What is Traffic Calming?

The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) defines traffic calming as “changes in street alignment, installation of barriers, and other physical measures to reduce traffic speeds and/or cut-through volumes, in the interest of street safety, livability, and other public purposes.”

Athens-Clarke County Neighborhood Traffic Management Program

The purpose of the Athens-Clarke County Neighborhood Traffic Management Program is to reduce accidents, traffic volumes and/or speeds; thereby improving pedestrian safety and creating more pleasant neighborhoods for the citizens of Athens-Clarke County.

Below, please find some methods of traffic calming used in Athens-Clarke County:

RUBBERIZED SPEED TABLES
Highly reflective, pre-formed, and portable rubber speed tables.Compression molded 100% recycled synthetic and natural rubber composite

For every section of rubberized speed table, 5 tires are recycled.

There are 10 rubberized speed tables on Valleywood Drive and Ansley Drive , which equates to approximately 9800 recycled tires (maybe more, as  each table is 22 feet wide).

ACC Mayor & Commission approved two 20' speed tables for Calhoun Drive -- there were approximately 1960 tires not going to a Landfill! 

RADAR SIGNS
Radar speed signs display the speed of oncoming vehicles using highly visible LEDs to make motorists aware when they are driving at unsafe speeds. The data collection software includes the capability to count average, 85th percentile, maximum, and minimum speeds. Signs purchased with the optional solar panel also provide reduced energy costs for the county.

Radar signs are presently located on College Avenue, Hill Street/Plaza, S. Homewood Drive, and King Avenue.

The Athens-Clarke NTMP strives to utilize all types of traffic calming devices to address neighborhood concerns. ACC recognizes that a "one device fits all" approach is not desirable, and the program specifically encourages each neighborhood to develop a traffic calming solution that addresses their specific needs.

For more information on the NTMP or to begin the process in your neighborhood, contact the Traffic Engineering Office 706-613-3460.

View the NTMP Policy.