I understand all of the various viewpoints on speed bumps and speed tables (a more generally accepted term).... I studied traffic calming with a gentleman from Australia about 15 to 18 years ago when he was in hired as a traffic consultant to Key Biscayne where I used to live. He has been recognized as the world's leading authority on traffic calming.
If speed tables are installed properly, they perform a wonderful job of traffic calming. Of course other factors would help as well, including proper placement of plant materials to help calm traffic and many other factors as well.
Key Biscayne's results are extraordinarily positive, and more speed tables and other calming elements are being introduced annually. The Fire Rescue Department handles these tables quite well; I fear that most of those opposed to speed tables in general use the Fire Rescue issue as a smoke screen to cloud the whole issue.
Proper installation is critical, then no one should be unhappy. We all will start driving as we should and Fire Rescue will adapt. Look at the dips and bumps that an ambulance or EMT vehicle has to navigate in approaching and leaving many condo communities and private homes - often much more severe than a mild speed table elevation.
- William Brooke
__________________________________________
