Exh 2AAGENDA ITE11I #2A
JANUARY 12, 2004
STAFF REPORT
City of Atlantic Beach
Commission Meeting
AGENDA ITEM: Report on Traffic Calming
DATE: December 16, 2003
SUBMITTED BY: David E. Thompson, Chief of Police/DPS
BACKGROUND:
At the November 24, 2003 City Commission meeting, questions were asked relative to
measures that might be considered to address the speeding traffic in the 300 block of Plaza
Drive. Some of the Commissioners expressed concern with installing speed bumps, and the
City Commission directed the Police Department to bring back other options and alternatives
for consideration.
The expertise in the Police Department is somewhat limited in this area. Although staff
members are familiar with the concepts and principles of Traffic Calming, the Police
Department does not have anyone on staff that has the expertise of a traffic engineer.
However, through the efforts and contacts of Public Works Director Bob Kosoy, an
engineering firm with traffic expertise has offered to provide a report to the City
Commission, at no cost, relative to traffic calming options in the 300 block of Plaza Drive.
Volkirt & Associates is planning to present a report at the January 12, 2004 City Commission
to discuss Traffic Calming options for Plaza Drive.
Relative to enforcement issues, it is significant to recognize that additional police
enforcement is an option for reducing speeding on Plaza Drive. However, it is also important
to recognize that the Police Department is currently training a number of new officers, and
the manpower does not exist to dedicate traffic officers on this roadway for an extended
period of time. Additionally, the only way that enforcement will bring the speeds down and
keep the speeds down, is with frequent, ongoing speed enforcement. With other competing
demands for policing services, and considering the costs of such services, Traffic Calming
strategies will probably be more cost effective than simply writing traffic citations.
For information about Traffic Calming, we recommend reviewing website:
httn://www.trafficcalmin~. ors/
BUDGET: NONE
RECOMMENDATIONS: NONE
ATTACHMENTS: NONE
REVIEWED BY CITY MANAGER: ~ ~/
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