Leesburg traffic commission backs RRFBs and new driver-feedback sign after reviewing speed data

The Leesburg Residential Traffic Commission agreed on Monday to pursue purchases of pedestrian safety hardware after staff presented traffic volumes and speed data collected by mobile “smart trailers.” The commission directed staff to obtain formal cost and purchase orders for multiple rectangular rapid flashing beacons and a colored driver-feedback sign to be considered for approval at the next meeting.

The decision follows a staff presentation of site-specific data showing average speeds above posted limits at several locations and isolated high-end speed readings. “The average speed was 28.93 miles per hour in a 25 mile an hour zone,” staff reported for a sample at 741 Miller Drive, and police staff noted a maximum recorded speed of “79 miles per hour” during off-hours. Those readings prompted commissioners to prioritize physical pedestrian hardware and targeted enforcement in high-volume corridors.

Why it matters: RRFBs and driver-feedback signs are intended to increase driver awareness at crosswalks and slow traffic at problem locations. Commission members said the hardware, combined with selective enforcement and rotating sign placement, is a practical next step after months of data collection.

What was decided: The commission was told approximately $34,500 is available in the traffic-commission budget. Staff reported RRFB equipment and installation cost estimates near $8,500 per crossing (two signs per location) and an upgraded colored driver-feedback sign estimated at roughly $12,000. Commissioners agreed in principle to buy RRFBs for two to four sites, to order one colored feedback sign for trial use, and to return with final purchase orders and installation details at the February meeting.

Police and staff cautioned the commission that enforcement resources are limited. “We have four traffic-unit officers,” Justin Schumer, who identified himself as the traffic-unit officer assigned to Leesburg, said, adding that selective enforcement lists will be used to concentrate officer contact hours where crashes and speeding are most frequent. Staff also stressed that RRFB installations sometimes require median mounting and additional site work, which alters per-location cost.

Next steps: Staff will provide itemized cost estimates and recommended sites for RRFB installation and the colored driver-feedback sign. The commission asked staff to return with formal purchase orders and a recommended deployment plan in February so commissioners can take a formal procurement vote.