Implementation Process

The program described herein applies only to local and minor collector residential roadways. This is because the sensitivity to maintain the character of these roadways, and because the primary function of these types of roadways is for property access rather than to accommodate larger volumes of through (bypass) traffic in a free-flowing manner.

The following objectives for residential roadways have been identified for the Alameda County Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program:

  • Increase motorist awareness of the residential character of the neighborhood
  • Reduce motorist speed
  • Discourage bypass traffic on local and minor collector roadways
  • Reduce traffic collisions
  • Promote a pleasant environment for pedestrians, bicyclists, and non-motorized roadway users
  • Improve community awareness in residential neighborhoods
  • Maintain Emergency Service response time

In addition, the following are auxiliary objectives of the program:

  • Involve local residents in developing the traffic calming program for their neighborhood
  • Provide a step process, which is streamlined and well-defined, to address residents' requests for traffic calming measures
  • Establish consistent screening criteria for implementing traffic calming measures where applicable
  • Establish design guidelines for installing traffic calming measures
  • Provide for prioritized, cost effective implementation of traffic calming devices

Step Process

The process for developing and implementing traffic calming measures in a neighborhood involves the participation of the community and governmental entities including Public Works Agency, Community Development Agency, CHP, and the Sheriffs and Fire Departments. The following steps are included in the process for implementing traffic calming measures (the responsible party for each step is identified by italics):

  • Define the neighborhood in terms of surrounding roadway network, circulation boundaries, and connections to arterial and collector roadways. (Public Works and the neighborhood)
  • Determine the level of community support for the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program (generally in the form of a petition letter from residents and property owners representing 2/3 of the neighborhood's properties). (Public Works and the neighborhood)
  • Discuss the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program with residents and/or property owners to identify traffic issues and determine objectives for the neighborhood. (Public Works and the neighborhood)
  • Study traffic conditions (traffic volumes, motorist speed, on-street parking demands, typical travel routes, emergency service, etc.) and identify types of measures that may be applicable and effective in achieving neighborhood objectives. (Public Works)
  • Develop a preliminary implementation plan of traffic calming measures and alternatives and present the plan to the neighborhood. (Public Works)
  • Negotiate an implementation plan with neighborhood residents and specific affected property owners. (Public Works and the neighborhood)
  • Revise implementation plan to assimilate comments from the neighborhood and commitments obtained from affected property owners and/or residents, if necessary. (Public Works)
  • Negotiate appropriate financial participation from the neighborhood, if necessary. (Public Works and the neighborhood)
  • Implement traffic calming measures including any necessary design and construction. (Public Works)
  • Perform follow-up evaluation of whether neighborhood objectives were met. (Public Works)
  • Repeat steps 5 through 10 if necessary.

When a physical traffic calming measure is approved, installation of the device will be installed after all appropriate steps are completed (environmental review, preparation of plans and specifications, construction, and inspection).