What is Traffic Calming? Many groups have difficulty in clearly defining "Traffic Calming". The City of Reno uses the definition adopted by The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE):
"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". Reid Ewing, Traffic Calming: State of the Practice, Institute of Transportation Engineers, 1999.
Traffic calming treatments include speed tables, median islands, and traffic circles. Some traffic calming treatments slow traffic and others reduce traffic volumes.
Where can traffic calming be installed and how do I get traffic calming on my street? Traffic calming treatments may be installed on streets classified as local or minor collector streets, that are not classified as Primary Emergency Vehicle Routes (PEVR). The first time citizens notice speeding in their neighborhood, they should contact Reno Direct to report the problem. If police respond and the problem doesn't go away or it gets progressively worse, please contact Traffic Engineering.What is the method for ranking? Traffic calming petitions are accepted each year between July 1st and June 30th. Staff evaluates all petitions for accuracy and conducts a seven day speed study for each street that has submitted a traffic calming petition with signatures from a minimum of 2/3 of the residents within the petition area. Please see the traffic calming policy and petition.How are streets prioritized for funding? The priorities are based on availible funding for the current fiscal year.Traffic Calming Meetings Once a street has been prioritized for funding, residents may participate in a public meeting to learn more about traffic calming. In addition to this, public input is shared with City staff regarding which type of traffic calming treatments and their potential locations are desired. Many departments from the City participate in the public meetings to discuss traffic calming.
Representatives from the Police Department and Traffic Engineering attend public meetings to hear resident's concerns, educate them regarding traffic calming, and assist residents in determining the best possible traffic calming plan for their neighborhood. Information on upcoming traffic calming meetings are available for veiwing. Staff encourages residents to preview this information prior to the meeting in order to be better prepared. If you have any questions, please contact Traffic Engineering.