareness Radar Tool (SMART)

The SMART unit is a speed feedback sign that mounts on standard city sign poles. As vehicles pass by, the digital display shows the driver's current speed. The system can be adjusted to trigger a blinking display or strobe light if a vehicle exceeds a set speed limit.

The SMART unit is primarily used for motorist education, improving driver awareness of vehicle speed and encouraging compliance with speed limits. It also serves as a valuable tool for residents to observe real-time vehicle speeds on their streets, addressing the common perception that vehicles appear to be traveling faster than they actually are.

Following a SCOPE speed study, the City maintains a prioritized list of locations where speed feedback signs have been recommended. SMART units will be deployed based on the order of requests received.

Traffic Calming Process

The Transportation and Mobility Team (T&M) follows a step-by-step evaluation process before considering any location for engineering speed calming measures such as speed bumps or cushions.

  1. Traffic Calming will be considered:
    • If there is speeding along a certain roadway segment
    • And, if continued Education and Enforcement does not address the issue
    • And, if the roadway segment meets the eligibility criteria
  2. Resident representative will submit application for traffic calming:
    • Fee for Review of Traffic Calming Request
    • Includes resident petition of impacted street(s)
  3. City will identify options for traffic calming measures and recommend an appropriate solution
  4. City will meet with impacted residents (community meeting) to: 
    • Review options and staff recommendations
    • Gain consensus on a recommended traffic calming concept
  5. Engineering Design and Construction
  6. Evaluation of Effectiveness 

For a detailed overview of the City's Traffic Calming Policy, including full program guidelines and eligibility criteria, [click here].

For further inquiries or to submit a request, please contact the Traffic Operations Team at 972-744-4330.