Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan Calls for Comprehensive Analysis of City Speed Control Measures
Providence, RI (June 21, 2021)….At the June 17th City Council meeting, Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan introduced and the Council passed a resolution calling on the City’s Commissioner of Public Safety and Traffic Engineer to conduct a comprehensive study on all of the speed control measures and signage installed in the City in the last year.
“While not all may agree on Traffic calming measures, they are an important tool in protecting public health and safety when implemented correctly and after appropriate community engagement. The most recent traffic calming measures that have been installed across the City have come under scrutiny surrounding their design and effectiveness. Some speed humps were ultimately removed resulting in additional cost. I am advocating for a comprehensive study of our City’s use of traffic calming measures so that we can ensure that they are designed and installed in the correct manner and that after installation they are evaluated for effectiveness,” stated Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5).
The resolution requests that the Commissioner of Public Safety and the Traffic Engineer provide the City Council with a comprehensive analysis and report of all traffic calming measures installed in the last year, pre and post installation traffic data, costs of installation, and an implementation plan to immediately undertake all necessary steps to correct any identified deficiencies.
“Residents want to feel safe and comfortable on their own streets. I am optimistic that this study will give us a better understanding of what works for all, and we will be able to use this information in future planning. I look forward to the continued work with our Public Safety and Traffic Engineering departments to ensure that we make our city safe and welcoming for everyone”, added Councilwoman Ryan.
Upon passage, copies of this resolution will be sent to Mayor Jorge Elorza, the Commissioner of Public Safety and the Traffic Engineer.
This resolution was co-sponsored by Council President John J. Igliozzi (Ward 7), Council President Pro Tempore Pedro Espinal (Ward 10), Majority Whip Carmen Castillo (Ward 9), Councilwoman Helen Anthony (Ward 2), Councilman John Goncalves (Ward 1). Councilwoman Nirva LaFortune (Ward 3) and Councilor Rachel Miller (Ward 13), Councilor David Salvatore (Ward 14).
####
