HomeMy WebLinkAbout5. NTCP - Draft 06/13/11Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
DRAFT — 06.13. 11
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Village of Mount Prospect
Engineering Division
Approved by Village Board of Trustees:
Last Updated:
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction.................................................................. ............................... 1
Goals.......................................................................... ............................... 2
Policy Statements
ResidentialFocus .................................................. ............................... 3
Education and Enforcement ...................................... ............................... 3
MinimumCriteria ................................................. ............................... 4
ProjectAreas ....................................................... ............................... 4
Resident and Village Initiated Processes ....................... ............................... 5
Project Prioritization .............................................. ............................... 5
Traffic Calming Measures ....................................... ............................... 6
EmergencyResponse ............................................. ............................... 7
Maintenance........................................................ ............................... 8
Funding............................................................. ............................... 8
Removal............................................................ ............................... 8
Traffic Calming Process .................................................... ............................... 10
Resources..................................................................... ............................... 14
Appendix A — Process Flowchart
Appendix B — Minimum Criteria
Appendix C — Petition Form
Appendix D — Project Prioritization Worksheet
Appendix E — Traffic Calming Toolbox
Appendix F — Primary Emergency Vehicle Response Route Map
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
1
INTRODUCTION
Traffic conditions on residential streets can greatly affect neighborhood livability. Residents have an
expectation that their streets will be safe and pleasant. When they perceive this to be the case, the quality
of life is enhanced. However, when the negative issues that can be associated with traffic intrude into
their neighborhoods, residents' sense of community and personal well -being are diminished.
Concerns of excessive speeding, cut - through traffic and pedestrian safety in neighborhoods are often
expressed by residents to the Village. A belief in a diminished quality of life and feeling of safety by
residents as a result of the unwelcome traffic press the Village to provide solutions. The Village of
Mount Prospect's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program incorporates education, enforcement and
engineering solutions to the traffic issues that exist within our neighborhoods. It builds upon the recently
completed Neighborhood Traffic Study that has resulted in a consistent pattern of intersection traffic
control and speed limits to enhance driver expectation and safety.
The Institute of Transportation Engineers defines traffic calming as "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." Using this definition as a framework, the program will
provide a process to develop appropriate solutions and will include the cooperative efforts of Village
Staff, elected officials, residents, business owners and road users to achieve our desired goals.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
V A/ 2
GOALS
The goals of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program are:
• Enhance neighborhood safety and livability by reducing excessive speeding and traffic volumes on
residential streets.
• Encourage reasonable and responsible driver behavior through education and enforcement.
• Leverage the data collected from the Neighborhood Traffic Study so that traffic calming projects can
be pursued via either a resident - driven or Village- initiated process.
• Promote and enhance safety for bicycle and pedestrian travel.
• Foster a collaborative working relationship between Village Staff, elected officials, residents,
business owners and road users in the development of traffic calming projects.
• Make efficient use of Village resources including personnel and funding by following the established
process of evaluating and prioritizing traffic calming requests.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
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POLICY STATEMENTS
Residential Focus
The Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program is focused on residential areas since a goal is to enhance
neighborhood safety and livability. Only local residential and collector streets will be considered in this
program. Arterial streets are specifically excluded from this program because the nature of arterial streets
is to move large numbers of vehicles in a relatively free - flowing manner. Non - neighborhood traffic is
encouraged to use arterial streets in order to reduce cut - through traffic in the neighborhoods. It is
recognized, however, that vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian issues exist on arterial streets. Other means
and resources outside the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program will be explored to address these
issues.
Neighborhood participation is important in order to develop a consensus of the issues that adversely affect
the neighborhood, evaluate the pros and cons of the various traffic calming measures, and ensure that the
issues are adequately addressed. It is essential to consider a wide range of perspectives and observations
in addition to engineering data. The program is designed so that residents can become actively involved
in defining the problem(s) and in the decision - making process in order to have a sense of ownership in the
outcome.
In addition to neighborhood participation, it is important that the process reflects the opinions of a
majority of the residents and not just a few vocal residents. This is implemented through the use of a
petition that must be signed by at least 51% of the properties along the qualifying street to initiate the
traffic calming process. The limits of the petition area will be determined by the Engineering Division.
Within the established Project Area, at the end of the process, a final vote requiring a favorable response
of a least 66% of the properties on a street is required to implement traffic calming measures on that
particular street. This is further explained in the Traffic Calming Process section as well as the flowchart
located in Appendix A.
• Traffic calming measures will only be considered on local residential and collector streets.
• Residents and business owners will be encouraged to participate in the identification of the traffic
issues as well as development of the solution.
• Traffic calming projects will require a positive response from at least 51% of the properties along the
qualifying street to initiate the process and 66% of the properties along a street within the Project
Area to support installation of traffic calming measures.
Education and Enforcement
Traffic calming measures physically alter the roadway and are considered permanent changes that will
impact the behavior of motorists. These dramatic changes should only be considered after consideration
of less costly options.
Education provides the opportunity for the Engineering Division and Police Department to communicate
their perspective to residents. The advantages and disadvantages of traffic calming measures, the purpose
of traffic control devices (stop and yield signs), and the true extent of a problem based on collected data
can be shared with residents to make them better informed. This can be accomplished through telephone
conversations, neighborhood meetings, open houses, brochures, the Village web site and newspaper
media. In addition, employing education tools will allow residents to get involved in easing traffic
concerns. One example is the placement of yard signs (Keep Kids Alive — Drive 25 campaign) in
neighborhoods by residents in collaboration with the Police Department.
Enforcement relies on the Police Department to be a presence in neighborhoods and enforce existing
speed limit and traffic control ordinances. In addition to selective enforcement, the Police Department
also will utilize the speed display trailer and drone vehicles to ease traffic concerns.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
Inexpensive engineering measures such as additional signage, striping and pavement markings will also
be considered before approving traffic calming measures.
Education, enforcement and inexpensive engineering solutions are to be considered prior to approval
of any traffic calming measures.
Minimum Criteria
The Village receives requests on a regular basis for traffic calming measures. The primary complaints
involve speeding vehicles or a high volume of vehicles relative to the street type. The extent of a problem
on one street will be different than another street. Therefore, it is important to develop thresholds for
streets to qualify for traffic calming measures. Otherwise, traffic calming measures could be installed on
streets where there would be minimal effect on traffic speed and volume. Not only would this set a
precedent to permit traffic calming measures on every neighborhood street, it would have a negative
impact on efficiently using Staff resources and Village expenditures. Since traffic calming measures
directly impact vehicular speed and volume, minimum speed or volume criteria will need to be met in
order for a Project Area to qualify for traffic calming measures and begin the petition process. The only
exception will be if the street has a recent history of crashes atypical for a neighborhood street and traffic
calming measures would be the appropriate solution. The specifics of the minimum criteria are explained
in Appendix B.
In order for a street to qualify for traffic calming measures and begin the petition process, minimum
traffic volume or speed criteria are to be met.
Project Areas
The Village was segmented into eighteen (18) neighborhood zones as part of the Neighborhood Traffic
Study, a program that reviewed the traffic control at all neighborhood intersections and speed limits on all
neighborhood streets. Each neighborhood was reviewed as a whole rather than analyzing each
intersection or street independently. By having a big picture focus, the Village was able to consider the
potential impact throughout the neighborhood. And a product of the study was the collection of extensive
vehicular volume and speed, pedestrian and intersection data.
Both the traffic data collected from and approach to the Neighborhood Traffic Study are key aspects of
the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. The traffic data collected from the Neighborhood Traffic
Study will serve as the primary source to be able to identify streets with traffic conditions above the norm
and that qualify for traffic calming measures. This will allow the Engineering Division to streamline the
process by not having to always perform an initial traffic study. The type and level of the issue(s) can be
assessed and a Project Area more quickly created. Further, potential traffic calming measures can begin
to be discussed based on the traffic data and street characteristics.
It will also be important to keep in mind that traffic calming measures on one street can have an impact on
surrounding streets. A noticeable increase in vehicular volume or speed on an adjacent street may arise
when the street in question is the sole focus of a project. In developing a solution for one traffic problem,
it is important not to shift the problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood. Neighborhood street
classifications and their respective functions are to be maintained.
In an effort to address this concern, the Engineering Division will create a Project Area after a petition is
received for traffic calming measures on a particular street. The boundaries of the Project Area will be
the limits of potential significant impact should construction of traffic calming measures take place on the
qualifying street. In some cases the Project Area will be limited to the qualifying street in question
whereas in other cases it will include adjacent streets. Adjacent streets within the Project Area may or
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
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may not meet the criteria for traffic calming measures when evaluated independently, and may or may not
receive approval for traffic calming measures, but may be considered in the development of a project
should the Engineering Division believe traffic calming measures on the qualifying street in question will
significantly impact traffic conditions on other streets in the neighborhood. A Project Area, therefore,
does not necessarily include the entire neighborhood allowing for the possibility of multiple Project Areas
within a neighborhood.
• The traffic data collected from the Neighborhood Traffic Study will serve as the primary source to
identify streets that qualify for traffic calming measures.
• The type and level of the traffic issue(s) along with the street characteristics will help determine the
appropriate traffic calming measures.
• Traffic calming projects are intended to minimize diverted traffic to other local residential or
collector streets.
• A Project Area, the limits of potential significant impact should construction of traffic calming
measures take place on the qualifying street, will be created for each potential traffic calming project.
Resident and Village Initiated Processes
Residential streets with traffic conditions above the norm are not necessarily considered hazardous where
traffic calming measures are required. In many cases, residents may consider traffic calming measures
too intrusive and would prefer impermanent solutions such as enforcement and education. There is not
always the need to aggressively respond to traffic data when to residents the current conditions do not
significantly affect their livability. Two processes, therefore, have been developed for the Neighborhood
Traffic Calming Program.
The resident - initiated process allows the neighborhood to reach out to the Village when it believes
conditions have reached a level for pursuing traffic calming measures. This process provides a sense of
ownership to improve the livability in the neighborhood. Once this process is initiated, the Village will
partner with residents to develop a traffic calming project. The petition form to initiate the process is
located in Appendix C.
The Village- initiated process allows the Engineering Division to pursue traffic calming measures when a
hazardous condition is clearly evident. A high crash rate, recorded speeds well above a typical residential
street, and recorded volumes excessive for the street classification are examples. The process will permit
the Engineering Division to bypass the petition process but still allows for resident involvement in the
plan development phase.
+ Resident- initiated and Village- initiated processes have been developed to pursue traffic calming
projects.
Project Prioritization
The need to prioritize projects arises when the demand for traffic calming measures exceeds Village
resources. This includes Village Staff time to work on a project as well as construction funding. A
common approach to efficiently utilize Village resources is to prioritize projects so that neighborhoods
with the greater problems are addressed first. Since most neighborhood traffic problems involve speeding
vehicles or a high volume of vehicles relative to the street type, these are the first factors taken into
consideration. Another factor that will be considered in defining the extent of the problem is the recent
crash history along the street. In addition, the amount of pedestrian activity within the neighborhood will
be taken into account. Neighborhoods that have a higher number of pedestrian generators such as parks
and schools will be impacted greater than those neighborhoods without pedestrian generators. Due to the
high concentration of school -aged pedestrians and localized traffic congestion associated with elementary,
middle and high schools, these pedestrian generators are weighted double that of other non - school
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Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
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pedestrian generators. And a final factor to be considered is the presence (or lack) of sidewalk. In
neighborhoods without sidewalk, pedestrians are in greater conflict with vehicles than in neighborhoods
with sidewalk.
Should the Village receive multiple requests for traffic calming projects, the Engineering Division will
prioritize them utilizing the Project Prioritization Worksheet located in Appendix D. The one street
within the Project Area that receives the most points will represent the Project Area during the
prioritization review.
Traffic calming studies will be prioritized based on the extent of the problem.
Traffic Calming Measures
There are a few basic categories of traffic calming measures. Each one can have a different effect on
motorists as well as bicyclists and pedestrians. It is, therefore, important to understand how each traffic
calming measure functions and the primary traffic issue each that one is intended to address. The library
or "toolbox" of traffic calming measures will provide the Engineering Division with a number of
alternatives when developing a project. The identified traffic issue(s), collected traffic data, street
classification, street geometries, adjacent land use and cost are some of the factors that will be considered
to determine the appropriate traffic calming measure(s) for each project. Brief descriptions of the
different types of traffic calming measures are provided here. The toolbox is located in Appendix E and
provides detailed descriptions of each of the traffic calming measures.
Horizontal deflection measures include traffic circles and chicanes. Constriction measures include choke
points and midblock medians. These measures slow traffic by physically forcing motorists to maneuver
around the measures. The use of landscaping within these devices not only enhance the aesthetics of the
streetscape but also can break up the motorist's line of sight thereby reducing the comfortable speed of
travel. When used in conjunction with one another, these measures are effective for a longer stretch of
roadway rather than just in the immediate vicinity of the measure. These measures also tend to have
relatively lower impacts on emergency vehicles. However, use of these measures usually requires
prohibition of on- street parking adjacent to the measure.
Horizontal deflection measures and constriction measures such as traffic circles, chicanes, choke
points and midblock medians are acceptable traffic calming measures.
Vertical deflection measures include speed humps, speed tables and raised crosswalks. These measures
slow traffic by physically forcing motorists to maneuver over the measures. They are typically 14 to 22
feet long and 3 to 4 inches high. In order to be effective for a long stretch of roadway, they must be
installed every 250 -400 feet. Otherwise, many motorists will speed between measures in order to "make
up for lost time ". Speed humps can also have a negative impact on emergency vehicle response time as
well as maintenance activities such as snow plowing and street sweeping. Their use can also redistribute
traffic in a neighborhood as motorists may choose alternate routes to avoid them. For these reasons,
vertical deflection measures are to be limited in their application. Their use is to address defined speeding
problems and should only be considered when other traffic calming measures may not provide effective
results. Primary emergency vehicle response routes and collector streets are not eligible for vertical
deflection measures. This is because it is not only imperative that emergency vehicles not be hindered
while responding to an emergency but just as important that the outcome not result in a significant
redistribution of traffic within a neighborhood. To this end, adjacent streets may be included in a Project
Area should vertical deflection measures be considered for a local street. Traffic calming measures may
or may not be installed on adjacent streets but it is important to consider their potential impact during the
process.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
Vertical deflection measures such as speed humps, speed tables and raised crosswalks are acceptable
traffic calming measures in limited applications.
Pedestrian safety measures include curb extensions and pedestrian refuges. These measures are usually
installed near high pedestrian areas such as schools and parks. The primary purpose of these measures is
to make it safer for pedestrians to cross the street. Curb extensions narrow the street at a key crossing
point minimizing the distance and time a pedestrian is in the street. Pedestrian refuges provide a place of
safety for pedestrians along the center of the street allowing them to cross one direction at a time. A
secondary benefit of these measures is that they can slow traffic as vehicles pass the measure.
Pedestrian safety measures such as curb extensions and pedestrian refuges are acceptable traffic
calming measures.
Volume reducing measures include diverters, intersection median barriers, street closures and turn
restrictions. These measures alter the existing transportation circulation system. As a result, these
measures can have impacts that would need to be evaluated in greater scope than just along one particular
street. While they can be a viable solution to a street problem, it is important not to shift the problem to
an adjacent street or neighborhood.
Volume reducing measures such as diverters, intersection median barriers, street closures and turn
restrictions are acceptable traffic calming measures if it can be verified through quantitative analysis
that a substantial amount of cut through traffic is evident. However, they should be evaluated as part
of an area -wide study if their use is to be considered.
Stop signs are not traffic calming measures. Residents, however, often request stop signs in an effort to
calm traffic. Although residents believe that stop signs will reduce vehicular speeds, traffic studies have
shown there is little difference with vehicular speeds at the midblock whether there is or is not a stop sign
at the adjacent intersection. In some cases, vehicular speeds after the vehicle has passed through the stop
controlled intersection have shown to be higher than without a stop sign as motorists try to "make up for
lost time" after the stop sign.
Inappropriate use of stop signs can also create significant negative impact to emergency vehicles.
Emergency vehicles are required to verify that a stop controlled intersection is clear of vehicles prior to
entering. Many times this means that the emergency vehicle must nearly come to a stop.
Stop signs are traffic control devices that should be used when appropriate to assign right -of -way to
conflicting traffic movements, not to calm traffic. Stop signs should be installed only at locations where
conditions meet criteria established in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Unwarranted
stop signs can have a high violation rate, create disrespect at other stop controlled intersections and create
a false sense of security for other road users and pedestrians.
* Unwarranted stop signs are not to be used as part of the program.
Emergency Response
A critical concern about the use of traffic calming measures is the delay they may create for fire engines,
ambulances and law enforcement vehicles. It is important to be aware of the trade -offs when making
decisions about the use of traffic calming devices. The more aggressive measures for slowing traffic will
slow emergency response as well.
Recognizing the importance of emergency response time, all traffic calming measures will be designed to
minimize the impact on emergency vehicles. Since many collector streets are considered primary
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
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emergency vehicle response routes, particular attention must be paid to the types of measures used on
collector streets. Measures that considerably interfere with emergency vehicle operations on collector
streets or other primary emergency vehicle response routes will not be allowed. A map identifying the
Village's primary emergency vehicle response routes is located in Appendix F.
• Traffic calming measures shall be designed to minimize the impact on emergency vehicle response
times.
• Traffic calming measures shall be limited on primary emergency vehicle response routes.
• The Fire Department and Police Department shall be involved in the process and be given the
opportunity to provide input prior to approval of any traffic calming measures.
Maintenance
Many traffic calming measures alter the geometry of the roadway. Poorly designed measures could
interfere with maintenance activities such as street sweeping, leaf pick -up and snow plowing. This could
have a negative effect on the appearance of the neighborhood and the residents' quality of life.
• Traffic calming measures shall be designed to minimize the impact on maintenance activities such as
street sweeping, leaf pick -up and snow plowing.
• The Public Works Department shall be involved in the process and be given the opportunity to
provide input prior to approval of any traffic calming measures.
Funding
The Village's Traffic Improvement Account will be the primary source to fund traffic calming projects.
Grant resources such as Safe Route to Schools and the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program will
also be explored to offset Village costs. All costs associated with traffic calming projects will be paid for
by the Village. Residents and businesses will not be required to directly share in the costs. Such funding
is subject to availability.
Administration costs including Village Staff time to collect and analyze data, prioritize requests, conduct
neighborhood meetings, develop engineering drawings detailing the traffic calming measures, and
perform any post- studies after construction will be covered under the normal operating budget and will
not be the responsibility of residents or businesses to fund. If a project goes to construction, the Village
will cover the costs of the bidding process, construction inspection and project management. All
construction costs will also be paid for by the Village.
Maintenance of the traffic calming measures will be necessary on a regular basis after construction. The
Village will be responsible for maintenance such as replacing damaged signs, refreshing striping and
pavement markings, pavement repair and landscaping. Maintenance of the traffic calming measures will
be done at no direct cost to residents or businesses.
Residents and business owners within a Project Area will not be required to directly fund any portion
of a traffic calming project or future maintenance of such measures. All costs will be paid for by the
Village.
Removal
Although there are many policies and steps incorporated in the program to avoid the scenario whereby a
neighborhood requests to have traffic calming measures removed, it is acknowledged that this may occur.
In order for consideration to remove traffic calming measures from an individual street or entire Project ■
Area that were installed via the resident - initiated process, a petition must be submitted to the Village. If
the request is for an individual street that did not originally qualify for traffic calming measures when
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
9
evaluated independently, the petition must be signed by at least 66% of the properties along the street in
question. If the request is for an individual street that did originally qualify for traffic calming measures
or is for an entire Project Area, the petition must be signed by at least 66% of the properties within the
Project Area. A petition cannot be submitted for at least one year after installation of traffic calming
measures in order to avoid a premature reaction to their effectiveness.
Should the Village receive a petition, a neighborhood meeting will be held to discuss the issues and
impacts of removal of the traffic calming measures. As part of the discussion, residents and businesses ■
will be presented the latest traffic data to understand the effectiveness of the existing traffic calming
measures. They will also be informed that any costs associated with removing the traffic calming
measures will be paid for by the Village. The Village will then send a ballot to the affected properties
within the Project Area detailing the removal request. If the request is for an individual street that did not
originally qualify for traffic calming measures, ballots will only be sent to the properties along the street
in question. If the request is for an individual street that did originally qualify for traffic calming
measures or is for an entire Project Area, ballots will be sent to all properties within the Project Area. A
deadline for return will be shown on the ballot. In order to proceed with removal of the traffic calming
measures, a positive response from at least 66% of the properties involved must be received by the
deadline. No response or a late response will be counted as opposition to the removal. Should there be
sufficient support to remove the traffic calming measures, the Village Board of Trustees will be advised ■
and requested to make a final decision based on a simple majority vote. Removal of the traffic calming
measures will not take place unless the Village Board of Trustees approves the removal and until funds
are allocated by the Village.
Similar to the petition process, single family properties and single use properties such as schools, parks,
churches, commercial businesses, etc. will count equally as a single vote. Each unit within small scale
multi - family properties without a management company such as condominium complexes will also have ■
a single vote. The same will be for small scale commercial properties. For large scale multi- family
residential properties such as apartment complexes or large scale multi -unit commercial properties, the
management company will decide and be allotted votes equaling the number of buildings on the property.
For such large scale properties without a management company, each unit will be counted that proportion
of the number of buildings divided by the number of total units on the property.
For traffic calming measures installed via the Village- initiated process, only the Village can initiate the
process for removal. Typically, the Village will initiate the removal process should the street be altered,
adjacent land use change, or other situations arise where it is determined the traffic calming measures are ■
no longer effective or necessary. A traffic study must support the recommendation to remove such traffic
calming measures. After a neighborhood meeting, a survey will be sent to the Project Area soliciting
feedback. Resident comments will be forwarded to the Village Board of Trustees and taken into account
before they make a final decision based on a simple majority vote.
• Traffic calming measures shall remain in -place for a minimum of one year before being considered
for removal.
• Removal of a traffic calming measure installed via the resident - initiated process shall require a
positive response from at least 66% of the affected properties within the Project Area and approval by ■
the Village Board of Trustees.
• Removal of a traffic calming measure installed via the Village- initiated process shall only be initiated
by the Village and must be approved by the Village Board of Trustees.
Village of -Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
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TRAFFIC CALMING PROCESS
Neighborhood Focus
Most traffic calming programs in the country are set up to be reactive, resident - initiated. That is, a
resident or group of residents petition the local government for traffic calming measures on a particular
street and staff responds to the request. Typically, a process is in place to determine whether the street
qualifies for traffic calming measures and if so what steps must be taken in order to receive approval.
Two advantages to this approach are that 1) public interest has been generated early on in the process and
2) overstretched staffs' keep the project scope limited to the street in question. However, a major
disadvantage to this approach is that solving one problem on a particular street may have repercussions on
surrounding streets and throughout the neighborhood. That is why a new trend in traffic calming
programs is emerging.
The Neighborhood Traffic Study was established to review intersection traffic control and speed limits on
a neighborhood -wide basis. This comprehensive approach was created to assure that consistent decisions
would be made and the neighborhood as a whole would operate safely. And based on the results of our
post- studies, this neighborhood -wide approach is achieving our goal of improving safety. Along this
same line of thinking, the Village supports a traffic calming program that involves an area -wide approach
to best serve the community. Similar to installing a stop sign at one intersection without giving thought to
the impact on the adjacent intersection, constructing traffic calming measures on one street without
considering the impact on the adjacent street(s) may create new problems.
Initial Work
As part of the Neighborhood Traffic Study, eighteen (18) neighborhood zones were created to manage the
study and implementation phases. After implementing the approved sign changes, post - studies were then
performed to determine the effects on the neighborhoods. With the post- studies, the Engineering Division
has been able to collect extensive vehicular volume and speed data including average daily traffic, peak
hour volume, average speeds and 85` percentile speeds on the neighborhood streets. It is from this data
that we have been able to identify streets that experience traffic conditions above the norm.
One of the first steps in the development of this traffic calming process involved the Engineering
Division's review of the post -study data on a neighborhood by neighborhood basis in order to identify
individual streets that would qualify for traffic calming based on the established minimum criteria. Maps
for each neighborhood zone highlighting those streets that currently qualify for traffic calming have been
developed based on the post -study vehicular volume and speed data. These maps will be continually
updated to reflect the most current information as additional traffic studies are performed and more data
gathered in the future.
Resident - Initiated Process
Establishing minimum criteria and identifying streets that qualify for traffic calming allows the program
to focus on the most problematic streets. When the Village receives a traffic complaint and traffic
calming maybe a solution, the first step will be to determine whether the street in question qualifies for
traffic calming. If the Engineering Division believes updated traffic data is necessary then it will be
collected and compared to the established guidelines. Otherwise, the Engineering Division will rely on
the latest post -study data gathered during the Neighborhood Traffic Study.
If the street does not qualify for traffic calming, the Engineering Division will consider less intrusive
solutions such as:
• education resources
• selective speed limit / intersection traffic control enforcement
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
use of the speed display trailer
use of a Police Department drone vehicle
improving sight distance at intersections
appropriate additional signing, striping or pavement markings
The resident or group will then be notified and the issue referred to the Police Department. Similar to
current practice, the Police Department will schedule an enforcement period as time permits. This will
not only include actual speed limit or stop sign enforcement but use of the speed display trailer and a
drone vehicle to improve compliance of the traffic regulations. Education tools such as Keep Kids Alive
— Drive 25 signs and on -site conversations with residents are other options that will continue to be
offered. And as technology further develops, additional measures may be considered by the Police
Department.
Should the street meet any of the established criterions for traffic calming, the Engineering Division will
then determine whether there is support from the neighborhood to consider a traffic calming project. This
will be done through a petition form provided by the Village. The petition form will provide space for
residents to describe their traffic concerns and obtain signatures. One advantage to this step is that getting
public support early in the process should help the Village to work with the neighborhood to address its
concerns. Another advantage is that the traffic concerns described in the petition will help the
Engineering Division determine the appropriate traffic calming measure(s).
If the petition is returned to the Village with signatures from at least 51% of the properties along the
street, the Village will then determine a timetable for formal review. Single family properties and single
use properties such as schools, parks, churches, commercial businesses, etc. will count as one (1). Each
unit within small scale multi - family properties without a management company such as condominium
complexes will also count as one (1) as will small scale commercial properties. For large scale multi- ■
family residential properties such as apartment complexes or large scale multi -unit commercial properties,
only the management company can sign the petition with its signature counted as being equivalent to the
number of buildings on the property. For such large scale properties without a management company,
each unit can sign the petition with the signature to be counted that proportion of the number of buildings
divided by the number of total units on the property. If there are multiple petitions received by the
Village for different streets, they will be prioritized based on the severity of the issue. Each year, the top
projects on the priority list will be selected for study that year, depending upon the availability of funding.
When it is time to begin plan preparation, the Engineering Division will first create a Project Area around
the qualifying street in question. The boundaries will depend on the location of the qualifying street, its
characteristics, and the type and level of the traffic issue(s). Once a Project Area has been created, the
Engineering Division will take reasonable steps to notify those properties within the area that preliminary
plans are being prepared at the request of the neighborhood. This will include sending a notification to
persons who own property within the Project Area but may not live within the area. Should the Project
Area include adjacent streets beyond the qualifying street in question, the notification will be sent to all
affected properties including those on the adjacent streets.
The notification will explain the process to be followed by Staff. It will also include a list of traffic
calming measures being considered by the Engineering Division to address the identified traffic issues.
Residents will be given the opportunity to share their traffic concerns with the Engineering Division and
choose their preferred traffic calming measure(s) via e-mail, regular mail or the telephone. The
notification will also indicate the planned Safety Commission Meeting date and refer residents to a
project web page on the Village web site to keep the public apprised of the project's progress. And lastly,
residents will be given the opportunity to provide the Village an e -mail address that can be used for future
correspondence. This will allow the Engineering Division to stay in close contact with those most
interested in the project and to minimize the number of mailings resulting in a more efficient and
economical process.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
The Engineering Division will next prepare preliminary plans for the Project Area. Resident and property
owner feedback will be taken into account during plan development. Village departments including
Police, Fire and Public Works will next review the plans and provide comments. The plans will then be
refined based on the received comments.
The recommended plan will then be presented to the Safety Commission at a regular meeting. Those
residents within the Project Area who provided an e-mail address will be reminded of the meeting. The
project web page will also be updated to allow residents to view the recommended plan as well as provide
public notice of the meeting. The Village will present the recommended plan and residents will be given
the opportunity to comment. The Safety Commission's objective will be to decide on the elements of a
plan, not to decide on the need for traffic calming measures. The Commission will consider both the
Engineering Division's proposal and comments from the public in order to make a recommendation that
addresses the identified traffic issues. At the end of the meeting, the Safety Commission will either vote
on a plan or direct the Engineering Division to make revisions and bring it back for further discussion at
another meeting.
At this stage, the goal is for the Engineering Division to satisfy the conditions of the Safety Commission
and receive Commission support for a plan. Once this is achieved, the Engineering Division will mail a
ballot to the properties along those streets within the Project Area that have recommended traffic calming
measures included in the plan. A deadline for return will be shown on the ballot. No response or a late
response will be counted as opposition to the plan. Should traffic calming measures be recommended on
adjacent streets in addition to the qualifying street in question, each street will be tallied independent from
one another. A favorable response of a least 66% of the properties on a street will be required to continue
in the process to construct traffic calming measures on that particular street. This may result in streets
being omitted from the project should they not achieve the minimum support required. However, if none
of the qualifying streets within the Project Area satisfy the minimum support required then traffic calming
measures will not be approved on any of the streets within the Project Area regardless of the results on the
other streets.
Similar to the petition process, single family properties and single use properties such as schools, parks,
churches, commercial businesses, etc. will count equally as a single vote. Each unit within small scale
multi - family properties without a management company such as condominium complexes will also have ■
a single vote. The same will be for small scale commercial properties. For large scale multi - family
residential properties such as apartment complexes or large scale multi -unit commercial properties, the
management company will decide and be allotted votes equaling the number of buildings on the property.
For such large scale properties without a management company, each unit's vote will be counted that
proportion of the number of buildings divided by the number of total units on the property.
The ballot mailing will also encourage residents to check the project web page for vote results and state
the Village Board Meeting scheduled for Village Board consideration of the plan should the residents
support a traffic calming project. Residents will once again be given the opportunity to provide the
Village an e-mail address that can be used for future correspondence. If the plan is not supported by those
within the Project Area, residents will be notified via e-mail and the project web page will be updated to
show the vote results. Residents within the Project Area will then have a 30 -day period to file a request
with the Village to have the plan forwarded to the Village Board of Trustees for a final decision. If a
request is made within the timeframe and it is agreed the plan will be heard, an extraordinary vote as -
defined in the Village Code by the Village Board of Trustees will be required to approve the project. In
addition, the Safety Commission can also decide to forward the plan to the Village Board of Trustees for
a final decision. Again, an extraordinary vote by the Village Board of Trustees will be required to
approve the project.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
62
If the plan is not forwarded to the Village Board of Trustees, less intrusive education, enforcement and
engineering measures as described earlier in this section will be considered in lieu of traffic calming
measures. Another petition for traffic calming measures within the same Project Area cannot be
submitted for at least one year after the original vote deadline. Further, the petition will require signatures
from at least 66% of the properties along the qualifying street in order to begin the process again.
Should the plan approved by the Safety Commission be supported by those within the Project Area, it will
then be presented to the Village Board of Trustees. Again, those residents within the Project Area who
provided an e-mail address will be notified of the meeting. The project web page will also be updated to
show the vote results and provide public notice of the meeting. Once Village Staff presents the plan, the
results of the vote, and any comments received from the public, the Village Board of Trustees may
approve the plan by a simple majority vote, direct the Engineering Division to make revisions and bring it
back for further discussion, deny the plan, or take such other action as it deems appropriate.
Should a plan be approved, final construction drawings will be developed and the project will be
scheduled for construction once funds are allocated by the Village. Any street within the Project Area
that did not obtain enough resident support and acquire traffic calming measures cannot petition the
Village again for at least one year after project completion. Such a petition will require signatures from at
least 66% of the properties along the street in question in order to begin the process again.
Should a plan ultimately be denied by the Village Board of Trustees, less intrusive education,
enforcement and engineering measures will be considered as described earlier in this section. Another
petition for traffic calming measures within the same Project Area cannot be submitted for at least one
year after the Village Board of Trustees' decision. Such a petition will require signatures from at least
66% of the properties along the qualifying street in order to begin the process again.
At such time the Engineering Division determines reasonable after completion of the project, a post -study
will be performed to determine its effectiveness and to determine if any additional action is necessary.
The findings will be included in a report to the Village Board of Trustees, Safety Commission and
appropriate Staff. Interested residents within the Project Area will be notified via e-mail and the report
will be posted on the project web page.
As necessary, additional traffic studies may be performed to determine if the traffic calming measures
continue to achieve the desired goals.
Village- Initiated Process
The process as explained above is resident - initiated coupled with a significant amount of up -front work
performed by the Engineering Division. This allows the Village to regulate the number of potential
projects while providing an avenue for residents to get involved early in the process. Doing this up -front
work will also afford the Village the opportunity to identify a street that requires immediate attention.
Factors including a high crash rate, recorded speeds well above a typical residential street, and recorded
volumes excessive for the street classification may cause the Village to initiate a project rather than wait
for resident interest. This may require greater effort in generating resident support at the beginning of the
process but will be necessary if the Village identifies a hazardous condition.
The course of action to be undertaken will be similar to the resident- initiated process but will be initiated
by the Village rather than residents. One other difference is that the recommended plan or variation
supported by the Safety Commission will still be presented to the Village Board of Trustees regardless of ■
resident support. Rather than having a final resident vote, a survey will be sent to the Project Area
soliciting feedback. Resident comments will be forwarded to the Village Board of Trustees for its
consideration before a final decision. A simple majority vote by the Village Board of Trustees will be
required to approve the project.
Village of Mount Prospect
1
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
4
RESOURCES
Traffic Calming: Basics & Beyond, Northwestern University Traffic Institute
Traffic Calming Practice Revisited, ITE/Reid Ewing
Traffic Calming Primer, Pat Noyes & Associates
Traffic Calming: State of the Practice, FHWA/ITE/Reid Ewing
FHWA Traffic Calming Web Site
ITE Traffic Calming Web Site
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways, FHWA
City of Livermore, California Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
City of Madison, Wisconsin Neighborhood Traffic Management Program
City of Monterey, California Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
City of Portland, Oregon Traffic Calming Program
Neighborhood Traffic Management in DuPage County, Illinois — Recommended Actions
Sacramento County Neighborhood Traffic Management Program — "Best Practices" White Paper
Appendix A — Process Flowchart
\1,11111 Pr,,,,mrt
1 1 ?
NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC CALMING PROGRAM " +�•y ' / ` � ■ °
PROCESS FLOWCHART Moanl Proapecf 1
Publi< Works DepaAmenf
RESIDENT - INITIATED PROJECT • • •
VILLAGE-INITIATED PROJECT
REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES
IS IT NECESSARY TO COLLECT UPDATED
TRAFFIC DATA?
DATA COLLECTION
YES PERFORM SITE INSPECTION
COLLECT UPDATED DATA AS NECESSARY
REVIEW ACCIDENT RECORDS
A TRAFFIC CALMING PLAN?
NO
RESl NOT(FIC4TI O N
NO
DOES THE STREET QUALDY FOR
SOLICIT PLAN INPUT FROM RESDIENTS
V ES
TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES?
INDICATE PLANNED S. C. MEETING DATE
PROJECTPRIORITIZ4TlON
CREATE WEB PACE ON VILLAGE WEB SITE
RANK PROJECTS IF MULTIPLE REQUESTS
REQUEST E -MAILS FOR FUTURE NOTICES
DETERMINE TIMETABLE FOR REVIEW
YES
CONSIDER NON- TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES
EDUCATION RESOURCES
ASCERTAIN RESIDENT INTEREST
SELECTIVE ENFORCEMENT
PROVIDE PETITION FORM TO REQUESTOR
SPEED DISPLAY TRAILER
TRAFFIC CONCERNS PUT IN WRITING
POLICE DRONE VEHICLE
CREATE PROJECT
IMPROVING SIGHT DISTANCE
DETERMINE. TYPEIEXTENT OF PROBLEM
�
SIGNING & STRIPING
ESTABLISH LIMITS OF POTENTIAL, IMPACT
I
IDENTIFY POTENTIAL MEASURES
NAS THE MINIMUM PERCENTAGE OF NO
SIGNATURES BEEN OBTAINED TO DEVELOP
A TRAFFIC CALMING PLAN?
RESl NOT(FIC4TI O N
INF PROJECT AREA
MAIL INFORNLITION TO
SOLICIT PLAN INPUT FROM RESDIENTS
V ES
INDICATE PLANNED S. C. MEETING DATE
CREATE WEB PACE ON VILLAGE WEB SITE
REQUEST E -MAILS FOR FUTURE NOTICES
PRELIMIN PLAN DEVELOPMENT
S4FTl Y(J)I4MISS10,V MELI/\( \()I /(E PREPAREENGINEERINGPI.AN
EMSILRENIINDER TOPROJF(T.AREA 1� SOLICIT INPUT FROM VILLAGE DEPTS
UPDATE WEB PAGE ON VI111(.E L4E9 SITE REFINE PLAN AS NECESSARY
DEVELOPCOST ESTIMATE
S.4FETYGOMHISSION ,ME'E fINf: °! vI}ND
STAFFPRESENTS RECOMMENDED PLAN SA FE7YCO:VfDfISSfON DIRECTED REVIEW
SOLICIT INPUT FROM RESIDEN7,S RI \ IFW' S C. & RESIDENT COMMENTS
VOTE TO RECOMMEND PLAN REFINE PLAN AS NECESSARY
SITROS I
7
WAITING PERIOD
30-DAY PERIOD TO REQUEST V. B. DECISION
STAFF/ S.C. CAN ALSO FORWARD PLAN TO V. B.
WILL THE PLAN BE FORWARDED
TOTHE VILLAGE BOARD FOR
A FINAL DECISION'.
NO
PROJECT ARE4 VOTE
MAIL BALLOTS TO PROJECT AREA
INDICATE DEADLINE FOR RETURN
REQUEST E -MAILS FOR FUTURE NO'TIC'ES
NO HAS THE MINIMUM PERCENTAGE. OF
SUPPORTREEN ACHIEVED TO CONSTRUCT
A TRA FFIC CALMING PROJE( "T:'
YES VILLAGE R(Y4RD MEETING NPT!('E
E -NYAIL E V ITA7'ION TO PROJECT :AREA
POST VOTE RE ON VILLAGE W'EBSITE
('LOSEOT RESU PROJ ECT H SO LACE BOARDRO
D REVIE'B F MAIL PR(UEI'C AREA OF DECISION CTAFF PRESENTS REC'OMNIENDED PI,. \N
POST VOTE Rk SL'I,TS OM1 V1LIAGE W F H SITE. SOLICIT LNPL 1 FROM RF,SIDF,N'f5 T COMN'IENTS ('ONS)DER NON 'TRAFFIC' CALMING MEASI RF.S VOTE I'OACCEP7PL.AN REFFNEPLAN .AS NECESSARY
APPROVE
fys4o PLL NDEVELUPMI£h7'
E -MAIL PROJECT .AREA OF DECISION..'
POST VAL DECISION ON VILLAGE WEB SITE
COMPLETE ENGINEERING PLAN
" BID & AWARD PROJECT BASED ON FUNDING"
CONSTRUCTION
mtcr_enmr
E MODIFICATIONSA.SNECESSARY
Appendix B — Minimum Criteria
1 1?�
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
0__
MINIMUM CRITERIA
The Engineering Division has collected extensive vehicular volume and speed data including average
daily traffic, peak hour volume, average speeds and 85"' percentile speeds on most neighborhood streets
as part of the Neighborhood Traffic Study. If updated traffic data is necessary before deciding whether a
street qualifies for traffic calming measures, the Engineering Division will perform a traffic study.
Otherwise, the Engineering Division will rely on the data collected from the Neighborhood Traffic Study.
For a street to qualify for traffic calming measures and begin the petition process, at least one of the
criteria thresholds below must be met.
Speed*
• The average speed is at least 5 mph above the speed limit
• The 85"' percentile speed is at least 9 mph above the speed limit
Volume **
• The average daily traffic is at least 1000 vehicles
• The peak hour volume is at least 120 vehicles
* the 20 mph school speed limit is to be used along streets adjacent to schools, when applicable signs are in place, and when ■
enhancing pedestrian safety is a primary goal; in all other cases the standard posted speed limit for the street is to be used
* * applies only to collector streets adjacent to high pedestrian generator facilities (schools, churches, parks, etc.) and local streets
Should an individual street qualify for traffic calming measures, the Engineering Division will also
identify any surrounding streets that may be significantly impacted by traffic calming measures on the
street in question. The selected surrounding streets may not meet the minimum criteria but could be
adversely impacted if not considered in the development of a traffic calming project. The boundaries of
potential significant impact will define the Project Area.
The only exception to meeting any of the criteria thresholds is if the street has a recent history of crashes
atypical for a neighborhood street and traffic calming measures are the appropriate solution. Should the
Engineering Division identify a high crash rate for the street, the Village has the discretion to initiate
development of a traffic calming project even if none of the vehicular volume or speed criterions are met.
In analyzing the crash reports for a street with a recent history of crashes, the Engineering Division will
first consider less intrusive education, enforcement and engineering measures. If it is determined traffic
calming measures are the appropriate solution, the Engineering Division will begin the Village- initiated
process as described on page 13.
Definitions
These definitions pertain to the criteria thresholds described above and apply to an engineering traffic
study typically lasting between 48 and 72 hours.
average speed — The mean speed, in miles per hour, of all vehicles during the traffic study. It is typically
measured at the midblock of the street.
85"' percentile speed — The speed, in miles per hour, at which 85% of all vehicles during the traffic study
are traveling at or below. It is typically measured at the midblock of the street and represents the basis for
establishing the speed limit.
average daily traffic — The number of vehicles, measured in both directions, passing a point along the
street during a 24 -hour period. It is calculated by dividing the total number of recorded vehicles by the
number of days in the traffic study.
peak hour volume — The highest number of vehicles, measured in both directions, passing a point along
the street during any 1 -hour period during the traffic study.
Appendix C — Petition Form
1 1 "i
Director Deputy Director
Glen R. Andler Sean P. Dorsey
Mount Prospect Public Works Department
1700 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056 -2229
TRAFFIC CALMING PETITION FORM
Pursuant to the guidelines set forth in the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program, in order for the
Village to consider a traffic calming project, the person /group making the request must obtain signatures
from at least 51 % of those properties directly impacted by the request. The attached map indicates those
properties. Based on the _ properties, a minimum of _ signatures is required. Note that only one (1)
signature will be counted for each property. The person/group making the request must make all effort to
notify every property. Once everyone directly impacted by the request has been notified and the
minimum number of signatures has been obtained, the petition form is to be returned to the Public Works
Department. Once the petition has been processed, the Village will then notify everyone in the project
area of the next steps.
A description of the traffic concerns will assist the Village in developing a solution. On the following
lines, please provide the following information:
• Description of problem(s)
• Time(s) of day / day(s) of week when the problem occurs
• Possible causes of the problem
• Any other information the Village should be aware of regarding the problem
Phone 847/870 -5640 Fax 847/253 -9377 www.mountprospect.org
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Appendix D — Project Prioritization Worksheet
1 1?
Village of Mount Prospect 1�
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
Location
DRAFT
Project Prioritization Worksheet
Speed Factor
Speed Limit (mph)
aMi
85th percentile speed (mph)
above s ed limit
Points
1000-1100
9
2
1101 -1200
10
4
1201 - 1300
I1
6
1301 - 1400
12
13 or more
8
10 maximum
whichever is higher
Vahan, Farinr Mr / nra/ Alroatc
average daily traffic
or' peak hour volume
Points
1000-1100
120- 130
1
1101 -1200
131 -140
2
1201 - 1300
141 - 150
3
1301 - 1400
151 -160
4
1401 -1500
161 - 170
5
1501-1600
171 - 180
6
1601-1700
181 - 190
7
1701 -1800
191 -200
8
1801 - 1900
1901 and above
201 -210
211 and above
9
10 maximum
whichever is higher
Vn /umo Fnrinr fnr ('nl /orinr.Clraalc '
average daily traffic or'
peak hour volume
Points
1000- 1300
120- 150
1
1301 - 1600
151 - 180
2
1601 - 1900
181 -210
3
1901 -2200
211 -240
4
2201 -2500
241 -270
5
2501 -2800
271 -300
6
2801 -3100
301 -330
7
3101 -3400
331 - 360
8
340t -3700
361 - 390
9
3701 and above
391 and above
10 maximum
' applies only to collector streets adjacent to high pedestrian generator facilities (schools, churches, parks, ete.)
° whichever is higher
Crash History Factor
Points
1
average ff of annual
Points
crashes (past 3 years
3
1
2
2
4
3
6
4
8
5 or more
10 maximum
Pedestrian Generator Factor
Points
1
9 of affected
Points'
edestrian enerators
3
I
2
2
3
3
4
4
5 or more
5 maximum
' duuhled ifsohou [or park involved
A /dawa /k Fartar
street having sidewalk
1 -10
Points
1
11 -25
2
26-50
3
51 -75
76- 100
4
5 maximum
Points
Recorded Speed & Volume Data
average speed (mph)
85th percentile speed (mph)
average daily traffic volume
peak hour traffic volume
School/Park
Total Points
Appendix E — Traffic Calming Toolbox
Mount Yru. xn
1 1 "i
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E1
TRAFFIC CALMING TOOLBOX
This toolbox was developed to provide guidance on the use of various traffic calming measures
acceptable in the Village of Mount Prospect. It is intended to be used in conjunction with the overall
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program that outlines the goals, policies and processes for addressing
traffic concerns in the Village. Each page provides the following information for different traffic calming
measures:
Description
An illustration and written description is provided for each measure.
Application
Each traffic calming measure is designed to address specific traffic issues. The application section
outlines the common uses for each measure.
Advantages
Each measure in the toolbox provides some advantages to traffic calming and to the quality of life in the
neighborhood. The advantages section outlines the positive impacts associated with each traffic calming
measure.
Disadvantages
Although each measure included in the toolbox provides some positive aspects to traffic calming, each
has negative impacts as well. The disadvantages are outlined so that tools can be evaluated for both their
positive and negative effects.
Variations
There are often several variations of specific traffic calming measures. Several of these are provided
where they are appropriate.
Special Considerations
This section offers a variety of issues that should be considered for each traffic calming measure.
Emergency response and operational concerns are flagged in this section.
Cost
The cost section is intended as a general guide to costs using low, moderate and high designations for the
different measures.
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
C7
Traffic Calming Measures Not Used in the Program
Stop signs are not traffic calming measures. They are traffic control devices that assign right -of -way to
conflicting traffic movements at intersections. They are not to be used for speed control. Traffic studies
have shown there is little difference with vehicle speeds at the midblock whether there is or is not a stop
sign at the adjacent intersection. In some cases, vehicular 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 lost time" at the stop sign.
Stop signs should be installed only at locations where conditions meet criteria established in the Manual
on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Unwarranted stop signs can have a high violation rate, create
disrespect at other stop controlled intersections and create a false sense of security for other road users
and pedestrians.
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 these signs does not necessarily have a long -term
effect on driver behavior. The Village's policy is that such signs will only be installed adjacent to parks
where there is an expectation on the driver's part to see a concentration of children playing.
Village of Mount Prospect V Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E3
Traffic Calming Measures Used in the Program
Education
Enforcement
Signing & Striping
Horizontal Deflection Measures
• Traffic Circle
• Chicane
Constriction Measures
Choke Point
Midblock Median
Vertical Deflection Measures*
+ Speed Hump
Speed Table / Raised Crosswalk
Pedestrian Safety Measures
• Curb Extension
• Pedestrian Refuge
Volume Reducing Measures*
Diverter
Intersection Median Barrier
4- Street Closure
Turn Restriction
* Vertical deflection and volume reducing measures can alter the existing transportation circulation
system. As a result, these measures have impacts that would need to be evaluated in greater scope than
just along one particular street. While they can be a viable solution to a street problem, it is important
not to shift the problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood. Careful consideration must be taken
before using vertical deflection or volume reducing measures.
Village of Mount Prospect ®
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
L-t
EDUCATION
J1 • r`
KEEP KIDS
ALIVE
25
Description
Using different media such as written material, the Village web site, meetings and one -on -one
conversations, Village - generated information is provided to residents.
Application
• Streets that are believed to experience excessive speeding, excessive volume or stop sign violations
as communicated by residents
• Resident groups that wish to play an active role in easing traffic concerns along residential streets
such as participation in the Keep Kids Alive — Drive 25 campaign
Advantages
• Opportunity to discuss extent of problem and appropriate course of action
• Staff able to explain program as well as criteria to qualify for traffic calming measures
• Staff and residents partner to determine appropriate solutions
• Village resources used to communicate Staffs perspective
• Solicit resident involvement to ease traffic concerns
Disadvantages
• Residents may not agree with Staffs perspective or recommendations
Variations
Special Considerations
Residents need to understand process before proceeding with a traffic calming project
Cost: Low other than a considerable amount of Staff time
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
ES
ENFORCEMENT
Description
Enforcement relies on the Police Department to be a presence in neighborhoods and enforce existing
speed limit and traffic control ordinances.
Application
• Streets that are believed to experience excessive speeding or stop sign violations as communicated by
residents
• Streets that have a history of excessive speeding or stop sign violations
Advantages
• Effective while officer present
• Radar speed trailer and drone vehicle can lower vehicle speeds with no officer present
• Use of radar speed trailer and drone vehicle offers flexibility to implement in short notice
• Extent of problem can be discussed with residents and Engineering Division after enforcement period
Disadvantages
• Requires periodic enforcement to have long -term effect
• Staffing limitations stretches Police Department personnel and resources
Variations
Special Considerations
• Often helpful in school zones
• May be used during learning period when new measures or signs first installed
Cost: Low other than a considerable amount of Staff time
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E6
SIGNING & STRIPING
Description
Regulatory, warning and guide signs along with striping and pavement markings are used to provide
guidance to motorists to enhance the safety of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians in a neighborhood.
Application
• Streets that are believed to experience a traffic problem as communicated by residents
• To promote alternative modes of transportation such as walking and biking
Advantages
• Provides definition of traffic ordinances
• Assists Police Department in enforcement efforts
• Inexpensive approach to address a traffic problem
• Providing safe facilities may encourage more residents to walk and bike in neighborhoods
Disadvantages
• Requires periodic enforcement to have long -term effect
• Unrealistic or unwarranted signs tend to be disregarded
• Use of a lot of signs can detract the look of a neighborhood
Variations
Special Considerations
• Consistency from street to street increases expectation on motorists' part
Cost: Low other than a considerable amount of Staff time to enforce
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E7
TRAFFIC CIRCLE
ed
a
r I F
I �
Description
A traffic circle is a raised circular median in an intersection with counterclockwise traffic flow. Vehicles
must change their travel path to maneuver around the circle. They are typically landscaped and have
appropriate signage to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Streets where speed control is desired
• Intersections where there is a high rate of right angle collisions
Advantages
• Reduces vehicle speeds through intersection
• Breaks up sight lines on straight streets
• Landscaping improves aesthetics at intersection
• Can reduce right angle collisions
Disadvantages
• May impede emergency vehicle response
• Narrowed travel lanes may cause bicycle / vehicle conflict
• Creates physical obstruction in the travel way
• Requires some on- street parking removal near intersection
• May impede left turns by large vehicles
Variations
• Can include curb extensions
• Can include diverter islands
Special Considerations
• Should be used in series or in conjunction with other traffic calming devices
• Fire Department and Police Department input necessary with design
• Lighting should be provided at intersection
• May require educational campaign and learning period
Cost: High
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E8
CHICANE
i
Y
S
7
Description
Chicanes create a curved street alignment that is designed to fit in existing rights -of -way. The curvilinear
alignment requires additional maneuvering and reduces motorists' sight line. They can be landscaped and
have appropriate signage or striping to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Streets where speed control is desired
• Straight streets where reduced sight line is desired
Advantages
• Reduces vehicle speeds along street
• Breaks up sight lines on straight streets
• Landscaping improves aesthetics along street
• Minimal impact on emergency vehicle response
Disadvantages
• Requires some on- street parking removal
• Snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations more difficult
• Expensive since they are installed in series along street
• Existing driveways and parkway trees may cause difficulty to design
Variations
• Traffic lanes can be narrowed to have greater impact on vehicle speeds
Special Considerations
• Cannot be used where right -of -way is limited
Cost: High
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program \ At E9
CHOKE POINT
I '
_ ' ' ZY C
- lea
WO
Description
A choke point is a segment of street narrowing where existing street edges or curbs are extended toward
the center of the street. They are typically landscaped and have appropriate signage to safely guide
motorists.
Application
• Streets where speed control is desired
• Shorten midblock pedestrian crossings
Advantages
• Narrowed street section may contribute to lower vehicle speeds
• Landscaping improves aesthetics along street
• Minimal impact on emergency vehicle response
Disadvantages
• Requires some on- street parking removal
• Snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations more difficult
• Narrowed travel lanes may cause bicycle / vehicle conflict
Variations
• Can include crosswalk at high pedestrian crossing areas
Special Considerations
• Should be used in series or in conjunction with other traffic calming devices
Cost: Moderate to high depending on landscaping and storm sewer adjustments
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
\ !V E10
MIDBLOCK MEDIAN
�I
J
Description
A midblock median is a raised island in the center of a two -way street. They can identify the entrance to
a residential area when placed near the intersection of an arterial street. They are typically landscaped.
Application
• Streets where speed control is desired
• Define entry to a residential area
Advantages
• Narrowed and deflected street section may contribute to lower vehicle speeds
• Notifies motorists of change in street character
• Landscaping improves aesthetics along street
• Minimal impact on emergency vehicle response
• Breaks up sight lines on straight streets
Disadvantages
• Requires some on- street parking removal
• Need for ongoing maintenance
• Narrowed travel lanes may cause bicycle / vehicle conflict
• Creates physical obstruction in the travel way
Variations
• Various widths and lengths
• Can incorporate neighborhood identification signing and monument
Special Considerations
• Cannot be used on existing narrow streets
• Care must be taken not to create sight obstruction near intersections
Cost: Moderate to high depending on landscaping
Village or Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
SPEED HUMP
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Description
A speed hump is a raised area of pavement typically 3 to 4 inches in height over a length of 12 to 14 feet.
They have appropriate signage and pavement markings to safely guide motorists over them.
Application
• Local streets where speed control is desired
• Often used in series (typically spaced 250 to 400 feet apart)
• Not to be used on collector streets or primary emergency vehicle response routes
Advantages
• Vertical deflection forces motorists to reduce speed
• Minimal impact on snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations
• Easy installation process
Disadvantages
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Significant impact on emergency vehicle response
• Braking and accelerating increases traffic noise along street
• Typically no landscape element thereby decreasing aesthetics along street
• Requires some on- street parking removal
Variations
• Use colored or textured pavement as streetscaping alternative
• Shapes include parabolic, circular and sinusoidal
• Speed cushion (gaps across width of street) may reduce impact on emergency vehicle response
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Avoid installation near intersections, in front of driveways and storm inlets, and along steep grade streets
Cost: Low to moderate depending on width of street and number in series
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program "xi
E12
SPEED TABLE / RAISED CROSSWALK
Description
A speed table is a raised area of pavement with a flat section in the middle typically 3 to 4 inches in
height over a length of 22 feet. They have appropriate signage and pavement markings to safely guide
motorists over them. They can also include a crosswalk at a pedestrian crossing. Appropriate signage
and pavement markings are provided at these locations to warn motorists of pedestrians.
Application
• Local streets where speed control is desired
• Speed table often used in series (typically spaced 250 to 400 feet apart)
• Raised crosswalk used at uncontrolled locations where a significant amount of pedestrians cross the street
• Not to be used on collector streets or primary emergency vehicle response routes
Advantages
• Vertical deflection forces motorists to reduce speed but not as dramatically as with speed humps
• Enhances pedestrian visibility and likelihood motorists will yield to pedestrians
• Minimal impact on snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations
• Easy installation process
Disadvantages
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Moderate impact on emergency vehicle response
• Braking and accelerating increases traffic noise along street
• Typically no landscape element thereby decreasing aesthetics along street
• Requires some on- street parking removal
Variations
• Use colored or textured pavement as streetscaping alternative
• Use raised crosswalk in combination with curb extensions and/or pedestrian refuge
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Avoid installation near intersections, in front of driveways and storm inlets, and along steep grade streets
Cost: Low to moderate depending on width of street and number in series
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Description
A speed table is a raised area of pavement with a flat section in the middle typically 3 to 4 inches in
height over a length of 22 feet. They have appropriate signage and pavement markings to safely guide
motorists over them. They can also include a crosswalk at a pedestrian crossing. Appropriate signage
and pavement markings are provided at these locations to warn motorists of pedestrians.
Application
• Local streets where speed control is desired
• Speed table often used in series (typically spaced 250 to 400 feet apart)
• Raised crosswalk used at uncontrolled locations where a significant amount of pedestrians cross the street
• Not to be used on collector streets or primary emergency vehicle response routes
Advantages
• Vertical deflection forces motorists to reduce speed but not as dramatically as with speed humps
• Enhances pedestrian visibility and likelihood motorists will yield to pedestrians
• Minimal impact on snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations
• Easy installation process
Disadvantages
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Moderate impact on emergency vehicle response
• Braking and accelerating increases traffic noise along street
• Typically no landscape element thereby decreasing aesthetics along street
• Requires some on- street parking removal
Variations
• Use colored or textured pavement as streetscaping alternative
• Use raised crosswalk in combination with curb extensions and/or pedestrian refuge
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Avoid installation near intersections, in front of driveways and storm inlets, and along steep grade streets
Cost: Low to moderate depending on width of street and number in series
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E13
CURB EXTENSION
Description
A curb extension is a segment of street narrowing at an intersection where existing street edges or curbs
are extended toward the center of the street. They have appropriate signage to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Wide streets with a significant amount of traffic
• Intersections where a significant amount of pedestrians cross the street
Advantages
• Reduces pedestrian crossing distance and time
• Makes pedestrian crossing points more visible to motorists
• Prevents on- street parking near intersection
• Minimal impact on emergency vehicle response
Disadvantages
• Snow removal, leaf pick -up and street sweeping operations more difficult
• Narrowed travel lanes may cause bicycle / vehicle conflict
Variations
• Install on one or both intersecting streets
• Extend edge or curb on one or both sides of streets
Special Considerations
• Should not be used on existing narrow streets
Cost: Moderate to high depending on landscaping and storm sewer adjustments
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E14
PEDESTRIAN REFUGE
Description
A pedestrian refuge is a raised island in the center of a two -way street. The island has a gap in the curb
creating two segments allowing passage for pedestrians. They may or may not be landscaped but have
appropriate signage to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Wide streets with a significant amount of traffic
• Midblock locations where a significant amount of pedestrians cross the street
Advantages
• Allows pedestrians to cross half the street at a time
• Makes pedestrian crossing points more visible to motorists
• Minimal impact on emergency vehicle response
Disadvantages
• Requires some on- street parking removal
• Narrowed travel lanes may cause bicycle / vehicle conflict
• Creates physical obstruction in the travel way
Variations
• Use brick or textured pavement as landscaping alternative
Special Considerations
• Cannot be used on existing narrow streets
Cost: Moderate to high depending on landscaping
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
ZYE15
DIVERTER
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Description
A diverter is a physical barrier that prevents access to specific legs of an intersection. They may or may
not be landscaped but have appropriate signage to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Streets where volume control is desired
• Prevent cut through traffic by eliminating entry onto a residential street
Advantages
• Reduces traffic volume on street
• Bicycle and pedestrian access still provided
Disadvantages
• Prohibits or limits access to local homeowners
• Prohibits or limits access to emergency vehicles
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
Variations
• Full diagonal diverter bisects an intersection
• Semi - diverter prohibits access into a residential area but allows vehicles to exit
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Fire Department and Police Department input necessary with design
Cost: Moderate to high depending on landscaping
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E16
INTERSECTION MEDIAN BARRIER
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Description
An intersection median barrier is a raised island along the center of a two -way street extending through an
intersection to prevent specific turning movements. They may or may not be landscaped but have
appropriate signage to safely guide motorists.
Application
• Streets where volume control is desired
• Need to limit cut through traffic by controlling left -turn and side street through movements
Advantages
• Reduces traffic volume on side street
• Reduces potential for collisions at intersection by eliminating left -turns
• Landscaping improves aesthetics along street
• Breaks up sight lines on straight streets
Disadvantages
• Limits access to local homeowners and emergency vehicles
• Increase in U -turns at ends of medians
• May require some on- street parking removal
• Creates physical obstruction in the travel way
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
Variations
• Various widths and lengths
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Fire Department and Police Department input necessary with design
• Important to maintain pedestrian and bicycle access
Cost: Moderate to high depending on design and landscaping
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
STREET CLOSURE
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Description
A street closure is a physical barrier across a street eliminating all vehicle access. Appropriate signage is
used to warn motorists of condition.
Application
• Streets where volume control is desired
• Prevent cut through traffic by eliminating access onto a residential street
Advantages
• Reduces traffic volume on street
• Reduces noise associated with vehicles
Disadvantages
• Prohibits access to local homeowners
• Prohibits access to emergency vehicles
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
Variations
• Midblock closure creating a dead -end street
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
• Fire Department and Police Department input necessary with design
• Important to maintain pedestrian and bicycle access
Cost: Moderate
Village of Mount Prospect
Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program
E18
TURN RESTRICTION
Description
A turn restriction limits or prohibits specific turning movements by way of signage.
Application
• Streets where volume control is desired
• Prevent cut through traffic by eliminating access onto a residential street
Advantages
• Reduces traffic volume on street
• Inexpensive to install
• Can be tailored to be time of day and day of week specific
Disadvantages
• Limits access to local homeowners
• Requires enforcement since no physical barrier
• Traffic may shift to an adjacent street or neighborhood
Variations
• Can use striping, pavement markings and /or a physical barrier to emphasize turn restriction
Special Considerations
• Care must be taken not to shift problem to an adjacent street or neighborhood
Cost: Low
Appendix F — Primary Emergency Vehicle Response Route Map
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PRIMARY EMERGENCY VEHICLE RESPONSE ROUT MAP N
VILLAGE OF MOUNT PROSPECT