Navigating the Process for Traffic Calming and Sidewalk Requests
We all want to feel safe when walking, biking, or driving in our neighborhoods. That’s why in July of this year, Takoma Park updated the policies and procedures for requesting new traffic calming measures and sidewalks. Get caught up on what you need to know to ensure your concerns are addressed.
How to Request a New Traffic Calming Device
If you live within a quarter-mile (1320 feet) of an area that you think could benefit from speed humps, raised crosswalks, or other traffic calming measures, you can submit a request to the City Manager. Just fill out the online Traffic Calming and Sidewalk Request form. The City will then evaluate factors like crash data, pedestrian safety, and neighborhood demographics to prioritize your request.
After your request is reviewed, the city will hold a public meeting to get feedback from the community on the proposed traffic calming project. Based on that input, the city will develop a design and submit it for city council funding approval during the budget process.
How to Request a New Sidewalk
Similar to traffic calming, city residents can also request new sidewalks within a quarter-mile of their home using the same online request form. The city will evaluate factors like pedestrian safety, social equity across neighborhoods, nearby attractions that generate foot traffic, and the feasibility of installing a new sidewalk in that location.
After reviewing your sidewalk request, The city will hold a public meeting to discuss the proposed project design. Feedback will be collected from the community before finalizing the plans. Approved sidewalk projects will then be prioritized for review during the budget process. Once approved, projects will be scheduled for construction.
Stay Involved and Informed
The city will publish an annual list of all evaluated traffic calming and sidewalk requests, including which projects have been funded for that year. You can review this list and provide input during the city’s budgeting process.
Be reminded, the City may also proactively install traffic calming devices or new sidewalks even without a resident request, as part of their ongoing efforts to improve safety and accessibility across the community.
Have a concern?
If you’ve identified an area that could use some traffic calming or a new sidewalk, don’t hesitate to submit a request. The city is committed to using data and community input to prioritize projects that will have the biggest positive impact. Together, we can make our streets safer and more walkable for everyone.
Helpful Links:
- The Traffic Calming and Sidewalk Request form
- Traffic Calming and Sidewalk Administrative Regulations webpage.
Let’s work together to improve our neighborhoods!
This article appeared in the December Edition of the Takoma Park Newsletter. Check out this article and more on the City webpage.
