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* *INSERT PHOTO ** <br /> * Narrow streets improve neighborhood character. The positive environmental, land <br /> use, and traffic safety impacts of narrow streets all work to improve the character and <br /> livability of residential neighborhoods. The 1980 Bucks County, Pennsylvania <br /> publication, Performance Streets, recognized that the purpose of local streets should be <br /> "not solely to move traffic safely and efficiently, but to ensure that the needs of people <br /> for a residential neighborhood that is quiet, safe, pleasant, convenient, and sociable are <br /> met as well." <br /> Two of the most frequent concerns expressed by residents are high traffic speeds and cut through <br /> traffic in a neighborhood. Often, both are a result of poor local street design. As a result, the <br /> typical remedy is increased traffic control and enforcement. Even with the additional control it is <br /> difficult to manage the problem for a sustained period of time. The best solution is to create <br /> geometric street designs that self - enforce the desired levels of speed and traffic. <br /> Traffic volumes on local streets are typically low and on -street parking demand can vary, <br /> depending on the density of adjacent development, the vehicle ownership rates of local <br /> residents, and the amount of on -site parking provided on lots fronting the street. The design <br /> and appearance of local streets should be consistent with the intended function of the street. <br /> Generally, the design standards for these streets should promote relatively narrow widths, <br /> short lengths, and alignments which encourage slow traffic speeds and discourage through <br /> traffic. <br /> Generally: <br /> * Streets should be designed with gentle curves and changes in grade. If drivers can see <br /> for several blocks down a street, they tend to increase their speed. Curves, changes m <br /> grade, and other design features interrupt the sight line of the road into smaller visual <br /> elements and cause drivers to slow down. <br /> * *INSERT PHOTO ** <br /> * Local street lengths should be short. Shorter street lengths also create smaller visual <br /> elements. Instead of focusing their attention far down the road, drivers become more <br /> aware of pedestrian, bicycle and other nearby activity which causes drivers to reduce <br /> speed. <br /> * *INSERT PHOTO ** <br />