Traffic Calming

 

Traffic calming consists of design measures on existing roads that reduce vehicle speeds and enhance the safety of pedestrians. At intersections, for example, "traffic calming islands" (also called "bulb-outs") replace a parking lane close to the intersection. This design slows the traffic and creates a safer pedestrian crossing.

 

Visual changes to roads encourage more attentive driving, reduce speeds, reduce crashes, and increase the tendency of drivers to yield to pedestrians. Visual traffic calming includes lane narrowings (9'–10'), road "diets" (a reduction in lanes), the use of trees next to streets, on-street parking, and buildings placed closer to streets.