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Chester council reviews traffic‑calming ordinance that would set petition and engineering process for speed humps
Summary
Council discussed final reading of a traffic‑calming ordinance establishing a petition threshold, engineering review, speed studies and signage requirements for installing speed humps on city streets; officials said costs and funding priorities will determine how many installations can be completed annually.
Chester officials on Oct. 20 reviewed the final reading of Bill No. 4, a traffic‑calming ordinance that would set formal criteria for installing speed humps on city‑owned roadways.
Solicitor Kyle Miller opened the agenda, and Mr. Haman outlined the ordinance’s mechanics: neighbors would need to submit a petition signed by 50% plus one of households on a block; staff would inspect proposed locations for PennDOT guideline compliance (for example, a hump cannot be placed within 150 feet of an intersection and must meet grade requirements); a speed study would confirm violations; and the city engineer would recommend whether council should approve installation. ‘‘If someone was to come…they would then have to go out and get 50% plus 1 of their neighbors to sign a petition,’’ Mr. Haman said.
Council members pressed on costs and how quickly requests could be fulfilled. Mr. Haman said installations typically run in the ‘‘$3,000 to $5,000’’ range per site, with the city covering signage and striping required with humps. He cautioned that many requests could create a lengthy timeline — ‘‘it could be the case that the city engineer would recommend holding off’’ if requests exceed capacity — and that some locations would be ruled ineligible. He added that permanent speed humps differ from temporary parking‑lot bumps: the former are wider and flatter to reduce damage to emergency vehicles.
Councilmembers suggested narrowing eligibility — for example, prioritizing high‑traffic areas near playgrounds and schools — and asked staff to include eligibility and funding guidance in public materials. Mr. Haman said the city will provide information at City Hall and in application materials so residents do not start petitions for locations that cannot meet technical criteria.
The ordinance discussion did not include a recorded vote in the transcript; councilmembers indicated the first year of implementation would establish demand and budget needs.
