Which statement best describes the purpose of traffic calming measures?

Which statement best describes the purpose of traffic calming measures?

• A. Traffic calming uses physical or programmatic measures to slow or redirect traffic for safety.
• B. Traffic calming aims to increase roadway capacity by widening lanes.
• C. Traffic calming reduces pedestrian safety.
• D. Traffic calming eliminates traffic signals on all streets.

Answer: (A)

Traffic calming uses a mix of physical design and policy tools to slow or redirect vehicles, with safety for all road users as the primary goal. Physical measures like speed bumps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, and lane narrowing physically slow or channel traffic. Programmatic measures such as lower speed limits, targeted enforcement, and neighborhood initiatives support these effects. This combination directly aims to reduce speeds and protect pedestrians and cyclists, which is why it’s the best description. It does not seek to increase capacity by widening lanes, it does not reduce pedestrian safety, and it does not aim to remove traffic signals on all streets.

Traffic calming uses a mix of physical design and policy tools to slow or redirect vehicles, with safety for all road users as the primary goal. Physical measures like speed bumps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, and lane narrowing physically slow or channel traffic. Programmatic measures such as lower speed limits, targeted enforcement, and neighborhood initiatives support these effects. This combination directly aims to reduce speeds and protect pedestrians and cyclists, which is why it’s the best description. It does not seek to increase capacity by widening lanes, it does not reduce pedestrian safety, and it does not aim to remove traffic signals on all streets.