Speed Management
Recommendation: On major streets, where conditions vary widely, cities can conduct a Safe Speed Study to determine the safest maximum speed limit (see page 43 of the NACTO City Limits guide). In urban areas, a Safe Speed Study will most often result in a recommended maximum speed limit of 20 or 25 mph for major streets. For streets that have well-protected places for people to walk and bike, and that are in low density areas with primarily manufacturing and residential uses, cities may find that a 30 or even 35 mph speed limit is appropriate. However, these higher speed limits should be used sparingly and only in cases where safe conditions can be met.
NACTO GUIDANCE FOR SPEED MANAGEMENT The National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) created a guide on speed limits. The document succinctly outlines why communities may want to revisit their speed limits, how to go about making changes, and what is recommended based on context and goals.
TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES There are three general types of speed reduction measures: • Physical measures such as vertical deflections, horizontal shifts, and roadway narrowing intended to reduce speed and enhance the street environment for non-motorists. • Nonphysical measures using signs and markings are intended to raise awareness and reduce speed through visual indications. • Diversion treatments reduce cut- through traffic by obstructing or otherwise preventing traffic movements in one or more directions. Speed management can also enhance pedestrian safety in Fuquay-Varina’s downtown cores. Refer to the Transitions to Main Streets section in FHWA Achieving Multimodal Networks 2016 for more information on applying traffic calming in advance of built-up areas.
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More on these tactics can be found in the NACTO City Limits guide pictured below.
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CHAPTER 4: PROGRAM & POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
FUQUAY-VARINA PEDESTRIAN PLAN
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