Slow Zone Update

Summary

ACHD collected traffic speed data in February and in April.

Overall, data shows that the Pilot, which combined engineering, enforcement, education and enthusiastic support of the neighborhood, has made progress in lowering vehicle speeds. On average, speeds decreased by 2 mph, with some streets seeing up to a 4 mph reduction, though reductions varied based on street and prior speed limit.

A 1 to 1.5 MPH difference in average speed is considered within the typical variation on any given street. In lower speed limit ranges, speeds reduced in the 3-4 MPH range shows a change in driver behavior. There are a variety of factors that could have contributed to change. For instance, the speed reductions on Fort St could be influenced by the current downtown traffic signal re-timing effort. The average speed reduction on Harrison Blvd of 4 MPH at two separate locations is significant. This reduction may be impacted by emotional investment in the pilot.

We appreciate the strong support of local law enforcement for their dedication to both education and enforcement throughout the North End. From January through March, Boise Police Department conducted over 1,000 traffic stops, compared to 243 in the same time last year. 266 Traffic Citations were issued, a 619% increase from last year.

Code Enforcement was also hard at work ensuring residents are well informed and parking near intersections and stop signs remain clear.

So where do we go next? ACHD and the City of Boise are actively discussing possible parking signing and curb painting changes. ACHD will gather another set of speed data in about three months. In addition to the numbers, we are interested in your perspective, and will partner with the NENA Board to conduct a survey for neighbors later this summer.

Speed data is available here.