Do you have questions about speed limits or stop signs? Or concerns about traffic in your neighborhood? The City gets many requests for stop signs, reduced speeds, and other traffic control tools. Below, you'll find answers to common questions and concerns. If you are looking for in-depth information about traffic control, lights, and signs, please explore Signs, Signals, and Street Safety.
Concerns about Speeding or Crashes
Residents often have concerns about people going too fast down residential streets. Common requests to help decrease speeding include new signs.
Can Electronic "Your Speed" Signs Help?
Sometimes. "Your Speed" signs (which show drivers their current speed) can help to reduce speeding in some instances. Usually, these signs are placed temporarily in areas where speeding is a confirmed issue. To inquire about getting a "Your Speed" sign placed, please call Traffic Engineering at 720-898-7740. Engineering will follow a process to see whether, and to what degree, a "Your Speed" sign could be effective in your area.
Can Talking with Neighbors Help?
Yes. Raising awareness about speeding and similar issues can help to change people's behavior. In a lot of residential areas, it is residents of the neighborhood who are speeding. If a community conversation starts, people may adjust their driving habits and help contribute to a safer community. For tips on starting a neighborhood group and more, check out Neighbors Connected.
Will a Lower Speed Help?
Unfortunately, research suggests that lower speed limits do not have a big impact on reducing speed. In Colorado, the speed limit on local streets (unless otherwise posted) is 30 mph. Whether posted or not, some people do not adhere to posted speed limits. This is unlawful and puts pedestrians and other drivers at risk. Police Officers enforce speed limits. To report a speeding driver, please call non-emergency dispatch at 720-898-6900.
Do Children At Play Signs Slow People Down?
No. In fact, some studies suggest that these signs can decrease safety. These signs can introduce new dangers. Some residents may feel more secure when these signs are present. Children may be more prone to play in the street and others may be less vigilant. Due to the serious concerns over the effects of the signs, neither federal nor state regulations recognize their effectiveness.
How Do You Decide Where Traffic Signals Are?
Traffic engineers evaluate many factors in determining whether a signal is appropriate. The safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians is always considered. Read more at Signs, Signals, and Street Safety.
How Do You Decide Where to Put Stop Signs?
Traffic engineers evaluate intersections for stop control. Specific criteria are used to determine the appropriate location for stop signs. When unneeded stop signs are introduced, they may contribute to speeding and crashes.
Can My Neighbors and I Petition for a Speed Bump?
No. Speed bumps are not allowed on public streets in Arvada. Speed bumps may harm fuel efficiency, increase pollution, create frustration, and can cause wear on cars and trucks. Speed bumps are not an effective traffic control option for residential areas.