Laserfiche WebLink
City of Des Plaines <br />Neighborhood Traffic Management Policy <br />INTRODUC_TION <br />There is increasing interest across the country in developing new strategies to reduce the speed <br />and amount of traffic in residential neighborhoods. Measurement of speeds, traffic volumes, and <br />crash rates are essential in helping determine which strategies work and can be applied at similar <br />locations. <br />The purpose of this document is to describe a process that will: <br />1. Determine the extent of existing traffic problems in a neighborhood. <br />2. Describe the range of alternatives available to reduce those problems. <br />3. Utilize local input in assessing the determination of traffic calming alternatives. <br />4. Determine if the traffic calming measure is appropriate based on sound engineering <br />criteria. <br />5. Develop a priority ranking system for the City Council to use when the estimated cost of <br />projects exceeds the approved funding level. <br />GUIDING PRINCIPLES <br />The following basic principles are to be used as a foundation as we work through the process of <br />managing traffic in neighborhoods. <br />A. Traffic operations and safety are important and should be addressed in order to enhance the <br />quality of our neighborhoods. Both the perception of and the measurable characteristics of <br />traffic problems should be considered. <br />B. Adequate emergency and public service access is essential and must be maintained. Therefore, <br />traffic calming measures may be limited to certain streets. <br />C. Local residents, businesses, schools and park users should have input into how the street <br />operates, although the final decision is made through the use of sound engineering judgment. <br />D. Prioritization will be established when projects compete for limited funding and staff <br />resources. <br />E. The traffic control measure. (s) selected should not move traffic to adversely affect other <br />streets. <br />F. Proposed changes must be fair and consistent throughout the City. <br />G. Based on engineering criteria set forth in this document, the City will make the final <br />determination of the location and type of traffic calming device to be installed. <br />H:lEngineeringlTraffic and TransportationlTraffic Calming\Neighborhood Traffic Management Policy\ Individual <br />files\Original Word -Excel files13 Draft Des Plaines Traffic Mgmt Policy rev09 -4.doc <br />