Placement: Proclamations and Special presentations
Action Requested: Discussion
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Residential Street Areawide Speed Limit Analysis
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Submitted By: Laura H. Dodd, AICP, Planner II
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal of high-quality infrastructure and facilities.
Executive Summary (General Business): During the October 19, 2020 City Council hearing, concern was raised pertaining to whether the speed limits throughout the bulk of Port St. Lucie’s neighborhoods were adequate to serve pedestrians. Planning Staff reviewed these concerns and initiated a “blanket” speed limit study. The study is necessitated per Section 316.189, F.S. which stipulates: Within residential districts, a municipality may set a maximum speed limit of 20 or 25 MPH on local streets after an investigation determines that such a limit is reasonable. Municipalities may set speed zones altering such speeds, both as to maximum and minimum, after investigation determines such a change is reasonable and in conformity to criteria promulgated by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) consistent with Section 316.189, F.S. The attached study provides for such criteria for evaluation.
Presentation Information: Stewart Robertson of Kimley Horn shall provide a presentation.
Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends proceeding with the areawide speed limit reduction and installing all new signs with FDOT-standard round aluminum posts.
Background: Upon directive to address growing concerns of pedestrian safety within the City, relating to the lack of sidewalks on local streets coupled with higher rates of vehicular speed, Planning staff initiated and completed a Speed Limit Reduction Study for City Council review and consideration. Following the October 2020 approval of the Multimodal Plan, Staff initiated implementing a recommendation within the plan to address these concerns: Speed Limit Reduction Study. On February 22, 2021 an amended agreement to the Multimodal Plan was approved providing consultant, Kimley Horn, a contract to complete such a study. The Study involved local traffic data collection and analysis, mapping of impacted neighborhood streets, precedent research of similar communities, and final documentation. During the study process, Planning and Public Works staff routinely met with the consultant to ensure cohesion in vision was being accomplished. In June of 2021 the study was completed and is presented herein for Council consideration.
Issues/Analysis: See attached Residential Street Areawide Speed Limit Analysis
Financial Information: n/a
Special Consideration: n/a
Location of Project: n/a
Attachments: 1. Residential Street Areawide Speed Limit Analysis
2. Public Works Recommendation
3. Kimley Horn Presentation
NOTE: All of the listed items in the “Attachment” section above are in the custody of the City Clerk. Any item(s) not provided in City Council packets are available upon request from the City Clerk.
Internal Reference Number: n/a
Legal Sufficiency Review:
N/A