​​​GHG-16

Implement Traffic Calming Measures

Measure

The County will implement traffic calming measures to decrease traffic volumes and speeds and increase biking and walking trips by residents.

Traffic calming measures, such as marked crosswalks, count-down signal timers, curb extensions, speed tables, raised crosswalks, raised intersections, median islands, tight corner radii, roundabouts or mini circles, on-street parking, planter strips with street trees, and bulb-outs, have been shown to divert traffic from local streets and decrease vehicle speeds when present. In turn, those who would otherwise be deterred by high traffic volumes and speeds on local roads are more likely to walk and bike to destinations. Through traffic calming measure requirements for new roadway development and the inclusion of traffic calming features on existing roadways and intersections, the County can encourage residents to take more trips by active transportation modes such as biking and walking.​


​​​​​​​​​Started
The efforts for this measure have started. ​​

Implementation

The County could implement this measure through the following actions:

  • ​Develop a complete streets policy and implementation program that is consistent with the SACOG Policy to Practice Cycle and that incorporates traffic calming measures.

  • Review and potentially update County development standards for new roadways and existing roadway improvements to include traffic calming measures.
  • Install a variety of traffic calming measures on streets and intersections, prioritizing measures proven to promote trips by active transportation modes.
  • Include traffic calming measures in, and fund them with, a potential VMT mitigation program described in GHG-11 (e.g., VMT mitigation fee, bank, or exchange).

Timeframe: Long term​

GHG Reduction Potential: 927 MT CO2e per year by 2030

Sec​t​or: Vehicles - On-Road

Target Indicator: 10 percent of arterials, collectors, and intersections within existing urbanized areas improved by 2026 and 25 percent of arterials, collectors, and intersections improved by 2030.​

​Status of Implementation

The Department of Transportation continuously evaluates the need for traffic calming measures for new development, through the entitlement and plan check process. For existing development, the Department of Transportation manages the N​eighb​orhoo​d Tr​affic Management Program (NTMP). Residents may petition for traffic calming measures through the NTMP process.

Updated 10/25/2023