Slow Zones

Purpose Slow Zones_Pictures.png

Reduce speeds and facilitate safer mobility for all roadway users in residential neighborhoods, especially around schools.

Description

Slow zones are areas with a permanent low speed limit in place 24 hours a day/7 days a week, currently located in Arlington near schools. Speed limit signs introduce the presence of a slow zone, with speed limits set at 20 mph.

Arlington currently applies slow zones on local streets near schools. School slow zones may include elements such as school crossing warning signs, high visibility crosswalks, school speed limit signs, speed limit pavement markings, and speed cameras

Safety Benefits

  • Manage speeds.
  • Increase driver awareness of vulnerable road users.
  • Reduce severe crash outcomes by reducing speeds.

Street Types and Context

Applicable Street Types

Local streets. May also be applicable on some collector streets, e.g., School Slow Zones within 600 feet of a school.

Primary User Groups

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Key Implementation Considerations

  • School slow zone treatments should be applied within 600 feet of a school crossing or access point.

Expected Crash Reduction

Currently under evaluation. Slow zones have reduced injuries by 30% in some jurisdictions (NYCDOT).

Cost

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Varies, depending on the number and type of treatments.

Timeline

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One to three years, depending on the measures and materials selected (quick-build or long term capital project).

Application in Arlington 

Visit Vision Zero Program Dashboard: School Beacon to see where this tool has been implemented.

Vision Zero Dashboard

References

 

 

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