The City Council of Palm Coast is taking significant steps to enhance neighborhood safety with the introduction of a comprehensive traffic calming plan. During a recent workshop on May 13, 2025, city officials discussed the results of a pilot study aimed at reducing speeding on residential roads, a long-standing priority for the council.

Project Manager Vaneesh Crawford presented the findings from a speed limit study conducted in June 2024, which revealed that many residential roads were not suitable for lowering the speed limit from 30 to 25 mph due to high traffic speeds. In response, the council directed staff to develop a traffic calming plan that includes various strategies to manage and reduce vehicle speeds.

The pilot program tested three different traffic calming treatments: speed cushions, chicanes, and lane narrowing. The results were promising, particularly for speed cushions, which effectively reduced speeds from an average of 36 mph to around 31 mph on Florida Park Drive. While chicanes showed some effectiveness, the data indicated that their impact could be enhanced with additional installations.

Emmanuel Rodriguez, the consultant from Kimley Horn, emphasized the importance of public engagement in the planning process, noting that feedback from residents played a crucial role in shaping the traffic calming strategies. The council is now considering the next steps for citywide implementation of the plan, which aims to create safer streets for all residents.

As Palm Coast moves forward with this initiative, the focus remains on ensuring that neighborhoods are safe and accessible, reflecting the city's commitment to community well-being. The anticipated outcomes of the traffic calming plan could lead to a significant reduction in speeding and improved safety for pedestrians and drivers alike.