By Dave Fidlin
Correspondent
A resident’s concerns of perceived excessive speed along a residential street prompted a recent discussion about so-called traffic calming efforts in Whitewater.
At a Common Council meeting March 17, City Manager Cameron Clapper outlined what the city has done to address speeding-related concerns along portions of North Franklin Street.
“Often, the road is used as a vehicle route to Starin Park and (University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s campus) access via Starin Road,” Clapper said, pointing to one possible reason behind the concerns raised.
Clapper said local municipal police have been responsive when speeding-related concerns have been raised. He suggested the same overtures would be taken in an effort to alleviate concerns along North Franklin Street.
“The police department’s normal or typical response is to deploy a speed board to assess the speed of vehicles in the area, or to station a squad car in the area to enforce the speed limit for a set period of days and times,” Clapper said.
Historically, Clapper said the presence of a squad car has reduced average speeds — at lease for a limited period of time.
“On a narrow residential street, such as North Franklin Street, deploying a squad car in a residential driveway would be even more effective,” Clapper added.
In addition to police presence, Clapper said there are other more permanent, albeit potentially costly, efforts that could be taken, including installing speed bumps or similar infrastructure that would require a motorist to slow down.
Council member Brienne Diebolt-Brown, who represents the aldermanic district within North Franklin Street, said she has met with homeowner association groups in a further attempt to seek out a solution.
Diebolt-Brown said plans are in motion to place “slow down” signs in the area.
