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1. How does a traffic signal work?

Traffic signals work by assigning the right-of-way to each movement at an intersection using a combination of programmed timing parameters, input from vehicle presence sensors, and operational data from other nearby traffic signals. During peak periods, the traffic signals on arterial roadways operate in a coordinated (or synchronized) mode to move large groups of vehicles through the system together with fewer stops and, therefore, less delay.

2. Who do I call if the signal isn't working properly?

To report a traffic signal malfunction, use the Report It page or all 512-401-5550. To report an urgent signal-related outage or emergency situation outside of regular business hours, please contact the on-call traffic signal technician at 512-401-5553.

3. How are speed limits determined (or changed)?

Residential speed limits are set at 30 miles per hour by State Law (Texas Traffic Laws Section 545.352b(1)). Speed limits for other streets (collectors, arterials and freeways) are often set higher after a formal engineering evaluation. The roadway should not have a posted speed limit that is too fast for its geometric design, or its adjacent land uses. For example, a major arterial will have a lower speed limit through an urbanized area than in rural locations. Similarly, a roadway with several sharp curves will not allow for higher speeds of travel, regardless of adjacent land uses.

4. What is traffic calming?

Traffic calming is a term used to describe primarily physical measures that influence driver behavior on roadways. The application of traffic calming devices is most common on neighborhood or residential roads. The most popular measures are vertical and horizontal devices that create discomfort for motorists who drive aggressively.

5. What can be done about speeding in my neighborhood?

The basic 30-miles-per-hour residential speed limit provides effective control for the majority of motorists traveling in residential neighborhoods. Occasional speed limit violations do occur and are nearly impossible to stop. If you experience a chronic speeding problem in your neighborhood, the Cedar Park Police Department's Special Operations Motor Unit can target a specific area for increased enforcement. To report a chronic speeding problem, contact the Special Operations Division at 512-259-3600.

6. Does the City of Cedar Park have a traffic calming program?

The City of Cedar Park does not have a traditional "traffic calming program" or a speed hump installation policy. Instead, the City has a Residential Traffic Management Program (RTMP) to address complaints about residential traffic within the city limits. The RTMP provides a systematic method of identifying and addressing documented abuses of residential roadways (i.e. excessive speeds and aggressive driving). The RTMP offers several options to address documented concerns, up to and including some traffic calming measures (i.e. physical devices). However, the RTMP process is deliberate and some solutions require community involvement because they can result in the loss of parking, impaired emergency access or the redirection of local traffic onto other roadways. 

Engineering Department staff can meet with neighborhood representatives to develop a thorough list of concerns and possible solutions.

7. How do the pedestrian signals (walk/don't walk) work?

The push button directs the signal controller to display the "Walk" indication during the next traffic cycle (it is not instantaneous). The "Walk" display should be interpreted as instruction to start crossing the street. Once the pedestrian signal displays the flashing "Don't Walk," do not depart from the curb. During the flashing "Don't Walk" phase, enough time is provided for pedestrians to finish crossing the street. However, if walkers leave the curb and begin crossing during the flashing "Don't Walk," there may not be enough time to complete crossing before the signal changes. Another interpretation of the flashing "Don't Walk" indication is don't start crossing.

8. How do I request a Stop Sign, traffic signal or Speed Limit Sign for an intersection?

Contact the Engineering Transportation Department with your request and provide as much detail as possible. The Texas Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (commonly referred to as the TxMUTCD) regulates the placement of all traffic control devices, such as Stop Signs and traffic signals. It may help to note that Stop Signs are not installed to control speeds.

Within the TxMUTCD are procedures set forth in detail on to how various signs, striping and roadway pavement markings are to be placed. All requests for additional (or modified) traffic controls will be carefully reviewed according to the TxMUTCD. If you wish more information, please contact the Engineering Department at 512-401-5000 or via email.

9. Why doesn't the city of cedar park install "Children at Play" signs?

In the past, some agencies have posted "Children at Play" signs in residential areas; however, no evidence documents their success in reducing accidents or operating speeds. Children should not be encouraged to play within the roadway. The sign has long been rejected since it is a direct and open suggestion of unsafe activity and behavior. Today, Texas and federal standards prohibit the use of "Children at Play" signs. Specific warning signs for schools, playgrounds, parks and other recreational facilities are available for use.

10. I have noticed certain signs with curve symbols and a lower speed limit posted directly below the sign. How is this speed limit established?

The speed limit posted under any warning sign is called an "advisory" speed limit. It informs motorists of the recommended safe speed for the design of the roadway. The appropriate speed is determined through the measurement of centrifugal forces (as exerted upon the driver) when driving through the curve at various speeds. Using this information, the recommended maximum speed can be determined and posted accordingly.

11. I see cameras at certain intersections. What do they do? Does the City of Cedar Park use photo-radar or other automatic enforcement techniques?

Photo-radar is a method used to enforce speed limits. Photos are taken of speeders and notices of violation are mailed to the vehicles' registered owners. Citations are sometimes issued based upon the evidence of the photograph. At this time, there are no active automated speed enforcement systems in the State of Texas. The cameras at several intersections in Cedar Park are used to operate the traffic signals. Instead of magnetic induction loops placed in the pavement, these intersections use video cameras for detection of approaching vehicles. The cameras have no law enforcement application.

12. How can I get more information about traffic volumes and speeds on my street?

The Engineering Transportation Department maintains a database of traffic volumes and speeds for selected streets in the City of Cedar Park. For a specific street, please contact us at 512-401-5000 or via email and request the most recent information. A summary sheet of the major roadways within the City of Cedar Park is placed on the Traffic and Transportation page.

13. Who can I call if I cannot see at an intersection because of trees, plants, privacy fences, etc.?

Contact the Engineering and Transportation Department with your concerns. The City of Cedar Park has ordinances addressing landscaping and vegetation if it impairs the minimum lines at intersections. Once the location has been identified, city crews and/or private landowners will remove the obstruction.

14. What is a TIA (Traffic Impact Analysis) and why is one required? What type of developments require a TIA?

A Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) study is a formal engineering evaluation of the likely consequences of a development with respect to transportation issues. For example, if a proposed commercial shopping district is expected to increase the number of vehicles at a nearby intersection, "traffic impact" is the term to describe the result. The level and severity of this "traffic impact" is predicted by engineering review and analysis. At the conclusion of the TIA study, suggestions for physical and operational improvements are made. In addition, a determination of the appropriate financial burden to be borne by the developer is made.

According to the City of Cedar Park Land Development Code, any development that generates more than 2,000 daily trips will require the submittal of a TIA report. The number of estimated daily trips is calculated using industry reference texts, namely the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation Tables, 6th Edition. If you would like more information about the purposes and/or structure of a TIA, please contact the Engineering and Transportation Department at 512-401-5000.

15. How does the City of Cedar Park determine where new roads go?

The City of Cedar Park in combination with private consultants has determined the needs and operational deficiencies of the roadway network. The resulting product is a transportation roadway network model and it is a useful tool by which new roads and roadway improvements can be planned and located. Where the roadway network does not provide adequate accessibility and/or capacity, the City of Cedar Park, in cooperation with land owners, private developers and outside agencies (TxDOT, Williamson County, etc.) can opt to construct or improve new roadways to meet the travel needs of the community. Often the location and connections to new roadways are in response to existing (or proposed) land uses. The City of Cedar Park adopted two roadway plans in April of 2002, one for collector streets and another for arterial streets. Both plans, as well as more information about roadway classifications and other transportation issues, can be found in the City of Cedar Park Transportation Master Plan (TMP). A digital copy of the TMP is available on the Traffic and Transportation page. Hard copies are available for use at City Hall and the City Library.

For more information please contact the Engineering and Transportation Department at 512-401-5000.