HomeMy WebLinkAboutVII(C) Review and Update of City's Traffic Policies and Criteria for Implementation of Traffic Calming on Residential Streets Agenda 7/6/04
Mayor � center of Good id Commissioners Item VII. C.
S. Scott Vandergrift Danny Howell District 1
E ; Scott Anderson, District 2
Acting City Manager ° Rusty Johnson, District 3
V. Eugene Williford, 111 ;5 Nancy J. Parker, District 4
STAFF REPORT
TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners
FROM: Robert B. Zaitooni, P.E., Deputy Director Public Works
DATE: June 15, 2004
RE: Revisions to City's Traffic Policies
ISSUE:
Should the Honorable Mayor and City Commissioners consider the current City's Traffic Policies
and provide direction to staff for the update the policies and criteria?
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
The City's Traffic Policies for implementation of traffic control devices and evaluation of traffic
calming measures have not been updated in the past 6 years. There are areas that current
policies can be improved to better serve the community and to ensure uniform implementation
and compliance with the established State and Federal standards and guidelines.
The updated policies address new needs such as signing in new developments and provides
technical minimum thresholds for implementation of speed humps and speed tables.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff respectfully requests the Honorable Mayor and City Commission consider the new policies
and provide direction to staff on traffic related issues.
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CITY OF OCOEE
Traffic Calming and Street Closing Policy
Adopted by the City Commission on Zia LI W , 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TRAFFIC CALMING AND STREET CLOSING POLICY
Introduction. 1
Goals and Objectives of the Program 1
What is Traffic Calming 1
Traffic Calming Methods 2-3
Street Closings 3
Administrative Procedures 3-4
Design and Engineering Principles. 4
Process for Reviewing Requests 5
Evaluation Report 6
Exceptions and Authorization 6
INTRODUCTION
This Traffic Calming and Street Closing Policy provides a process for identifying and addressing problems
on local residential streets related to speeding, excessive volumes, and safety. The policy is formulated into
a program with authorization, by the City Commission,to the City Manager or his designee(s)to administer
the specifics and develop procedures for implementation of the policy.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM
Traffic calming may be implemented to achieve a variety of goals. Residents of neighborhoods where these
streets are located are usually seeking to increase their quality of life by creating safer and/or more attractive
streets where non-vehicular uses (walking, bicycling, etc.)gain a greater significance.
The main objectives of traffic calming are to slow motor vehicles to speeds no greater than the legal speed
limit of the roadway, reduce the frequency and severity of accidents, increase the safety for non-motorized
users of the street(s), reduce the need for special police enforcement, and reduce cut-through traffic.
Many factors need to be considered when implementing traffic calming measures. The location where the
traffic calming is needed (entrance, internal intersection, mid-block location) must be evaluated, as well as
the street type (local or local collector), street geometry, adjacent land uses, aesthetic considerations,
community preferences, mass transit needs, and budget.
Street closings are a traffic calming approach that should only be undertaken as a last resort to solving traffic
problems within a neighborhood.
WHAT IS TRAFFIC CALMING?
•
Traffic calming uses physical measures and enforcement methods to encourage driving behavior
appropriate to the environment, usually including attempts to reduce the speed of vehicles and/or induce
drivers to select another route for their travel, which in turn improves conditions for non- motorized street
users.
Traffic calming is generally used on local residential streets or local residential collector streets. Local
residential streets provide direct access to abutting residential properties. Local residential collector streets
have primarily residential property abutting the road, and pass through residentially zoned areas providing
for movement of traffic between local residential streets and the arterial network. These roads balance the
need for individual lot access and through travel. Besides using a local residential collector street to get to a
home located along it, people also use these roads to get from one neighborhood to another and from the
neighborhood to a main road.With very few exceptions,these are the only two classifications of roadways
that are eligible for traffic calming measures since other types of roadways must continue to operate with
higher levels of traffic to maintain a viable city-wide transportation network.
1
TRAFFIC CALMING METHODS
Traffic calming devices generally modify the street design in one or more of the following manners:
1 Narrowing the Pavement(reducing street width)or providing the appearance of narrowing the pavement
Narrowing the street reduces its "design speed"to the point at which most drivers are comfortable. This can be done in
varying degrees ranging from continuous narrowing of the street to spot reductions in width. Roads may be striped
where lanes have a maximum width of nine (9)to eleven (11)feet. The remaining pavement can be striped for bicycle
lanes.
On-street parking on one or both sides effectively narrows the driving lanes. The parking can be staggered to create a
weaving path on the roadway I further informing drivers that caution should be used in the neighborhood.
Another method is to remove existing curb and gutter and rebuild the street with a smaller pavement width. Not only
does this narrow the pavement, but the remaining property can be used to provide more room for wider sidewalks,
landscaping area, or other improvements.
2 Deflecting the Vehicle Path (reducing the driver's sight distance by introducing curvature into the street design)
Horizontal deflectors require drivers to negotiate turns and curves that they would not ordinarily meet. The increased
attention needed to navigate these areas causes drivers to reduce their speed to where they feel more comfortable.
Angled slow points, sometimes call "chicanes", are curbed or other physical barriers are built into an existing straight
path on a roadway. Trees can be planted in these slow points to restrict drivers'vision down the street which in theory
slows them down to where they feel comfortable.
Channelization devices can also be built at intersections to deflect any vehicles moving straight through the
intersection, as well as providing for clear delineation of the path turning vehicles should take. This type of modification
is most appropriate for a three-way intersection, as the turning movements in a four-way intersection are too
complicated to try to deflect all movements simultaneously. "Knockdowns"or"bulbouts" at intersections limit the
pavement width sufficiently to require motorists to alter their path and reduce their speed.With these devices
pedestrian crossings are shorter, and therefore safer. The"roundabout"or"traffic circle" deflects cars out of their
straight-line path as they travel through an intersection.With landscaping included, they also break up the uninterrupted
sight lines and reduce design speed accordingly.
3 Deflecting the Vehicle Profile(with humps and/or textures)
Speed humps or speed tables can be used as a vertical deflector. A speed hump is typically 14 to 22 feet long and two
to four inches high.A speed table is a level elevation
with angular ramps that elevates both the front and rear wheels of a car. Speed humps and tables can be made for
automobiles without affecting an adjacent bicycle lane.
2
4
5.
Textured pavement can also be used and can be both aesthetically pleasing and effective at slowing traffic.
Reroutina Traffic(through regulatory measures)
Some traffic calming devices reduce cut-through traffic. In some cases,this is done by making through movements
impossible. More often, rerouting of through traffic is accomplished by making a trip so inconvenient, that the driver is
discouraged from using the route and selects an alternative street pattern.
Enforcement of Measures Alread:i in Place (stop signs, speed limits, etc. additional signs and patrols
)or adding
Automatic clocking and display devices are a highly. visible means of traffic calming. Traditional enforcement is also an
option. This would involve police officers giving tickets to speeders and other traffic offenders. Additional signing may
also help to inform drivers.
STREET CLOSINGS
Under this approach, City staff works with residents to evaluate the type and severity of the traffic problems.The closing
of a street shall only be considered when legally permissible and clearly necessary to solve a traffic safety or traffic
operations problem. To be considered, a street must first be evaluated under the traffic calming policy. If no practical
solutions can be found utilizing any of the many traffic calming methods,then the City will evaluate the possible closing
of the street. Permanent street closures involve a number of complex issues including but not limited to: various legal
precedents, property rights, traffic operations, traffic safety and emergency vehicle access. The facts and circumstances
of each particular situation shall be considered when developing a recommendation to the City Commission. Since local
residential collectors have a higher through traffic function, the traffic management solutions will differ from those on
local residential streets.
A neighborhood containing a street which is proposed for closing shall have a defined traffic operations or safety
problem that the City Commission determines can not be mitigated by other conventional or traffic calming alternatives
gn.g the street closing conducted on a temporary or test basis results in a successful mitigation of the problem without
creating new or transferring existing traffic operations or safety problems to other local streets.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Requests for traffic calming will be evaluated on a case by case basis, although certain initial studies will be performed
to assess the problem. At any time during the process, City staff shall be authorized to take corrective action should a
traffic safety problem be discovered. In order to make efficient use of City resources, staff will prioritize traffic
management requests.All things
being equal, requests will be evaluated in the order they are received. To the greatest extent possible, policy will be carried out
to support the Traffic Circulation Element of the Ocoee Comprehensive Plan.
Oesian and Enaineerinq Princigles
The following list of principles will be used when designing traffic calming solutions:
1
2
3.
4 .
5 .
Traffic may be rerouted from one local street to another as a result of traffic calming measures. The amount of rerouted traffic
that is acceptable shall be defined on a project-by-project basis.
Emergency access shall be provided which meets Public Safety standards. Police and Fire Departments will review plans to
ensure adequate emergency access and response times.
Traffic calming should encourage and enhance pedestrian, bicycie, and transit access to neighborhood destinations.
Traffic calming devices shall be planned and designed in keeping with sound engineering practices. The City Engineer shall
direct the installation of all traffic control devices as needed to accomplish the objective, in compliance with applicable
standards.
Appropriate traffic studies will be performed prior to implementing traffic calming devices.
Process for Reviewing Requests
A formal application and fee must be submitted to begin the process. The first step for all applications is to perform a traffic
study applicable to the nature of the problem. Studies may be done to measure volume and or speed of cars as well as cut-
through traffic and safety issues. These studies then help establish the magnitude and nature of the problem(s).
As a general rule, the following criteria shall be used to determine if further evaluation is warranted:
•Traffic.Coriditions.. ' Volume(Vehicles.Per Volume(Vehicles Per Average Speed : Percent of Cut-
Day)Local Residential Day)Local Residential (Miles Per • Through-Traffic
Collector Street •Street Hour)
•
Acceptable < 1,800 < 900 < 26 < 7
Marginally Acceptable 1,800 to 2,500 900 - 1,200 26 to 30 7 to 9
Unacceptable > 2,500 > 1,200 > 30 > 9 •
•
4
Accident data will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and take into account the severity of the accidents
and how the rate compares with rates on similar streets in the City.
If traffic conditions meet acceptable standards for all criteria, City staff will inform the applicant(s)that the
data does not warrant further review of the issue. Applicants may reapply after a one year time period to
reassess those traffic conditions if they still feel a problem exists.
At the completion of the initial study phase (no more than 90 days after the original request is made), staff
will meet with the individual or group making the request to discuss the results of the studies and the staff
recommendation based on those studies. If the studies show that further evaluation is warranted, and the
applicants want to continue the process, a petition to the City Commission signed by two-thirds of the people
within the neighborhood(s)designated by staff as being the "impacted area", will be required (one signature
per household). The petition wording must be approved by City staff. The petition should include an
explanation of the problem(s) being studied, potential solutions, procedures to be taken to reach a
conclusion, and potential costs involved to the people in the area.
City'staff may hold a public meeting before the petition is distributed, .to inform residents in the area of the
request to study a potential traffic problem, and to describe possible alternatives and gather additional input
about the traffic problems and related neighborhood concerns. Obtaining signatures on the petition is the
responsibility of the person or group who originally contacted the City. If a petition is routed, the City will
notify by mail, any known nonresident property owners. This step ensures that a majority of residents and
nonresident property owners are aware of the traffic problems being studied and can provide their opinions
on implementing traffic calming measures and whether they are willing to pay for the improvements.
Once the City receives a valid petition (two-thirds majority in favor), staff will meet with the neighborhood to
determine possible alternatives. A public hearing will then be held by the City Commission. The staff report
will outline the process followed, study findings, and recommendations of the neighborhood and staff. If the
request is for a street closure, it must first be scheduled at a meeting of the Planning and Zoning
Commission (not a public hearing)for its consideration and recommendation to the City Commission.
EVALUATION REPORT
All traffic calming measures installed under this program will be evaluated for effectiveness. Six(6)months
after installation is complete, City staff will meet with the neighborhood residents and nonresident property
owners to gather input on the effectiveness of the project. Staff will also conduct any traffic studies deemed
necessary to evaluate the project. A report will then be issued to the City Commission to include findings of
the follow-up studies, whether or not the neighborhood feels the improvements have successfully solved the
traffic management problems, and recommendations for further action.
5
FUNDI—�
It is the general policy of the City that traffic calming devices will be paid for by the neighborhoods
requesting them. If it is the City's opinion that a specific improvement must be installed to address a safety
issue.the City may fund all or a portion of the project. In most cases the City will provide funds to maintain
the improvement once it is in place.
EXCEPTIONS AND AUTHORIZATION
Nothing in this policy or procedures shall be interpreted to restrict or prohibit the City from implementing
measures to improve traffic safety, correct accident causing situations, or mitigate traffic operational
problems within and around residential neighborhoods.
6
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`�,/�/Ocoee
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"CENTER OF GOOD LIVING-PRIDE OF WEST ORANGE"
CITY OF OCOEE
150 N. LAKESHORE DRIVE
OCOEE, FLORIDA 34761-2258
(407) 905-3100
MEMORANDUM
DATE:
June 6, 2002
TO:
Jean Grafton, City Clerk
FROM:
James W. Shira, P .E., City Engineer/Utilities Director
SUBJECT:
New Policy
MAYOR.COMMISSIONERS.SCOTT VANDERGRIFT
COMMISSIONERS
DANNY HOWELL SCOTT ANDERSON RUSTY JOHNSON
NANCY J. PARKER
Crry MANAGER
JIM GLEASON
On June 4, 2002 the Ocoee City Commission approved the attached STOP and NO PARKING sign policy.
Please place a copy of this policy in all of the City Policy Manuals.
JWS/jbw
Attachment
POW
Protect 00O2e's W-ter Resources
In accordance with the MUTCD, a multi-way STOP sign may be warranted at an
intersection where one or more of the following conditions exist:
1)
2)
3)
Where traffic signals are warranted and urgently needed, the multi way stop is an interim
measure that can be installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made
for the signal installation.
An accident problem, as indicated by five or more reported accidents of a type susceptible of
correction by a multiway stop installation in a 12-month period. Such accidents include right-and
left-turn collisions as well as right-angle collisions.
Minimum traffic volumes: a)The total vehicular volume entering the intersection from all
approaches must average at least 500 vehicles per hour for any 8 hours of an average day,and
b)The combined vehicular and pedestrian volume from the minor street or highway must average at
least 200 units per hour for the same 8 hours,with an average delay to minor street traffic of at least
30 seconds per vehicle during the maximum hour,but
c)When the 80-percentile approach speed of the major street traffic exceeds 40 miles per hour,the
minimum vehicular volume warrant to 70 percent of the above requirements.
It is the policy of the City that multi-way STOP signs should not be used for speed control.
If the City Manager finds that a STOP or multi-way STOP sign is warranted,he shall direct the
installation of the sign(s). If the requested sign(s)are not found to meet the MUTCD warrants,the
City Manager will notify the person(s)requesting the sign(s) of that, and advise that the request can
be directed to the City Commission.
If the person(s) requesting the sign(s) wishes to have the request heard by the City
Commission, the City Manager will place the request on an upcoming City Commission
meeting agenda for discussion. Based on that discussion, the City Commission may either
approve or deny the request for the sign(s).
NO PARKING Signs:
The City has established the following areas as NO PARKING areas:
1)
2)
3)
On a sidewalk.
In front of a public or private driveway.
Within an intersection.
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
9)
On a crosswalk.
Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Within 30 feet of any stop sign located at the side of a roadway.
Within 30 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing.
Within 30 feet of the driveway entrance to any fire station and on the side of a street
opposite.
On the roadway side of any vehicle stopped at the edge or curb of a street or on the
roadway end of any vehicle parked at an angle to a curb or street edge.
J 0)At any place where an official sign prohibits parking.
11)At any place that is designated as a handicapped parking place for handicapped
persons,unless and except when said vehicle is duly pennitted for parking therein by virtue
of the fact that there is a handicapped occupant.
12)On both sides of a paved street that is less than 26 feet in width. For the purpose of this
section,the width of the paved street is interpreted to be the entire paved area,to include
ribbon curb or Miami curb,if either exists. The city's Street Department is responsible for
posting the appropriate no-parking signs on one side of the street, as directed by the Chief
of Police,prior to this section being enforced by the city's Police Department. Once
installed,the removal of a no-parking sign by vandals or any other means will not be
grounds to escape citation for illegal parking.
13) On either side of a paved street that is less than 17 feet wide. The city's Street
Department is responsible for posting the appropriate no parking signs on both sides
of such a street prior to enforcement of this section by the Police Department. Once
installed the removal of a no-parking sign will not be grounds to escape citation.
14)In a cul-de-sac that has a radius of less than 30 feet.
15)Within a roadway other than parallel with the edge of the roadway,headed in the
direction of the traffic and with the curbside wheels of the vehicle within 12 inches of the
edge of the roadway, except upon a street which has been marked or a sign erected for
angle parking,where all vehicles shall be parked at the angle to the curb indicated by such
mark or sign.
This STOP and NO PARKING Sign Policy provides a process for identifying and addressing problems on local
residential streets related to speeding,traffic volume and pedestrian safety that are subject to correction through the
installation of STOP signs,multi-way STOP signs and NO PARKING signs.
This STOP and NO PARKING Sign Policy is established by the Ocoee City Commission and the City Manager is
authorized to administer the policy and develop specific procedures for implementation as necessary.
Factors to be considered prior to the installation of STOP signs, multi-way STOP signs and NO PARKING signs are
listed within the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration document entitled Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices and within Florida Statutes Chapter 316 entitled State Uniform Traffic Control.
The City of Ocoee will establish and maintain STOP signs,multi-way STOP signs and NO PARKING signs in
accordance with the Manual on Unifonn Traffic Control Devices and Chapter 316 Florida Statutes.
STOP Signs and Multi-way STOP Signs:
Requests for new STOP signs and multi-way STOP signs must be submitted in writing to the City Manager. The
request must include the specific location of the requested sign(s), and the reasons for the request. Upon receipt of a
request for a STOP sign or multi-way STOP sign, the City Manager will direct staff to investigate the request to
detennine whether the requested sign(s)meet MUTCD warrants at the requested location.
In accordance with the MUTCD, a STOP sign may be warranted at an intersection where one or more of the following
conditions exist:
1)Intersection of a less important road with a main road where application of the nonnal right-of-way rule is unduly
hazardous.
2) Street entering a through highway or street.
3)Unsignalized intersection in a signalized area.
4) Other intersections where a combination of high speed, restricted view— serious accident record indicates
a need for control by the STOP sign.
Prior to the installation of a STOP sign based on the application of these warrants, consideration will be given to less
restrictive measures, such as the YIELD sign where a full STOP is not necessary at all times.
It is the policy of the City that STOP signs should not be used for speed control.
•
tequests for NO PARKING signs must be submitted in writing to the City Manager. The request must include the
;pecific location of the requested sign(s), and the reasons for the request.
Jpon receipt of the request,the City Manager will direct staff to detennine whether the requested location is one
where a NO PARKING sign is the appropriate solution to the problem.
f the City Manager finds that a NO PARKING sign is warranted,he shall direct the installation of the sign(s). If the
•equested sign(s)are determined not to be warranted,the City Manager will notify the person(s)requesting the sign(s)
)f that,and advise that the request can be directed to the City Commission.
:f the person(s)requesting the sign(s)wishes to have the request heard by the City Commission,the City Manager will
)lace the request on an upcoming City Commission meeting agenda for discussion. Based on that discussion,the City
2onimission may either approve. or deny the request for the sign(s).
•
•
DRAFT
CITY OF OCOEE
TRAFFIC POLICIES
City of Ocoee
Public Works Department
301 Maguire Road Extension
Ocoee, FL 34761
Phone: (407) 905-3170
Fax: (407) 905-3176
www.ci.ocoee.fl.us
June 2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTENT
II. DEFINITIONS
III. PROCEDURES
A. Service Request
B. Maintenance Activities
C. Non-Standard & Specialty Signs
D. Request for Traffic Regulation Change
E. Traffic Committee
IV. POLICIES & STANDARDS
A. Prohibited Signs
B. Sign Standards
C. Signing in New Sub-Divisions
D. Signing in Private Sub-Divisions
E. Decorative Signs and Sign Posts
V. TRAFFIC REGULATIONS
A. Traffic Signals
B. Multi-way Stop
C. Speed Limits
D. No parking
E. Truck Restriction
F. Traffic Calming
G. Lane Restrictions
H. Over-size Vehicles
EXHIBITS
Exhibit A: Street Sign Price Schedules
Exhibit B: Fee Schedule
2
I. INTENT
These policies are intended for the uniform application of traffic control devices within the City
of Ocoee, Orange County, Florida. The contents of this document will address the procedures,
the standards, material specifications and workmanship as related to procurement and installation
of traffic control devices.
Traffic control devices as intended here shall include traffic signs, traffic signals, warning
flashers, school flashers, pavement markings, and traffic calming devices. The procedures,
standards, and material specifications shall apply to all publicly maintained rights-of-way and
public and private development.
The City's Public Works Director or Designee shall have the responsibility to maintain, review,
update, and enforce the standards and regulations contained in this document.
II. DEFINITIONS
Traffic Control Device—Any traffic signal, flashing devices, sign, pavement marking; speed
regulation devices intended to regulate the movement of vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
Public Works Director—City official in responsible charge of the Public Works Department.
Designee—A staff member of the City's Public Works Department charged by the Public Works
Director with the direct responsibility of implementing the program.
Traffic Safety Committee—An advisory group of qualified individuals appointed by the City
Manager to review and evaluate traffic issued of significant impact. The Public Works Director
or Designee shall be a permanent member and chairperson of the committee.
Traffic Calming—Traffic measures designed to regulate driver behavior in neighborhoods and
on residential streets.
Specialty Signs—Any sign other than a traffic control sign.
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT)—State agency empowered by the State
legislature to adopt standards and regulate traffic control devices within the State of Florida.
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (M.U.T.C.D.)—The latest edition of the
M.U.T.C.D. published by the Federal Highway Administration and adopted by the FDOT,
governing the uniform application of traffic control devices in the State of Florida.
Warrants—Minimum criteria as required by the M.U.T.C.D. for the installation of traffic
signals, stop signs, warning signs, and pavement markings. Criteria as adopted by the City
Commission for the installation of traffic calming devices are also included under this item.
3
Traffic Laws—The requirements of Chapter 316 Florida Statutes governing the traffic control
devices and City of Ocoee Traffic Ordinances and Regulations.
III. PROCEDURES
A. Service Requests
All requests for new or repair and replacement of traffic control devices shall be directed to the
Public Works customer service at(407) 905-3170. The requests can also be mailed or delivered
to the Department of Public Works, 301 Maguire Road, Ocoee, FL 34761. A web based service
request form can also be used on the City's web site at www.ci.ocoee.fl.us/publicworks. After
hours emergencies may be reported to the Communication Dispatch Center at(407) 905-3100 x
3000.
Routine repair or replace requests for non-emergency traffic control devices (excluding stop and
yield signs, and school signs/flashers) are processed in the order of priority within 48 hours of
the request. Emergency traffic control devices which include STOP sign, YIELD sign, and
SCHOOL signs/flashers will be responded to within 2 hours of the call. Notice of
malfunctioning traffic signals or bulb burnouts can also be directed to the Public Works customer
service at(407) 905-3170 or to Orange County Traffic Engineering at (407) 736-7890.
B. Maintenance Activities
The maintenance activities shall include the routine repair and replacement of the existing traffic
control devices by the City of Ocoee Public Works Department. The Public Works Department
shall maintain an accurate record of all existing signs, record of repairs and/or replacement to be
published on a monthly basis. The Public Works Department shall develop and maintain a
routine sub-division update program in accordance with the life cycle of the material used.
C. Non-Standard and Specialty Signs
Requests for new non-standard and specialty signs shall be approved by the Public Works
Director or Designee prior to fabrication and installation. Compensation for the non-budgeted
specialty signs is required upon delivery.
D. Request for Traffic Regulation Change
All requests for traffic regulation changes shall be submitted in writing to the Public Works
Director. The Public Works Director shall submit the request to the City's Traffic Safety
Committee for review and evaluation. The Traffic Safety Committee shall initiate and conduct a
traffic study(if applicable) to evaluate the conditions and determine the required solution. The
Traffic Safety Committee shall advise the Public Works Director in writing with the outcome
and the required action within 30 days of the request. The Public Works Director shall consider
the recommendation by the Traffic Safety Committee and forward a response in writing to the
original requestor with a decision and potential costs and schedules. The Decision of the Public
Works Director may be appealed to the City Manager and City Commission.
4
E. Traffic Committee
The City of Ocoee Traffic Committee is established to uniformly review and evaluate the
requests for traffic regulation changes based on the City's Traffic Regulations. Based on a
evaluation, they shall make a recommendation to the Public Works Director.
The City Manager appoints the members of the committee from the following Departments:
• Public Works Department
• Engineering Department
• Planning Department
• Police Department
The Public Works Director shall consider the recommendation and make a final determination
and forward a response to the original requestor. The decision of the Public Works Director may
be appealed to the City Manager.
IV. POLICIES AND STANDARDS
A. Prohibited Signs
1. The City of Ocoee does not permit business signs, advertising signs, or any other
non-compliant sign within the public rights-of-way; unless otherwise provided in
the City's Land Development Codes.
2. The City of Ocoee does not fabricate, install or maintain"Children at Play" and
"No Dumping" signs.
3. Unauthorized signs will be removed and stockpiled at the Public Works yard at
301 Maguire Road for a period of 30 days and may be retrieved by the owner
upon presentation of positive identification. The City will dispose of unclaimed
items after 30 days.
B. Standards
1. Traffic Control Si2ns
a) All traffic control signs shall conform to the guidelines provided by the latest approved
edition of the M.U.T.C.D. Non-conforming signs and installations will not be accepted
and shall be removed and replaced at no expense to the City by the project owner.
b) All material and workmanship for the traffic control devices shall be in accordance with
the latest edition of the FDOT Standard Specification for Roadway and Traffic.
c) The signs shall be of high-intensity reflective vinyl sheeting on aluminum surface. The
colors, shapes, border, dimensions, lettering size, installed height and lateral distance
shall conform to the requirements of the latest approved edition of the M.U.T.C.D. and
FDOT standards.
d) All STOP signs shall be minimum 30"x 30"with high intensity reflective sheeting on
aluminum surface. The Public Works Director or Designee the option to require a larger
size or multiple STOP signs if necessary.
5
e) All sign posts shall be 12' and shall be 2 lbs. galvanized U-Channel.
f) All street identification signs shall be 9" sign blades with 6" letters on collectors and
higher classification. 6" sign blades are only acceptable internally to the sub-division
streets. Street identification signs shall be mounted on top of STOP signs where
applicable using 91UF-OL90 Bracket and 9-90 Cross Bracket.
g) All street identification signs shall include the City of Ocoee logo with the appropriate
size for the 6" and 9"blades. The City logo shall be of reflective vinyl material.
h) In new concrete median separators, a 1' x 1' window shall be neatly formed, an
appropriate distance from the nose of the separator for the installation of the signs.
i) In existing concrete medians, a 1' x 1' window shall be neatly saw-cut and the area to be
filled with suitable material. As an alternative, approved surface-mounted sign pedestals
may be used.
j) All school signs shall be "florescent yellow" color for maximum visibility.
2. Pavement Markings:
a) Unless otherwise stated in the document, all pavement markings shall
Conform to the guidelines provided by the latest approved edition of the M.U.T.C.D. and
FDOT standard specifications.
b) Unless otherwise approved by the Public Works Director, all pavement markings shall be
thermoplastic conforming to the latest approved FDOT specifications.
c) Nose of all median separators shall be painted with reflective yellow paint in accordance
with FDOT standards.
d) Contractors shall use an approved method for eradication of the existing pavement
markings from the pavement surface.
e) On collector roads and residential streets with less than 12' effective lane width, the
width of the striping shall be 4". On arterial roadways and collector roads with standard
12' lane widths, the width of the striping shall be 6".
f) All school zone markings shall conform to the latest FDOT approved standards.
3. Traffic Signals:
a) All traffic signals shall conform to the latest FDOT approved standard specifications and
guidelines provided by the M.U.T.C.D.
b) All material and parts shall be on FDOT approved list.
c) All green, yellow, red, and pedestrian signals shall be LED (Light Emitting Diodes).
d) All pulse loops shall be 6' x 6' FDOT type"B" centered in each lane.
e) All presence loops shall be 6' x 40' FDOT type "F" quadruples.
f) Red arrows on the 3-Section protected-only signals are not permitted. A solid red ball is
required instead.
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C. Signing in New Sub-Divisions
The City of Ocoee Public Works Department will install all required traffic control signs for new
subdivisions in accordance with the required standards. The procedure for the installation and
compensation for the signing shall be as follows:
1. The developer shall submit a copy of the final approved sub-division plans to the
Public Works Department for evaluation and planning.
2. The Public Works Department will prepare the signing design and provide a cost
estimate to the developer upon review.
3. The developer must pre-pay the initial costs of the fabrication and installation prior to
issuance of the permit to commence work.
4. The Public Works Department shall install the traffic control signs as soon as the
roadway infrastructure is constructed,prior to construction of any homes.
5. Upon completion of all homes within the development, the Public Works Department
shall inspect the traffic control signs and repair and replace any signs damaged during
the construction activities. Compensation for any repairs and/or replacements shall be
made in full prior to issuance of the final Certificate of Occupancy for the property.
D. Signing in Private Sub-Divisions
Signing in private sub-divisions is the responsibility of the community's homeowners association
(HOA). However, private subdivisions may request updates of the traffic control signs within
private developments. The request must be in writing on the HOA's letterhead and shall be
signed by the president of the HOA.
In response to a formal request, the City shall conduct an inspection of the private sub-division
and prepare and submit a cost estimate in accordance with Exhibit A and time schedule to the
HOA. Upon receipt of the payment, the City shall proceed with the fabrication and installation
of the signs.
E. Decorative Signs and Sign Posts
Use of non-standard and decorative sign material and sign posts within the public rights-of-way
may be permitted through a special use permit approved by the Public Works Director provided
all special conditions are met. Sub-divisions, through their HOA's, can apply for a"Decorative
Sign and Sign Post"permit and pay a nominal non-refundable processing fee. The Public Works
Director may approve the permit upon satisfaction of the criteria and special understanding. The
conditions for approval are as follows:
1. The signs conform to the M.U.T.C.D. and FDOT standards.
2. The design of the structural support for the decorative signs meets and exceeds the
AASHTO requirements as determined by the manufacturer or by a registered
professional engineer in the State of Florida.
3. The HOA agrees to provide all material and labor for the installation.
4. Upon damage, the HOA will provide material and labor for the replacement.
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5. During an emergency, i.e. downed STOP sign, City will only replace the installation
with standard(non-decorative) material.
6. HOA agrees in writing to waive any liabilities incurred by the City of Ocoee.
V. TRAFFIC REGULATIONS
A. Traffic Signals
Installation of traffic signal is contingent upon satisfaction of all of the following criteria:
1. Satisfaction of the minimum M.U.T.C.D. warrants, and
2. Minimum spacing of one-quarter mile with adjacent signals, and
3. The intersection already has or will have left turn lanes in all directions, and
4. Availability of the funds.
A traffic signal warrant study conducted by a professional engineer registered in the State of
Florida is required. The warrant study shall also address the signal spacing and adequacy of turn
lanes at the intersection.
B. Multi-Way Stop
Installation of multi-way stops is contingent upon the following criteria:
1. Satisfaction of the minimum M.U.T.C.D. warrants and
2. Lesser potential solutions have been implemented and have not resulted in an
improvement.
A multi-way warrant study conducted by a professional engineer registered in the State of
Florida is required. The warrant study shall describe the previous improvements and the results
of the implementation.
C. Speed Limits
Changing on an existing speed limits or establishing new speed limits shall be contingent upon
the following criteria:
1. A speed study in accordance with the ITE guidelines to determine the eighty-fifty
percentile speeds, and
2. A crash analysis for the recent past 3-year period, and
3. Physical geometry and clear zone standards
Speed limits on subdivision streets and residential roads shall be set at 25 MPH. Lower speed
limits are only permitted if conditions warrant such an action in accordance with a traffic study.
The speed study shall be conducted by a professional engineer registered in the State of Florida.
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The change in regulation other than 25 mph limit on residential streets shall be approved by the
City Commission.
D. Parking Prohibition
Parking prohibitions may be authorized and implemented under the following criteria:
1. As required by the State Law at locations specified.
2. Parking within the pavement surface or the right-of-way creates a safety hazard as
determined by the City.
3. Parking within the pavement surface or the right-of-way hinders movement of emergency
vehicles as determined by the City.
4. Parking within the pavement surface of the right-of-way results in destruction of public
property as determined by the City.
5. Parking within subdivisions with deed restrictions.
6. Parking on streets within 1-mile radius of high schools.
7. Parking on streets adjacent to elementary or middle schools.
The Public Works Director or Designee is authorized to post parking restrictions with time limits
as appropriate. Public nuisance restrictions may be authorized within sub-divisions if the
following conditions are satisfied:
1. If an HOA exists, a written request on HOA letterhead signed by the president and
providing evidence of a resolution by the HOA Board, specifying the limits of the
restrictions; or
2. If there is no HOA, a petition signed by all of the homeowners on both sides of the street
500' upstream and 500' downstream from the point of restriction.
E. Truck Restrictions
Movement of heavy trucks (other than for local delivery)may be restricted on City streets if:
1. Movement of heavy trucks for other than local deliveries results in destruction of the
infrastructure.
2. Movement of heavy trucks for other than local deliveries results in a safety hazard as
determined by the Public Works Director or designated officer.
3. Nuisance cut-through exists where ample alternative arterial roadways and major
collector roadways are available as determined by the Public Works Director or
Designee.
The truck restriction shall not relocate the problem elsewhere in the transportation system or
cause unsafe conditions at any intersection. Posting of the restriction must include the tonnage
limit and adequate advance warning signs when necessary. All signs must include a"Local
Deliveries Permitted"message.
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F. Traffic Calming
Traffic calming measures are intended to modify driver's behavior to adhere with the safe
operating regulations. They may be considered for residential sub-divisions to combat unsafe
speeding and non-residential cut-through traffic when warranted. Caution must be exercised to
carefully evaluate the reported traffic problems to ensure satisfaction of the minimum warrants
and to ensure implementation of the correct traffic calming scenario. Based on experience,
implementation of physical changes such as street closing, speed humps and tables often result in
relocation of traffic problems to other parallel roadways.
Traffic calming solutions with physical restrictions are only considered for subdivision or local
streets. They will not be considered for roadways with a collector or higher classification
without major review of the impact on the transportation system on local and regional level.
Traffic Calming Solutions
It is recognized that an array of traffic calming solutions exists. An incremental approach that
involves identification of the most effective/least costly solution is necessary to select the
appropriate measures. The solution array may include, but not limited to the following:
• Neighborhood education
• Consistent enforcement
• Additional signing
• Speed trailers
• Permanent speed displays
• Turn restrictions
• Median chokers
• Speed tables and humps
• Street narrowing
• Traffic circles
• Street closures
Traffic Study
A traffic study performed by a registered professional engineer in the State of Florida shall
demonstrate based on the traffic data the need to implement traffic calming measures. The
engineering data to support the conclusions shall include, but not limited to the following:
• directional traffic volume data
• directional speeds data
• classification counts
• crash history
• physical geometry(length, curves, widths, etc.)
• project costs &method of funding
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The study,based on the collected data, shall conclude by recommending the most appropriate
type of traffic calming.
Speed Humps & Speed Tables
Speed humps & speed tables should only be considered only if other less restrictive measures
have been employed and were not effective. In order to consider implementation of speed humps
and speed tables, all of following minimum warrants must be satisfied:
Warrant Threshold
Distance Over 800' in length
Volume Less than 1,600 vpd
Posted Speed 30 mph or less
Speed 30% over posted speed or
10% over 10 mph over limit
vpd=total number of vehicles in a 24 hour period
In considering speed humps and speed tables, it is critical to note the following issues that
generally are resultants of poor planning:
• A significant portion of traffic is diverted elsewhere often relocating the problem
• Consistent opposition from the neighborhood
• May hinder movement of emergency vehicles
In design and location of speed humps and speed tables, it is critical to consider the following:
• Spacing of subsequent humps or tables should be no more than 400' to avoid speeding
between humps or tables
• Humps or tables should not be placed within a horizontal curve
• Adequate measures should be deployed not to obstruct drainage
• Ensure adequate lighting exists
Non-resident Cut-Through
In neighborhoods where non-resident opportunities exists, the minimum criteria is as follows:
20% or more non-resident cut-through in any peak hour
Speed humps and speed tables can be considered for combating non-resident cut-through
provided the volume and speed criteria are satisfied.
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Other Speeding Counter-measures
There are other effective yet less restrictive physical methods available for combating speeding.
They include:
• Median chokers-with or without landscape
• Street narrowing
• Traffic circles
Application Procedure
Procedures to submit a request for evaluation and implementation of traffic calming are as
follows:
1. A written request is submitted. E-mail and fax request are acceptable. If there is an
HOA, the request must be from the HOA Board on their official letterhead. Request must
be submitted to Director of Public Works. The written request must clearly contain the
following:
• Name, address, and telephone number of requester
• Location of the concern
• Type of concern (speeding, cut-through, etc.)
Anonymous requests will not be considered.
2. A preliminary evaluation is conducted by the City to determine the root cause and the
significance of the speeding and non-resident cut-through and review the crash history.
The Public Works Director will forward a recommendation to the original requester.
3. If physical restrictions other than education, signing, enforcement, speed trailers are
determined to be necessary, the neighborhood HOA shall submit the following to the
Director of Public Works within 30 days:
• Concurrence and evidence of approval by the HOA Board
• Commitment for funding
• A non-refundable application fee as listed in Exhibit B
In neighborhoods with no formal HOA, a petition drive will be requested after a
preliminary study has determined speed humps or speed tables are warranted.
4. Upon the completion of the design of the traffic calming devices, funding commitment,
and selection of a qualified contractor, the Public Works Director shall issue a right-of-
way utilization permit for the installation of the traffic calming devices.
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Petition Drive Procedures
It shall be the responsibility of the requester to conduct the petition drive in accordance with the
following criteria:
• 67 % approval from homeowners of dwellings with driveways directly connected to the
affected street.
• 50%plus 1 approval from homeowners on intersecting streets with no other outlets.
• Only one vote per household. If the dwelling is owned by 2 or more persons, they all
must sign the petition and vote the same way. Signature of multiple owners with
opposing views will be disregarded
• The petition shall clearly state the costs of the improvements to the homeowners on the
affected street.
• It is the responsibility of the petitioner to collect all signatures and deliver the petition to
the Public Works Department within 30 days of the request by the Public Works
Director.
Funding
There is no budget established or authorized by the City Commission for traffic calming. Full or
partial funding by HOA or neighborhood may expedite projects. Ultimately, funding is subject
to approval by the City Commission. Other forms of funding such as a MSTU can also be
considered.
Funding for removal of any traffic calming shall be the responsibility of the HOA or the
neighborhood.
Approval
Upon recommendation by the Public Works Director, the City Commission shall approve or
deny the request during their regular sessions.
G. Lane Restrictions and Road Closures
Unless expressly permitted in writing by the Public Works Director, temporary lane closures
and/or restrictions are not permitted during peak periods in the peak direction on the City streets.
The peak period is defined as 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
For emergency operations, a verbal permission must be obtained from the Public Works Director
or in his absence, from next in command.
Non-emergency, temporary, or permanent road closures are not permitted without a right-of-way
utilization permit approved by the Public Works Director and the City Commission. Temporary
closures for emergencies may be permitted upon justification as approved by the Public Works
Director and the City Manager.
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H. Over-sized and Over-weight Vehicles.
Movement of vehicles exceeding the size and weight as specified by the state law is prohibited
on City streets without a permit. A permit application shall be filed at least seven (7) calendar
days, excluding holidays, in advance of the scheduled move with the Public Works Department.
The applicant shall specify all loaded dimensions and scheduled routes on their application.
The applicant shall be responsible for the costs of temporary removal and/or relocation of the
impacted infrastructure, trimming of the trees, police escort, etc. as required. The City will
notify the applicant by phone within 48 hours of application if additional information is needed
or a deposit is required. The Public Works Director or Designee may request an alternative
schedule and/or route to minimize the impact on the flow of the traffic on City streets.
If the move is partly on streets under the jurisdiction of other political sub-division, a copy of an
approved application by all impacted jurisdictions must be forwarded to the City prior to the
authorization by the City.
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Exhibit A- Cost Schedule
Common Traffic Control Signs
Sign MUTCD Size Price Price
Designation (Furnish) (Installed)
Stop R1-1 30" - $80.00
Stop R1-1 36" - $115.00
Stop/Street ID R1-1/D3 30"/ 6" - $120.00
Stop/Street ID R1-1/D3 30"/9" $130.00
4-Way R1-3 12' x 6" - $12.00*
All Way R1-4 18' x 6" - $15.00*
Yield R1-2 30" - $110.00
Yield R1-2 36" - $115.00
Speed Limit R2-1 24"x 30" - $80.00
Speed Limit R2-1 36"x 48" - $110.00
Street Name D3 36"x 6" - $97.00
Street Name D3 42" x 6" - $105.00
Street Name D3 36"x 9" - $109.00
Street Name D3 42"x 9" - $118.00
Over-Head ID D3 24"x 18" - $113.00
Over-head ID D3 30"x 18" - $117.00
No Parking R7 Series 12" x 18" - $98.00
Handicap R7-8 12"x 18" - $98.00
No Parking R8-3a 12"x 12" - $90.00
Keep Right(left) R4-7 or 8 24" x 30" - $105.00
Any Rectangle R4 Series 24"x 30" - $105.00
Do Not Enter R5-1 30"x 30" - $110.00
One-Way R6-1 or 2 36"x 12" - $107.00
Turn Prohibition Symbol R3-1,2,4 24"x 24" - $105.00
Supp.Plaque R3 Series 12"x 6" - $12.00*
Warning Signs(Diamond) W Series 30"x 30" - $105.00
Warning Signs (Diamond) W Series 36" x 36" - $115.00
Warning Signs (Rectangle) W Series 30"x 24" - $105.00
Chevrons W1 18" x 24" - $80.00
Arrows W1 18"x 36" - $100.00
No Outlet&Dead End W14-lp& 2p 18"x 6" - $15.00*
U-Channel 2 lbs. - 12' 13.00 -
Bolt&Nut - - 0.50 -
City Logo - 4" 2.75 -
City Logo - 6" 3.75 -
Cross Bracket - - 5.00 -
T-Bracket - - 5.00 -
*When installed on same post at the same time
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Exhibit B: Schedule of Fees
1. Application for Traffic Calming- $120.00
2. Application for over-size vehicles- $35.00
3. Application for Decorative Sign Posts- $35.00
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