Traffic Calming (Speed Hump) Policy*

Speed humps are one of the most frequently requested traffic calming roadway feature on residential streets.  The Traffic Calming Program has established criteria to uniformly evaluate requests from citizens and associations for speed humps.  Speed humps are installed on two-types of non-thoroughfare roadways under the Village's jurisdiction consisting of residential streets and residential collectors.  The evaluation criteria includes:

*   High daily traffic volumes (+1,500 for residential streets and +3,000 for residential collectors)

*   High speed (+50% of vehicles in excess of posted speed limit)

*   Traffic cut-through problem greater than 10%

*   A pattern of accidents that would be addressed by traffic calming

*   Road in proximity to schools, parks or recreational areas

*   Neighborhood consensus (written support from the Homeowners Association (HOA), or if no HOA, petitions from 67% of homeowners on the road which driveway is within 300 feet from a proposed speed hump)

Palm Beach County Traffic Division has developed standards for designing and constructing speed humps and associated striping and signing, which the Village has adopted by reference.  The 22 feet wide and 3.5 inches high Seminole-Type (6' ramp on either end of a 10' flat top) is the most frequently used.  It provides the proper balance between traffic calming, level of discomfort, and accommodation of emergency vehicles.  It is constructed using asphalt and has the same service life as the road.  Wide stripes and posted reflective signs ensure good daytime and nighttime visibility.

Speed humps shall not be installed within 400 feet of a traffic signal or a stop sign in the same direction.  Speed humps are typically spaced between 400 feet and 800 feet.

The traffic volume, percent speeding and neighborhood consensus are the most important criteria.  Cut-through traffic, crash history and location are secondary consideration.

II.   VILLAGE CONSTRUCTED AND RESIDENT FUNDED SPEED HUMPS

For residential streets under the Village's jurisdiction that do not meet the volume and speeding thresholds for installing speed humps, the Public Service Director and/or Village Engineer can still approve and construct the Seminole speed humps under two conditions:

1.   HOA payment of the cost of construction that includes construction, striping and reflective signs.  The cost per speed hump can be obtained by contacting the Public Service Department at 561.965.5770.

2.   HOA resolution by its board in support of the speed humps and payment is required.  The payment is via a cashier check payable to the Village of Palm Springs.

The Public Service Director and/or Village Engineer will work with the HOA or residents to identify the number and optimal location of speed humps and to coordinate the construction work.

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*Palm Beach County Traffic Calming Policy adopted March 4, 1997

Please contact the Planning, Zoning and Building Department for further information and to set up a more informational appointment at (561) 584-8200 Ext. 8460