September 2024
Posted: 9/20/2024 3:01:47 PM
Jersey City recently concluded a study exploring how and where traffic calming measures can be implemented to help meet its Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths by 2026.
Funded under the NJTPA’s Subregional Studies Program, the Jersey City Traffic Calming Tool Kit study explored measures such as curb extensions, bike lanes, speed humps and raised intersections that can slow down traffic, discourage dangerous or aggressive driving and improve safety for all travelers.
The study developed a methodology for prioritizing locations for traffic calming, including targeting areas that have lagged in past public investment. Concept designs were developed for 12 high-priority locations. The recommendations are detailed in a final report and accompanying Tool Kit describing the traffic calming treatments and how they can be applied on various kinds of streets and intersections.
Public input was sought throughout the study including through public meetings, two demonstration projects and stakeholder Interviews. The project website included a survey and interactive map which received over 2,000 responses. Top concerns were streets that are challenging to cross followed by aggressive driving, unsafe vehicle speeds, and stressful biking.
One of the two demonstration projects for the study was on North Street in front of Washington Park. The short-term project used paint and plastic delineators to temporarily remove parking, install curb extensions and realign a bike lane. City staff used the demonstration to show the public what potential improvements could look like, gather input and answer questions.
The study found most people to be positive about traffic calming measures. However, those who self-identified as drivers were much less supportive. The study said removal of parking continues to be a contentious subject in implementing the measures. Traffic Calming projects can also include other street upgrades such as improved lighting, greenery, and public art.
The Tool Kit is intended to replace Jersey City’s prior guidance in the Circulation Element of the 2011 Master Plan. It aligns with the City’s Vision Zero Action Plan, which was adopted in 2019. The study final report, toolkit and appendices are here.
Posted: 9/4/2024 12:06:45 PM
Public art installations, community vision plans, visitors' guides, virtual walking tours, and engagement plans; these are just a few examples of successful past projects completed through the Vibrant Places Program. The North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority (NJTPA) is now accepting new applications! This program provides technical support for a variety of creative placemaking efforts that enable future place-based investments in step with other local economic development initiatives.
Eligible applicants range from municipal and county governments to non-profit, community-based, or non-governmental organizations in the 13-county NJTPA region. Special consideration is given to collaborations between municipalities, counties, and non-governmental organizations.
Vibrant Places projects may be chosen to receive technical assistance services in the form of staff time from The Voorhees Transportation Center (VTC) at Rutgers University and other subject-matter experts. Projects should be manageable in scale since they must be completed within three to five months. All projects must conclude by June 1, 2025.
For additional information, including instructions on submitting a Letter of Interest and program project examples/ideas, visit the Vibrant Places Program page.
The application deadline is September 30, 2024. Projects are anticipated to begin in late 2024.
For more information, please contact Miriam Salerno at [email protected].