Speed Control

Speed limits should be 25 mph in both directions within the ECF area. Roadways through ECFs should not have higher posted speed limits, since vehicles must stop at the ID Check area, and may encounter queuing. Geometry designed for slower speeds reduces the required response zone. Some techniques to encourage motorists to travel at slower speeds are shown below.

Category	Application Restrictions	Installation Requirements	Benefits	Graphics	Other Issues
Roadway Curvature	Not suitable on roadways with an AADT above 10,000 Not suitable on roadways less than 20 feet wide	Provide transitions into and out of lane narrowing Maintain at least a 10 feet lane	Minor speed reduction” “Wider shoulders Additional separation from bike lanes/sidewalks		Minimal speed reduction without physical constraints (raised median, curbing, flexible delineator posts, etc) Maintenance” “Potential reduction in level of service
Ruble Strips - Milled Style	Consider use when housing is not adjacent to the ECF Place far enough in advance so the sound created does not interfere with the guard’s ability to communicate Surface apply rumble strips are not approved; however, embedded rumble strips may be allowed	Longitudinal width of 7 inches (180 millimeters) Transverse width of 16 inches (400 millimeters) Depth of 0.5 inches (12) millimeters	Reduces speeds and makes the driver aware of upcoming roadway features In a shoulder application, the PA Turnpike experienced a 70% decrease in run-off-road crashes		Noise Snow removal Bicycles
Ruble Strips - Rolled or Formed Style		Longitudinal width of 1.5 inches (38 millimeters) Spaced 8 inches (200 millimeters) apart Depth of 1.25 inches (32 millimeters)
Speed Humps - Watts Profile Style	Recommended only for local streets having an ADT of less than 3,500 vehicles and a posted speed limit of 30 mph (48kph) or less UFC approved for Installation at ECFs	Longitudinal width of 12 feet (3.6 meters) Height of 3-4 inches (75-100 millimeters)	6.5-8.0 mph (10.5 -12.9 km/h) speed reduction		Emergency vehicle response times Drainage Bicycles Proximity to intersections Grade Curves
Speed Humps - Seminole Style	Appropriate for streets with an ADT of up to 6,500 vehicles UFC approved for installation at ECFs	Longitudinal width of 22 feet (6.7 meters) Height of 3-4 inches (75-100 millimeters)	6.5-8.0 mph (10.5 -12.9 km/h) speed reduction
Textured Pavements	Not suitable on roadways with speed limits of 45 mph or greater	Natural colors that do not conflict with the MUTCD should be used Brick, cobblestone, stamped pavement are styles	Minor speed reduction Improved aesthetics May create a minor rumble effect depending on style		Noise depending on style Textured style may impact those in wheelchairs, strollers, etc.
Speed Warning Systems	Locate outside clear zone	Must be MUTCD compliantThe speed warning system should display “YOUR SPEED XX, SAFE SPEED XX” or “YOUR SPEED XX, SPEED LIMIT XX”	Speed reduction In Colorado, this system was installed and average speeds were reduced from 66 mph (106 kph) to 45 mph (72 kph)		Maintenance
Roadway Narrowing	Not suitable on roadways with an AADT above 10,000 Not suitable on roadways less than 20 feet wide	Provide transitions into and out of lane narrowing Maintain at least a 10 feet lane	Minor speed reduction” “Wider shoulders Additional separation from bike lanes/sidewalks		Minimal speed reduction without physical constraints (raised median, curbing, flexible delineator posts, etc) Maintenance” “Potential reduction in level of service
Flashing Warning Devices	Locate outside clear zone	Must be MUTCD compliant	Can increase awareness and recognition of ECF features thus encouraging lower speeds		Maintenance
Advanced Speed Detection and Signing - Radar	None	Advance speed detection monitors speed of approaching vehicles and notifies guards It can be used to detect threats but can also be used to proactively encourage speed reduction	Guards can warn motorists of speed making enforcement more proactive		Privacy concerns Maintenance Operations
Advanced Speed Detection and Signing - Photo	State legislation allowing use	Advance speed detection monitors speed of approaching vehicles and notifies guards It can be used to detect threats but can also be used to proactively encourage speed reduction	Guards can warn motorists of speed making enforcement more proactive Can track reoccurring offenders		Privacy concerns Maintenance Operations