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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Quispamsis
Traffic Calming Policy
QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
POLICY STATEMENT
Quispamsis receives complaints each year from the public regarding speeding, traffic short-cutting
through residential neighbourhoods and concerns for the safety of more vulnerable road users such as
pedestrians and cyclists.
In an effort to resolve traffic concerns raised by neighbourhood residents, Town staff looks to work in a
consultative manner with area residents to help identify neighbourhood traffic problems and implement
solutions that are both acceptable and appropriate for the residential street network. This policy
document outlines procedures for initiating, reviewing, funding and implementing neighbourhood traffic
management plans in residential neighbourhoods to address traffic safety concerns. The solutions may
incorporate traditional traffic control techniques, temporary traffic control techniques or permanent
physical 'traffic calming'.
This policy will apply to local roadways only in neighbourhoods of primarily residential land use. The
policy and procedures contained within this document do not apply to arterial roadways or collector
roadways. This will ensure the primary function of those roadways in the Town of Quispamsis to move
traffic is maintained. Safety concerns on arterial roadways or collector roadways will be dealt with on a
case-by-case basis outside of policy.
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1) INTRODUCTION
This document presents a proposed Neighbourhood Traffic Calming policy for the town of Quispamsis.
The use of traffic calming measures can reduce the speed and volume of traffic to acceptable levels, as
determined by accepted engineering guidelines, and restore the roadway to its intended function.
Additional benefits are increased traffic safety and liveability of the neighbourhood through the
reduction of vehicular and truck traffic, occurrence of excessive speeding, noise, vibration, air
pollution and collisions, while providing a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
The use of physical traffic calming measures such as traffic circles, speed humps, road narrowing,
raised crosswalks, raised median islands, diverters and partial closures have been used throughout
Europe and North America. In response to its growing popularity and use throughout Canada, the
Transportation Association of Canada (TAC) in collaboration with the Canadian Institute of
Transportation Engineers (ITE) published in 1998 the 'Canadian Guide to Neighbourhood Traffic
Calming'. It provides guidance for transportation professionals in Canada on the use, application and
recommended design standards for various physical traffic calming measures. The guide was designed
to ensure uniformity in application of traffic calming measures throughout Canada and to minimize
liability and maximize safety. This policy is intended to define how and when the town of Quispamsis
will apply material contained in the 'Canadian Guide to Neighbourhood Traffic Calming'.
Town Engineering Staff has studied several programs in other communities and it is apparent from
these studies that each community approaches Traffic Calming in a different way. The most prevalent
technique among successful, long standing programs is a comprehensive approach that does not rely
on any single solution or strategy.
2) GOALS
In an effort to address traffic concerns in neighbourhoods, the Quispamsis Neighbourhood Traffic
Calming policy shall address the following goals:
Improve public safety.
Encourage roadways to function as intended.
Improve liveability of neighbourhoods
3) OBJECTIVES
Objectives to achieve the above goals will include:
Reduce excessive vehicle speeds
Discourage short-cutting traffic.
Minimize conflicts between road users.
Improve the neighbourhood environment
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4) PRINCIPLES OF TRAFFIC CALMING
The 'Canadian Guide to Neighbourhood Traffic Calming' outlines twelve (12) principles that should be
applied when selecting and implementing traffic calming measures. This will ensure appropriate traffic
calming measures are selected, that they are compatible with our community's needs and any potential
negative impacts are minimized. While each situation is unique, the 'principles' of traffic calming are
relevant to each situation. Application of these principles will maximize effectiveness of the traffic
calming plans and help build community acceptance and support of the final traffic calming plans.
i) Identify traffic problem(s). It is important to identify the traffic problem(s) so the appropriate traffic
calming measures are selected.
ii) Quantify the problem. To select the appropriate measures, it is important to quantify the extent of
the problem. This requires gathering data by conducting traffic counts, vehicle classification counts, speed
studies, license plate traces and collecting collision statistics. These studies will be conducted as per
accepted Engineering practices.
iii) Consider improvements to the arterial road network first. There are options available to
improve operations on the arterial road network (e.g. signal timing, lane designations). Prior to
implementing traffic calming measures on residential roadways, where arterial road improvements are
available, they will be considered.
iv) Minimize impacts on adjacent residential roadways. Prior to considering traffic calming
measures for a particular roadway, any potential negative impact on adjacent roadways will be
considered.
v) Avoid restricting neighbourhood access. Diverters, barriers and closures can restrict access for
people who live or work on a particular roadway and have a significant impact on the delivery of
emergency services, public transit, etc.
vi) Use self-enforcing measures. Traffic calming measures which maintain a 24-hour presence and do
not require police enforcement to ensure compliance are preferable. The use of physical traffic calming
measures will also ensure police resources are available for higher priority community concerns such as
arterial roadways.
vii) Target automobiles and trucks. The purpose of traffic calming is to reduce the negative effects of
motor vehicles while improving conditions for other road users. Traffic calming measures will be designed
to permit cyclists and pedestrians to travel unaffected, while slowing down motor vehicles.
viii) Maintain and minimize impacts on delivery of emergency services, public transit and
other City services (e.g. waste collection, winter maintenance, roadway sweeping, school
buses) When selecting traffic calming measures, staff will strive to balance the needs of these services
with slowing traffic on residential roadways.
ix) Use cost-effective measures. Recognizing the importance for fiscal responsibility, staff will focus on
using cost-effective measures. This will ensure that funding can be allocated appropriately and prioritized
for consideration in the budget process.
x) Encourage public participation and community support. Resident input and suggestion as to
the cause of traffic problems, and possible solutions will be encouraged. An open, public process will
ensure that residents concerns are heard and appropriate solutions are selected and implemented.
xi) Support other town of Quispamsis strategic planning documents including the Municipal
Plan, Zoning Bylaw and Traffic Bylaw. This will ensure the selection and implementation of traffic
calming measures complement other town planning policies.
xii) Monitor and follow-up. Comparable traffic volume, speed and collision data will be collected before
and after implementation. In addition, resident, town and emergency services feedback will be solicited in
an effort to measure the effectiveness of traffic calming measures.
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5) APPROACH
The Quispamsis Traffic calming Policy will focus on three kinds of possible solutions:
i)
Education alerts people to ways they can help ease traffic problems, such as driving
slower in residential areas, using alternative modes of transportation, and obeying all
traffic and pedestrian laws.
ii)
Enforcement enlists the help of the Rothesay Regional Police Force as well as Engineering
and Works Staff to focus their efforts on the problem areas and increase community
awareness of speeding problems.
iii)
Engineering tools include a variety of traffic calming devices that can reduce speed,
decrease volumes, and improve safety. For example, speed humps and traffic circles can be
used to slow traffic, and curb extensions can reduce speeds and pedestrian crossing
distances to increase safety.
The Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program is a process, rather than a fixed solution where all of these
approaches are carefully considered when analyzing a residential neighborhood street for problems and
potential traffic calming solutions. Residents also help identify specific neighborhood characteristics that
should be taken into account when deciding what type of traffic calming is necessary. The town proposes
to work closely with all interested citizens to find solutions that best serve the interests of the
neighborhood and reduce the identified problem(s). Thus, ongoing communication and evaluation are
essential to the success of the effort and will help ensure that neighborhood safety concerns are addressed
in an effective and sustainable manner.
All eligible traffic calming projects will be wholly funded from General Capital Budget. This is in accord
with what happens in the majority of other municipalities which have traffic calming programs. Traffic
calming applications which do not meet eligibility criteria or where the majority of motorists speeding
through a neighbourhood live in that neighbourhood, may be more appropriately considered for a local
improvement program as a neighbourhood enhancement or street beautification project.
There are three distinct categories of the traffic calming program. The Program is designed to cover the
full spectrum of measures by providing short, intermediate and long term solutions.
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6) INITIATING TRAFFIC CALMING REQUESTS
Residents who have a traffic-related concern within their neighbourhood will submit in writing their
request for a traffic review to the Town. The request, initiated by an individual or group of residents, may
specify one or several residential or local roadways within a neighbourhood. Staff may recommend that
adjacent residential roadways be included in the traffic review that will likely be impacted by traffic
calming on the target roadway(s) within the neighbourhood. Staff will deal with requests on a first-come-
first-serve basis.
This will require the applicants, who can be residents, neighbourhood groups or community associations
to pick up an application form from the Engineering Department at the Town Hall or online at
www.quispamsis.ca (Appendix A is a copy of this application form). The applicants provide the
background information for the application which includes identification of issues (not solutions), a
description of the area affected and information on any traffic strategies previously employed in the area.
The completed application form should be returned to the Engineering Department.
The Town will review each application to determine the appropriate response. The person or group
making the original request or complaint will be notified in writing by the Town of the action the Town
intends to take regarding the request. Requests for traffic calming improvements will proceed to the
evaluation phase to determine if all qualifying criteria are met. Locations which clearly do not meet
traffic calming criteria will be reviewed by the Town for speed enforcement or other traffic engineering
solutions.
If not already collected, relevant traffic data will be collected during the evaluation phase. The evaluation
phase involves the collection of data including street classification, volume, speed, traffic crash history,
and other relevant information. This information will be collected and evaluated by the Engineering
Department.
A Neighborhood meeting is held to determine goals of the town's traffic calming program, initiate
community education, initiate staff investigation of non-intrusive traffic calming measures, discuss
options, hear residents concerns and form a Neighbourhood Traffic Committee.
One of the ways to help meet the goals of improving public safety in dealing with traffic complaints is to
assure residents that the requests for traffic calming can be handled in a timely fashion. Accordingly,
rather than waiting an interminable time to get an application reviewed, and when a traffic problem can
be addressed using Level 1 Strategies as outline in this policy, the Town will notify the Neighborhood
Traffic Committee and petition originator via letter. No further action is required for the Town to go
ahead with Phase 1 Strategies for the area.
If the problem is to be addressed using Level 2 or 3 tools, the Town will require acknowledgement from
affected residents before proceeding. Certain Level 2 and 3 tools require extensive design. In addition, a
public meeting is held where the proposed traffic calming measure is presented to the neighborhood and
questions are taken. Prior to this meeting, residents will receive a ballot with which to vote on the
proposed measure.
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7) STRATEGIES
The Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program is broken down into three different levels. Level 1 consists
primarily of the first two "E's", education and enforcement. Level 2 involves a use of short term measures
intended to examine effectiveness of more permanent solutions and to give residents an indication of the
impact these permanent measures will have. Level Three involves the full implementation of the third
"E", Engineering, and design and installation of traffic calming devices.
i)
LEVEL 1 Strategies
Many neighborhood traffic safety concerns will be alleviated during Level 1. Level 1 strategies may not
require extensive construction, yet could be effective means to reduce traffic impacts on neighborhood
streets
a) Speed Watch - The Town of Quispamsis Engineering Department will set up a traffic monitoring
station to record the speed of the vehicles, and where possible, the hour of the day the speeding
infractions occur. This information will be forwarded to the Rothesay Regional Police to request
placement of their readerboard/radar display to show the neighbours just how fast they are going.
This helps to educate drivers, including neighborhood residents, of the posted speed limit. These
types of programs are weather dependant as snow and ice do not permit placement of surface
mounted units.
b) Evaluate Existing Signage - The Town of Quispamsis Engineering Department will follow up
with an evaluation of the streets in question to ensure the streets are properly posted and to
determine if any geometric or design issues may warrant consideration for reduction of the posted
speed limit. Staff will also review pavement markings to determine if they need to be introduced,
enhanced or refreshed. i.e. Stop Bars, crosswalks, painted lane narrowings.
c) Educational Materials - In conjunction with the Rothesay Regional Police Department, the
Town staff will look to develop educational materials to be posted on the town's web page,
incorporated into the town's newsletters or handed out to the residents on the residential street in
question in an attempt to slow down traffic in the neighborhood.
d) Specialized Enforcement - The Rothesay Regional Police Department /Traffic Division will
target their enforcement efforts utilizing the speed study results from Quispamsis Engineering
Department.
e) Enhanced Visibility - The Public Works Department can abate vegetation that may be blocking
visibility from vehicles, bicyclists and pedestrians.
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f) Neighborhood Pace Car Pledges - members of the community demonstrate their willingness to
follow rules of the road and become courteous drivers as an example to others.
g) Neighborhood Association - The town will request the residents of the affected subdivision to
form a Neighbourhood Advisory Committee to assist in addressing traffic problems. Their role will
be to disseminate information to surrounding neighbours, serve as point of first contact for
information concerning the Traffic Calming Program, meeting with town or Police officials
regarding the program or to discuss potential Level 1 educational approaches. This committee will
also serve as contact should request evolve into a Level 2 or 3 Approach.
h) StreetScape Projects - some subdivisions may be suited for consideration of "streetscape"
projects where the neighbourhood introduces increased landscape adjacent to the roadway, on-
street parking, local art or community focus projects, or other innovative approaches to creating a
neighbourhood friendly area.
If the these strategies fail to resolve the problem, then residents could apply for an engineering solution,
namely the application of temporary engineered traffic calming strategies, as described in Level 2.
All Way Stop signs are NOT appropriate for traffic calming and will not be considered as a
Level 1 strategy.
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ii)
LEVEL 2 -- TEMPORARY TRAFFIC CALMING TREATMENTS
After Level 1 items have been implemented or if it is determined by the Town Engineer that additional
Level 1 solutions are unnecessary or inappropriate, temporary traffic calming devices may be considered.
Temporary traffic calming devices are available in a number of designs including speed tables, traffic
circles, speed humps and speed cushions (see description Appendix B). They are rubber or composite
devices in the same configuration as permanent traffic calming devices but are bolted to the ground and
can be more easily installed and removed.
Temporary traffic calming devices serve the same function as permanent devices, and are useful when
testing their effectiveness in reducing speeding and improving safety. They offer a chance for the
neighborhood to determine if permanent devices are desired, and enable the Town to collect additional
data to determine whether the street/neighborhood is a good candidate for permanent devices.
If, after a 6 month trial period the temporary physical installations have proven effective and desirable,
Level 3 (permanent physical installations) may be considered.
a) Petition Process
For Level 2 Strategies, the street/neighborhood association will be involved in the review process where it
will be required to see a majority of residents located within the project boundaries indicating that the
majority of residents are in favor of the temporary installations. As with all applications, boundaries will
be identified on a case by case basis and may include residents on other streets in the impacted area.
A public meeting is held where the proposed temporary traffic calming measure is presented to the
neighborhood and questions are taken. Prior to and during this meeting, residents will receive a ballot
with which to vote on the proposed temporary measure.
Area residents will cast their final votes on the traffic calming measure(s) during a one month period that
begins the day of the final neighborhood meeting. At least 50% of the impact area's residents must vote in
the final poll. Of that 50%, at least 2/3 of the votes must be in favor of the project for the project to
advance to final construction.
Temporary devices are 100% funded by the Town if the impacted street meets the minimum criteria as
established in this policy, and has been documented and sufficient funding is available.
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b) Placement
Many physical constraints dictate the placement of temporary traffic calming treatments. Compared with
permanent measures, more latitude exists for the use of temporary speed measures due to their
placement during summer months only. Installation of temporary speed control devices begins in May
each year and removal must take place prior to snowfall; therefore, all of the devices must be removed by
November 1st each year. The following is a list of placement constraints:
- Curves
- Steep grades
- Driveway location
- At least 150m away from intersection
c) Alternate Temporary Measures
In order to address the concerns from residents, Council may look to implement temporary measures
outside of the recommended Traffic Calming Policy such as All-Way Stops, alternate advisory signage or
reduced speed limits.
The measures will only be considered after a formal motion of Council once Level 1 strategies have been
in place for a minimum of 6 months. Prior to any decision of Council, Engineering staff will ensure
Council is provided with data concerning vehicle speeds, volumes and accident history. Council will also
be provided with the recommended warrants for any installation of alternate measures.
Any area where Council directs alternate temporary measures will not qualify for Level 2 or Level 3
approaches until such time as the alternate temporary measures have been removed.
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iii)
LEVEL 3 Permanent Traffic Calming Measures
After LEVEL 1 and 2 items have been implemented, Town staff will again revise collected data, and then
compare it to the previously gathered information. Many neighborhoods should be able to resolve their
traffic problems with Level I solutions. If Town staff or the residents still have concerns about traffic and
the location meets the Town's guidelines, the location will be reviewed for possible installation of
permanent physical devices.
Note, Level 2 can be bypassed with approval of the Council upon recommendation of the Town Engineer if
the neighborhood so desires.
The various data collected will be summarized and analyzed to determine what traffic calming methods
will be recommended for a Level 3 plan. Actual field data and conditions will be compared to the
Quispamsis Neighbourhood Traffic Calming Policy Criteria. The Criteria values are presented in the
following section. It is emphasized that many of these suggested limiting values must be carefully
weighed in the context of their application to problems within the study area. Moreover, experience
gained in the future may suggest changes in these values to better relate to problem definition.
Once a Level 3 implementation plan is developed, a public meeting is held where the proposed permanent
traffic calming measures are presented to the neighborhood and questions are taken. Prior to and during
this meeting, residents will receive a ballot with which to vote on the proposed permanent measures.
Area residents will cast their final votes on the traffic calming measure(s) during a one month period that
begins the day of the final neighborhood meeting. At least 50% of the impact area's residents must vote in
the final poll. Of that 50%, at least 2/3 of the votes must be in favor of the project for the project to
advance to final construction.
If area wide support is demonstrated through the petition process, the Town will implement permanent
Level 3 measures and will prepare, design, and build the improvements in accordance with the plan and
budget allocations.
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8) CRITERIA
As previously noted, the demand for traffic calming can potentially exceed the supply of time and
resources to complete all of them. Accordingly, the Municipality has developed selection criteria, using
information provided by the applicant. In order for any application to be considered eligible it will need to
pass the first set of criteria, using information from the Application Form and Data gathered by Town
Engineering Staff.
When request are made for traffic calming measures, Quispamsis Engineering staff or a designee will
conduct traffic counts on the identified residential streets to measure and document traffic volumes,
speeds, and time periods when speeding may be more prevalent.
The process will involve study area determination, data collection and analyses. Data collection may
consist of one or more areas such as:
Vehicular volume
Speeds
Cut through traffic (Origin-Destination study)
Crash rates
Road alignment and grade
Street or segment classification
Parking
Pedestrian activities
Bicyclist activities
Existing traffic calming measures/traffic control devices
Other physical conditions on roadway or street segment
Staff will also request any relevant traffic or accident data from the Rothesay Regional Police. This data
is used to evaluate the residential street and score it according to the following Neighbourhood Traffic
Calming Policy (NTCP) criteria.
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9) CRITERIA SCORING FOR LOCAL ROADS
Traffic calming projects are selected from those with the highest rankings and meet the minimum
threshold of 11 points. In selecting projects, there are other factors to consider including the project size,
cost, complexity, compatibility with other transportation projects, and budget availability.
Points
Traffic Volume
500- 750 ADT
1
(ADT taken from speed
750- 1000
3
study)
1000 - 1250
5
1250 - 1500
7
1500+
8
Cut-through Volume
20%-30%
2
(From Arterial to Arterial
30%-40%
4
through the neighborhood)
40%-50%
6
50% +
8
Traffic Speeds
0-5 km/h over posted speed
0
(85th Percentile of all
5-7
2
vehicles, both directions,
7-9
4
following Level 1 solutions)
9-10
6
11
8
12+
10
Accident History
0.5-1.0 accidents/year
1
(Reported collisions over 3
1.1-1.5
2
year period in study area)
1.6-2.0
3
2.1-2.5
4
2.6-3.0
5
Over 3.0
6
Schools/Other Ped Generators
Within 0.5 - 1.0 Km
1
(Schools, Parks, Senior Housing)
Within 0.5 Km
2
Traffic calming requests with a preliminary scoring of less than 11 points should not be considered for
Level 2 or 3 measures.
Once a request is made and the required survey results are returned, the identified residential street(s) is
ranked for NTCP funding and the highest scoring streets become the town's top priorities for funding
consideration by Council during the annual budget setting process. Those not selected will be notified,
and applications will be kept for possible selection the following year. Once priorities are established for
an upcoming budget year, there will be a meeting with the neighborhood to discuss the identified
residential street location, potential traffic calming devices that may provide a solution, potential
'shifting' effect on other nearby streets, and potential cost and timing issues associated with installation
of traffic calming devices.
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10) OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
i)
Streets Not Meeting Required Criteria
Should a street not meet required criteria and if the residents elect by ballot to continue to request to the
town to have the Level 2 or Level 3 measures installed, Council will determine if funding is available
accommodate the request. If approved by Council the costs of the design and construction will be shared
by the Town and the residents as follows:
a. The Town will pay any initial costs up to, and including, $10,000.
b. 2. All costs over $10,000 will be shared on a frontage basis with the residents of the affected
area. The residents' share of the costs will be collected in accordance with the Local
Improvement Bylaw in effect at that time.
ii)
Follow Up Study
A follow-up general study of the plan and its effectiveness will be completed within 6 months to a year
following construction of the traffic calming measure(s). The Town reserves the right to remove any traffic
calming measure that is potentially unsafe and impairs the public safety and welfare.
iii)
Device Removal
Once installed, traffic calming devices will generally remain in place unless the town deems the
installation unsafe or if residents petition Council for the removal. Should such cases arise, a procedure
similar to that set out in the application section would be followed with respect to removal of the devices.
iv)
Visual Impacts and Aesthetic Concerns
While some traffic calming devices can have favorable aesthetic impacts, others can be, by their nature,
unsightly. Devices such as speed humps and chokers most often pose no opportunity for the incorporation
of aesthetics and can actually have negative visual impacts. Virtually all Level 2 and 3 traffic calming
actions require reflective devices, signs and striping which may negatively affect the aesthetics of a
neighborhood. In most cases it will be recommended the town install a permanent device unless it meets
minimum aesthetic design standards. These standards consist of installing colored concrete pavers,
landscaping where feasible, and raised curbing.
v)
Increased Maintenance Costs
Street maintenance costs will increase in a few areas. Landscaping associated with such devices as traffic
circles, chokers, neckdowns, and slow points will require regular maintenance. Devices such as speed
humps will have to be reinstalled each time a residential street is overlayed which will increase costs each
hump. Street cleaning and snow removal will also be impacted in areas where traffic calming devices are
used. The heavy nature of these maintenance vehicles and the requirement to have direct contact with
the asphalt surface and this will be affected by the physical changes to the asphalt. Turning movements
are also impacted again potentially delaying these types of operations.
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vi)
Effect on Emergency Vehicles Response Times
Any traffic calming tool that might be effective because it physically controls traffic will generally have a
negative impact on several classes of emergency vehicles. The Town, as well as its residents and
businesses, place a very high priority on minimizing emergency response times. Installation of most
physical traffic calming tools can increase emergency response time. This is especially true for fire
apparatus and ambulances. Because of the heavy weight of fire engines and the delicate instruments and
patients within ambulances, these vehicles must slow when they encounter a hump, severe dip, or sharp
curve. Creating humps, dips, and sharp curves is often precisely the objective being sought by many of the
traffic calming tools. While these maneuvers will cause moderate discomfort and delay for normal
passenger vehicles, they may cause a much greater concern for emergency response vehicles. Some
studies have been done to quantify the effect of traffic calming devices on emergency response time.
These studies show the following average delays to emergency vehicles for certain types of devices:
TYPE OF DEVICE
AMBULANCES
FIRE TRUCKS
Each Speed Hump
2.3-9.7 seconds
3-5 seconds
(Traditional Design)
Each Traffic Circle
Not Available
1.3-10.7 seconds
The Town's Police, and Fire departments have indicated potential concerns these devices may have on
response times. It is proposed the town's implementation process will require a representative from these
protective services conduct an initial review of all proposed changes involving Level 2 and 3 options with
the ability have input on any changes affecting critical access streets. This impact will have to be
addressed for each area for which Level 2 and 3 traffic calming options are requested.
As an alternative, the policy also identifies a speed hump design that minimizes the impacts to emergency
vehicle response. These humps use a grouping of speed cushions that allow wider wheelbase vehicles such
as fire trucks to straddle the vertical deflection portion of the hump. These devices will also be considered
as acceptable in the Traffic Calming Toolbox. More information on the modified humps is shown in
Appendices B and C.
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11)
APPLICABLE TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES
The "Canadian Guide to Neighbourhood Traffic Calming" identifies common measures, which are listed in
Appendix C - Traffic Calming Measures Available for Consideration. In selecting traffic calming
measures for the Town's toolbox, preference will be given to physical traffic calming measures over
regulatory traffic control signing. Traffic calming measures will be selected, based on their intended
benefits, specifically:
Speed reduction - potential to reduce vehicles speeds along a roadway
Volume reduction - potential to reduce through traffic on a roadway
Conflict reduction - potential to reduce vehicle-vehicle conflicts, vehicle-pedestrian conflicts, etc
When selecting appropriate traffic calming measures, staff will make an effort to recommend a
combination of measures. The recommendations will be assessed against the street information gathered
and staff will evaluate potential effectiveness and then modifying, where justified, based on traffic data
and resident feedback.
Quispamsis NTCP traffic calming devices that would be considered appropriate for use on residential
streets include:
* Vertical Deflections
Speed Humps on streets with slopes of less than 8%
Speed Tables where pedestrian trail crossings occur
Speed Cushions
*Horizontal Deflections
Traffic Circles or Islands at uncontrolled intersections
Curb Extensions ( e.g. Bulb-outs) at intersections or mid-block
* Street Narrowing
Chicanes, Chokers at intersections or mid-block
* Neighborhood Entrance Treatments
Gateway treatments
Related street-scaping (street furniture, lighting, landscaping, etc.)
Raised or textured Crosswalks
Center Medians
* Stop signs are NOT recommended for permanent traffic calming or speed control (See
below).
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12) TRAFFIC CALMING TOOLS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR USE IN THE PROGRAM
There are a few traffic calming tools that are not recommended to be included in the Traffic Calming
Program toolbox. Generally, the tools that are in the toolbox offer more effective results in addressing the
desired outcomes and have fewer negative impacts.
i)
Rumble strips are series of pavement bumps that create a "rumble" effect as cars drive
over them. They are often used to alert drivers as they approach tolls on toll-ways or stop
signs on highways in isolated areas. Rumble strips are not effective as speed control devices
and do little or nothing to discourage cut-through traffic. In addition, due to the noise they
generate, they would be inappropriate to use within neighborhoods.
ii)
Children at Play Signs are commonly requested in neighborhoods; however, they are not
standard traffic control devices and have not been found to be effective in improving the
safety of children. Residential areas commonly have children and the presence of signs does
not change driving behavior in the neighborhood. One of the disadvantages of the Children
at Play sign is that they can create false sense of security, which can increase the potential
for accidents and injuries. If the safety of children is the major concern in a neighborhood or
at a specific location, there are more effective tools that can be used to improve safety.
iii)
Stop signs are not traffic calming devices. Studies have shown that stop signs that do not
meet established criteria have a higher violation rate. Studies also show that vehicle speeds
after the vehicle has passed through an unwarranted stop controlled intersection are as
high, and occasionally higher, than without a stop sign, as motorists try to "make up" time
lost at the stop sign. The acceleration and deceleration near stop signs generates noise and
adversely affect air quality. Inappropriate use of stop signs also creates significant delay to
emergency vehicles since they are required to nearly come to a stop to verify that the
intersection is clear of vehicles prior to entering.
iv)
Diverters, street closures, and turn restrictions are measures that alter the existing
transportation circulation system. In developing a solution it is important not to shift the
problem to another neighborhood. Turn restrictions and street closures can cause a
tremendous amount of traffic diversion over a wide area. These types of measures have
impacts that would need to be evaluated in a greater scope than just within a particular
neighborhood. The impacts would include the environmental impacts due to changing the
transportation circulation system. Many other cities have policies that ban or discourage
street closures. For these reasons, diverters, closures and turn restrictions are not
recommended for use as traffic calming measures, but rather should be evaluated as part of
a larger area-wide study if their use is to be considered.
v)
Reduced Speed Zones - Unless justified, lower speed limits do not improve safety and
may in fact increase incidents of aggressive driver behavior. The principles of driver
expectation suggest that if drivers do not recognize a particular speed limit as being
reasonable, those limits will be ignored. They also place unrealistic demands on police
resources for enforcement.
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APPENDIX A
Town of Quispamsis Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
NEIGHBORHOOD REQUEST FORM
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Town of Quispamsis Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
NEIGHBORHOOD REQUEST FORM
Today's Date: ____________________
The purpose of this form is to enable a neighborhood to request a traffic study in accordance with
the Town of Quispamsis's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (NTCP). The NTCP addresses
traffic safety concerns, such as excessive vehicle speeds, non-local traffic and accidents. If you
have such a concern, please fill out and submit this form including as much detail as possible
and attach the names, addresses and signatures representing 50% of the households for the
street(s) requesting action. For larger areas, contact the Engineering Department for a
determination of the petition area.
After completing this form, please submit to:
Town of Quispamsis ATTN: Director of Engineering and Works
P.O.Box21085,
Quispamsis, NB, E2E 4Z4
Phone: (506) 849-5749, Fax: (506) 849-5799
1. Name of Neighborhood or organized group name:____________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Contact Name: _______________________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Day Phone: _________________________________________________________________________
E-mail Address: _____________________________________________________________________
2. Please describe the concerns of the neighborhood, i.e. any traffic or safety issues. Use
additional sheets as necessary.
3. Please describe the specific location of concern, as well as the limits of your neighborhood
and/or of area of concern. A sketch may be included and attached to this sheet.
Level 1 measures must be considered before installing Level 2 or 3 devices like traffic circles and speed humps.
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Town of Quispamsis Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
4. Please provide the names and signatures of at least half of the households in the affected area
who are requesting that a review of this neighborhood and location be performed for the
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. Additional names are welcome and should be attached
on an additional sheet.
Please note the main contact person. Use additional sheets as necessary.
We the undersigned are familiar with the Town of Quispamsis Traffic Calming Policy
and understand the procedures. We hereby certify we reside within the area impacted
and request the town undertake the necessary action to investigate and implement
appropriate traffic calming measures in accordance with the town's traffic calming
program.
Signature
Printed Name
Address
Phone No. /E-mail(Optional)
1. _______________________________________________________________________________________
2. _______________________________________________________________________________________
3. _______________________________________________________________________________________
4. _______________________________________________________________________________________
5. _______________________________________________________________________________________
6. _______________________________________________________________________________________
7. _______________________________________________________________________________________
8. _______________________________________________________________________________________
9. _______________________________________________________________________________________
10. ______________________________________________________________________________________
11.______________________________________________________________________________________
12.______________________________________________________________________________________
13.______________________________________________________________________________________
14.______________________________________________________________________________________
15.______________________________________________________________________________________
16.______________________________________________________________________________________
17.______________________________________________________________________________________
18._______________________________________________________________________________________
19._______________________________________________________________________________________
20._______________________________________________________________________________________
21. ______________________________________________________________________________________
22. ______________________________________________________________________________________
23._______________________________________________________________________________________
24._______________________________________________________________________________________
25._______________________________________________________________________________________
For Town use only
Date Received: ______________
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Appendix B
Temporary Measures of
Traffic Calming Available for Consideration
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Cushion
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed cushion is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed
cushion deflects the wheels and frame of a passing vehicle. The design of speed cushions
forces vehicles to slow down as they ride, with one or both sides of the car on the cushions.
The design allows for wider axle vehicles, such as fire engines, ambulances, and school
buses, to pass over the cushion without any wheel deflection. The purpose of a speed
cushion is to selectively reduce the speed of passenger vehicles. The verticle deflection
caused by the speed cushion is designed to produce an uncomfortable sensation for vehicle
occupants travelling at speeds in excess of the design speed. As a level 2 traffic calming
measure, a speed cushion would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made
from rubber or a similar composite material.
Advantages:
A reduction in vehicle speeds in relation to
cushion spacing:
50 km/h with 125 metre cushion spacing;
40 km/h with 80 metre cushion spacing;
30 km/h with 60 metre cushion spacing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Fire vehicles experience an 8 to 15 seconds
delay per speed cushion.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Hump
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed hump is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed hump
deflects both the wheels and frame of a passing vehicle. A speed hump crosses the width of
the street and all traffic experiences a deflection, not only those with narrower axles. The
purpose of a speed hump is to reduce vehicle speeds. The verticle deflection caused by the
speed hump is designed to produce an uncomfortable sensation for vehicle occupants
travelling at speeds in excess of the design speed. As a level 2 traffic calming measure, a
speed hump would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made from rubber or
a similar composite material.
Advantages:
A reduction in vehicle speeds in relation to cushion
spacing:
50 km/h with 125 metre cushion spacing;
40 km/h with 80 metre cushion spacing;
30 km/h with 60 metre cushion spacing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Fire vehicles experience an 8 to 15 seconds
delay per speed cushion.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Table
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed table is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed table
spans the width of the street. They have a flat section in the middle, ramps on each end
and are wider than speed humps. Speed tables can also be used as raised crosswalks.
Speed tables are generally used at intersections, but may be used at mid-block pedestrian
crossing areas. The purpose of the speed table is to help enforce the speed limit rather than
significantly reduce the speed of vehicles. As a level 2 traffic calming measure, a speed
table would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made from rubber or a
similar composite material.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds;
May reduce traffic volumes;
Less impact than speed humps on long
vehicles;
Easier for bicyclists and pedestrians to
cross.
Disadvantages:
May increase noise (braking and
acceleration);
May impact drainage;
May increase speeds between tables;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Appendix C
Traffic Calming Measures Available for Consideration
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Neighbourhood Meeting
Level: 1
Description: A neighbourhood meeting can be held at a time and location that is convenient for all
residents to attend and to express their concerns. The meeting is to be used to clearly
identify the issues of concern for their neighbourhood.
Advantages:
Clearly identifies issues of concern;
Allows all residents to air their views;
Establishes clear lines of communication
between town staff and residents.
Disadvantages:
The meetings must be focused on specific
topics and cannot be allowed to become a
forum to address all of the town's problems;
Are potentially time consuming if the
meetings are repetitious.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Neighbourhood Pace Car Program
Level: 1
Description: The Neighbourhood Pace Car Program is aimed at all drivers in the town. The driver of a
vehicle would sign a pledge stating they will obey all speed limits, traffic signs and lights.
The drivers would also stop at all pedestrian crosses, be courteous to bicyclists and other
motorists, and reduce the usage of their vehicle by exploring alternative methods of
transportation. The vehicle of the pledged driver would display a sticker or magnet that
indicates their involvement in the Pace Car Program. The purpose of the Pace Car
Program is to calm drivers, not to calm streets by setting an example for others to follow.
Advantages:
May slow speeds of vehicles by setting an
example for other to follow;
A hands on approach for citizens to "do
their part".
Disadvantages:
The Pace Car Program can not be enforced;
Integrity of the program relies on the drivers.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Limit Signs and Pavement Messages
Level: 1
Description: Speed limit signs and pavement messages can be used to help remind motorists of the
established speed limit for that street. In areas of changing speed limits these methods can
be used to guide drivers in adjusting their speeds accordingly.
Advantages:
Relatively inexpensive to install in areas of
need;
Can be effective in reducing speeds of
vehicles when paired with regular periods
of enforcement.
Disadvantages:
The effectiveness of speed limit signs and
pavement messages is entirely dependent on
the motorist's acceptance of the limit and the
amount of enforcement.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Special Neighbourhood Signs
Level: 1
Description: Special neighbourhood signs will alert drivers to the fact that they are entering a traffic
calming area.
Advantages:
Alert drivers that they are entering a
traffic calming area.
Disadvantages:
Too many signs may have a negative
aesthetic impact in the neighbourhood.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Higher Visibility Crosswalks
Level: 1
Description: Higher visibility crosswalks incorporate striped patterns into the walkway. The purpose of
these crosswalks is to better define the crossing location for pedestrians and to reduce the
number of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts.
Advantages:
A more visible crossing area emphasizes
the crosswalk area and the pedestrian's
priority.
Disadvantages:
May create a false sense of pedestrian
security;
Requires more maintenance than traditional
crosswalks.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Wagon
Level: 1
Description: A speed wagon is a mobile, speed-monitoring display device that informs passing drivers of
their present speed, in a large, visible manner. The speed limit of the particular street is
posted on the speed wagon for motorists to see. The wagon is placed in an area of concern
and used as an information service to make drivers aware of their speed.
Advantages:
Education tool;
Useful in school zones and recreation areas
where speed reduction is important;
Low cost;
Easily moved to locations of concern.
Disadvantages:
Requires periodic enforcement;
Effective for a limited duration;
Requires personnel for the relocation of the
wagon.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Cushion
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed cushion is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed
cushion deflects the wheels and frame of a passing vehicle. The design of speed cushions
forces vehicles to slow down as they ride, with one or both sides of the car on the cushions.
The design allows for wider axle vehicles, such as fire engines, ambulances, and school
buses, to pass over the cushion without any wheel deflection. The purpose of a speed
cushion is to selectively reduce the speed of passenger vehicles. The verticle deflection
caused by the speed cushion is designed to produce an uncomfortable sensation for vehicle
occupants travelling at speeds in excess of the design speed. As a level 2 traffic calming
measure, a speed cushion would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made
from rubber or a similar composite material.
Advantages:
A reduction in vehicle speeds in relation to
cushion spacing:
50 km/h with 125 metre cushion spacing;
40 km/h with 80 metre cushion spacing;
30 km/h with 60 metre cushion spacing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Fire vehicles experience an 8 to 15 seconds
delay per speed cushion.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Hump
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed hump is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed hump
deflects both the wheels and frame of a passing vehicle. A speed hump crosses the width of
the street and all traffic experiences a deflection, not only those with narrower axles. The
purpose of a speed hump is to reduce vehicle speeds. The verticle deflection caused by the
speed hump is designed to produce an uncomfortable sensation for vehicle occupants
travelling at speeds in excess of the design speed. As a level 2 traffic calming measure, a
speed hump would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made from rubber or
a similar composite material.
Advantages:
A reduction in vehicle speeds in relation to cushion
spacing:
50 km/h with 125 metre cushion spacing;
40 km/h with 80 metre cushion spacing;
30 km/h with 60 metre cushion spacing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Fire vehicles experience an 8 to 15 seconds
delay per speed cushion.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Table
Level: 2
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed table is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed table
spans the width of the street. They have a flat section in the middle, ramps on each end
and are wider than speed humps. Speed tables can also be used as raised crosswalks.
Speed tables are generally used at intersections, but may be used at mid-block pedestrian
crossing areas. The purpose of the speed table is to help enforce the speed limit rather than
significantly reduce the speed of vehicles. As a level 2 traffic calming measure, a speed
table would be temporarily placed in its position and would be made from rubber or a
similar composite material.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds;
May reduce traffic volumes;
Less impact than speed humps on long
vehicles;
Easier for bicyclists and pedestrians to
cross.
Disadvantages:
May increase noise (braking and
acceleration);
May impact drainage;
May increase speeds between tables;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Traffic Circle
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A traffic circle is a circular, raised island, which is placed in the middle of intersections.
Traffic circles require vehicles to travel through the intersection in a counter-clockwise
direction around the island. Traffic circles differ from roundabouts; the latter are larger,
have raised median islands on all approaches. The purpose of a traffic circle is to reduce
vehicle speeds and reduce vehicle-vehicle conflicts at intersections.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds:
A decrease in 85th percentile speeds from
59 km/h to 52 km/h (Richmond Hill, Ont.);
May reduce traffic volume:
A reduction in traffic volume from 3900
veh/day to 3100 (Richmond Hill, Ont);
May reduce number of collisions:
A reduction of 7.6 collisions/year at six
intersections before traffic circles to 1.5
collisions/year after (North York, Ont).
Disadvantages:
Left turns may be confusing;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
May direct traffic into unmarked crosswalk
areas, increasing the potential for pedestrian-
vehicle incidents;
Can restrict access to longer buses and
trucks;
Can cause a delay of 1.3-10.7 seconds per
traffic circle for fire vehicles (Portland, OR).
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Gateway
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A gateway is a special entrance that will reduce the width of the street lane. Islands are
often used to achieve the gateway for street entrances. Gateways are not to be confused for
gates. The physical design of the gateway will depend on the existing conditions of the
street. The purpose of the gateway is to reduce the speed of vehicles in the immediate area
and the amount of potential cut-through traffic on the street.
Advantages:
Reduces pedestrian crossing distance;
Reduces speeds in the immediate area;
May eliminate cut-through traffic;
Allows signs to be placed in favourable
sight lines for motorists;
May create landscaping space.
Disadvantages:
Can impede access for emergency and service
vehicles;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Low speed of turning vehicles may impede
traffic flow on arterial roadways;
High installation cost;
Increased maintenance.
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Choker
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A choker is a physical narrowing of the driving lanes in the mid-block area. The widening
of boulevards or sidewalks can form a choker. On-street parking can create the same effect
as a choker. Chokers are normally used on local streets and are not used in areas of
extensive parking. Chokers differ from "bulb-outs" because they are not placed at
intersections but at mid-block areas. The purpose of a choker is to reduce the speed of
passing vehicles.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds due to narrowing of
lane;
May reduce traffic volumes;
Chokers are self-enforcing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
May impact drainage;
Should not be placed on the crest of a hill;
May reduce available curbside parking.
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Bulb-Out
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A bulb-out is a realigned curb that reduces the street width at an intersection. The result
of a bulb-out is a widening of the street corners. This helps improve pedestrian access and
also helps define neighbourhood entrances. If the bulb-outs are placed in a series, they can
create a parking bay. The purpose of a bulb-out is to create a safer pedestrian crossing area
by decreasing the crossing distance, improving pedestrian visibility and to reduce vehicle
speeds.
Advantages:
Can reduce pedestrian crossing distance;
May reduce vehicle speeds;
May reduce traffic volumes;
Bulb-outs are self-enforcing;
May improve site lines and visibility for
pedestrians.
Disadvantages:
May impact drainage;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
May impact bicycle accommodations;
May impact parking;
Increased plow damage to grass, trees and
curb extensions.
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Chicane
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A chicane is a series of curb extensions on alternating sides of the roadway. Chicanes
narrow the roadway and require drivers to steer from one side of the road to the other and
can be used for one and two lane applications. At least three curb extensions are used to
form chicane. The purpose of a chicane is to discourage cut-through traffic and to reduce
the speed of vehicles on the roadway.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds:
One-lane chicane - a speed reduction to
25 km/h (Seattle, WA);
Two-lane chicane - a speed reduction to
47 km/h (Seattle, WA);
May reduce volume:
One-lane chicane - a reduction from 1900
veh/day to 1000 veh/day (Seattle, WA);
Two-lane chicane - a reduction from
1150 veh/day to 900 veh/day (Nepean,
Ont.);
May reduce traffic noise due to
decreased speed;
Landscaping of chicane can improve
appearance of the street.
Disadvantages:
Likely to impact drainage;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Not appropriate for high volume streets;
Not appropriate for intersections;
Cannot sustain on street parking;
May cause problems during winter.
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Central Island
Level: 3
Horizontal Deflection
Description: A central island is a raised median that is constructed on the centreline of a two-way road.
A central island reduces a section of the street to a narrower lane. The purpose of a central
island is to reduce the speed of vehicles and to reduce the number of pedestrian-vehicle
conflicts. The effectiveness of a central island can be increased when a combination of the
median and curb extensions are used before and after the median islands.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds:
A 3km/h reduction in vehicle speeds
due to island (Anne Arundel County,
MD);
An 8 km/h reduction in vehicle speeds
when combined with curb extensions
(Anne Arundel County, MD);
Central Islands are self-enforcing;
Allow pedestrians to cross half of the street at
a time.
May prevent vehicles from performing U-
Turns;
Disadvantages:
May restrict access to driveways from one
lane;
May increase snow removal costs (Edmonton,
AB);
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
May increase speeds if mid-block left-turn
movements are not possible.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Hump
Level: 3
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed hump is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed hump
deflects both the wheels and frame of a passing vehicle. A speed hump crosses the width of
the street and all traffic experiences a deflection, not only those with narrower axles. The
purpose of a speed hump is to reduce vehicle speeds. The verticle deflection caused by the
speed hump is designed to produce an uncomfortable sensation for vehicle occupants
travelling at speeds in excess of the design speed. As a level 3 traffic calming measure, a
speed hump would be permanently placed in its position using asphalt.
Advantages:
A reduction in vehicle speeds in relation to cushion
spacing:
50 km/h with 125 metre cushion spacing;
40 km/h with 80 metre cushion spacing;
30 km/h with 60 metre cushion spacing.
Disadvantages:
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures;
Fire vehicles experience an 8 to 15 seconds
delay per speed cushion.
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QuispamsisTrafficCalmingPolicy
Speed Table
Level: 3
Vertical Deflection
Description: A speed table is an area of the roadway that is raised above the surface. A speed table
spans the width of the street. They have a flat section in the middle, ramps on each end
and are wider than speed humps. Speed tables can also be used as raised crosswalks.
Speed tables are generally used at intersections, but may be used at mid-block pedestrian
crossing areas. The purpose of the speed table is to help enforce the speed limit rather than
significantly reduce the speed of vehicles. As a level 3 traffic calming measure, a speed
table would be permanently placed in its position using asphalt.
Advantages:
May reduce speeds;
May reduce traffic volumes;
Less impact than speed humps on long
vehicles;
Easier for bicyclists and pedestrians to
cross.
Disadvantages:
May increase noise (braking and
acceleration);
May impact drainage;
May increase speeds between tables;
May cause an inadvertent diversion and
increase of traffic to surrounding streets
lacking traffic calming measures.
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