Traffic calming is a term used to describe a combination of mostly physical features that are intended to reduce speeding on neighbourhood roads and improve safety conditions for everyone who uses the road.
The traffic calming treatment available for a road depends on the classification of the road. Review the Residential Speed Survey map for road classifications.
- For minor collector and local roads, some examples of traffic calming measures include speed cushions, roundabouts and flexible bollards.
- Arterial and major collector roads are not eligible for physical traffic calming measures but may qualify for passive traffic calming features such as radar speed display signs.
These types of measures, if applied appropriately, can successfully reduce vehicle speeds and volumes in residential neighbourhoods.
Physical traffic calming
Curb extension
- Widening of curb into roadway, typically at intersections to reduce vehicle speeds
- Slows vehicles making turns and reduces crossing distance for pedestrians
- Provides opportunity for visual/landscape enhancement
Roundabout
- A roundabout is a circular intersection where drivers travel counter-clockwise around a centre island
- Aesthetically pleasing, while enhancing safety
- Already implemented in several locations in Oakville
Raised centre median
- An elevated median constructed in the centre of the roadway
- Helps slow traffic without reducing capacity, while providing visual aesthetic
- Reduction in pedestrian-vehicle conflict
Traffic circle
- An island located at the centre of an intersection, which requires vehicles to travel through the intersection in a counterclockwise direction around the island
Concrete speed cushion
- The Town of Oakville has implemented this measure in most school zones in the town
- Features a centre 'knock-down' post allowing emergency vehicles to pass
- Slows passenger vehicles via a small speed hump on roadway
- Designed to accommodate wide wheelbase of emergency vehicles (easy passage)
- Use on local and collector roads
Speed humps
- A raised area of a roadway, which causes the vertical upward movement of a passing vehicle
- Speed humps reduce vehicle design speeds by making it uncomfortable to drive at high speeds
Passive traffic calming
Radar speed display signs
- Displays speed of vehicle to its driver via an electronic display
- Provides driver with feedback regarding vehicle operating speed
- Can be permanently or temporarily installed
Pavement markings
- Used on roadway used to define space for vehicles (edge lines, cycle lanes)
- Clearly indicate driving space
Narrow driving lanes
- Narrower the driving lanes encourage drivers to slow down
Request traffic calming measures
To initiate a request for traffic calming on your road, please review the Traffic Calming Implementation process.