Traffic calming is a
variety of techniques and strategies designed to
reallocate trips, either by mode or route, or to
control motor vehicle speeds. "Traffic calming is the combination of mainly
physical measures that reduce the negative effects
of motor vehicle use, alter driver behavior and
improve conditions for non-motorized street users."
- ITE Definition
Several measures for reducing traffic volumes
(cut-through traffic) and/or the speed of motorists
are stricter police enforcement, left turn
restrictions, speed humps, speed tables, street
narrowing, and as a last resort street closures may
be required. However, an overall strategy must be
developed to avoid merely shifting traffic and
causing similar problems on other streets. CBB
recommends that a stepwise approach be employed
until the problem is solved. It is essential to
remember that a major part of reducing traffic
volumes on many of the local roadways is directly
related to continuing improvements on the adjacent
arterial roads including improved traffic signal
systems and timings.
