Traffic Calmer March 2007

In 2000, like many other cities, the Consolidated Government of Lafayette (LCG) faced numerous complaints from residents about speeding vehicles on local streets. Since the Consolidated Government encompasses a large area with a population of nearly 200,000, including the city of Lafayette, Louisiana and surrounding rural areas, they wanted to create a solution that would engage residents.

By 2001, a plan was created that empowered the residents of Lafayette. A resolution was passed that outlined guidelines for residents to follow in order to obtain traffic calming on their streets. When a resident calls the municipality to complain about speeding or non-local traffic, LCG sends them a packet about basic traffic calming principles and an explanation of the adopted process. Guidelines regarding neighborhood acceptance, vehicle speed, and volume of cars are identified to determine if the area qualifies.

The first step in the process is to get 5-10 signatures of concerned people in the neighborhood to form a steering committee. Officials then meet with these residents to determine the area that will be affected and to identify specific concerns. At least 50% of people living in the affected area must agree to a traffic study. Criteria must then be met regarding the volume and speed of vehicles on the street. A neighborhood meeting is called and a plan is developed for what type of devices will be used and where they will be installed.

A formal petition is then sent out to all of the neighborhood residents, 66% of whom must agree to the devices and their locations. Once this is completed, a resolution is sent to the city parish council for informational purposes.

While the system can appear to be bureaucratic, it is thorough and applied fairly throughout the jurisdiction. It has allowed the government to create a model traffic calming program that empowers its residents. Since the start of the program, the Lafayette Traffic and Transportation Department has installed 130 devices in the area including 116 speed lumps (speed cushions) and 14 mini roundabouts.