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Traffic

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1. Why are "SLOW - Children at Play" signs so rare?

Cities have long been discouraged to use this sign, since it is a direct and open suggestion that playing in the roadway is acceptable and safe, when it clearly is not. In addition, it’s unlikely that drivers who ignore regulatory signs, such as speed limit signs, would pay attention to “SLOW - Children at Play” signs.

2. Why aren’t all crosswalks at intersections painted?

Studies indicate that more accidents involving pedestrians actually occur in marked crosswalks than unmarked crosswalks. One reason may be the false sense of security that painted crosswalks provide. Therefore, crosswalks should be marked only where necessary for the guidance and control of pedestrians, per the City’s guidelines.

3. How does the City determine speed limits?

Engineers establish speed limits using:
• The road’s 85th percentile of speed (85 percent of drivers travel at this speed or lower).
• Roadway characteristics.
• Accident records.

Studies have shown that simply reducing the speed limit does not slow down traffic, since drivers behavior is based on the characteristics of the roadway.

4. How does the City determine which intersections include stop signs?

When used at the right place, and under the right conditions, a stop sign is one of our most valuable and effective traffic control devices. We use national and state standards when determining if a stop sign is needed. Stop signs are generally used to help drivers determine the right of way at an intersection. Sometimes stop signs are also necessary due to physical obstructions.

Using stop signs to control speeding, however, is ineffective because traffic will only slow or stop in the immediate vicinity of the stop sign. Oftentimes, speeds are actually higher between intersections to make up for the time lost for stopping.