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County weighs purchase of radar speed signs amid maintenance and data concerns
Summary
Staff proposed buying radar speed signs ($3,500–$5,000 each) with data‑recording capability for targeted speed studies; concerns included solar performance in shaded areas and vandalism — staff recommended a data‑driven placement policy and recording-capable units only.
Staff presented options for portable and permanent radar speed signs designed to flash drivers’ speeds and record traffic data for analysis. Unit costs were estimated between $3,500 and $5,000; staff said units that record data are preferable because they provide evidence for deploying enforcement or permanent devices. The presenter noted earlier deployments were not permanent and that solar charging and battery life in shaded locations had caused problems; two of the existing county signs could record data, while two could not, so staff proposed purchasing only recording-capable units going forward.
Commissioners and the sheriff’s office discussed working the signs in tandem with enforcement so officers can be placed at times of verified need instead of routinely. Staff emphasized the need to develop a policy that prioritizes sites based on data and public safety concerns before committing to additional permanent installations.
