Evaluation of the Performance of Some Traffic Calming Measures Implemented on the Streets of Lattakia City

Abstract

With the rapid increase in the number of vehicles in our country, roads have become visually unattractive, noisy, and unsafe. Therefore, controlling traffic speed and volume has become essential in some sections of the road. Traffic calming measures are one of the best ways to regulate traffic on roads within cities. They are a combination of physical, behavioral, and psychological strategies that work to reduce the negative effects of cars use and change driver behavior. Traffic calming measures and related strategies aim to maintain flow and cars moves across the road network while directing traffic along optimal paths at safe speeds for all network users. This is achieved by reducing vehicle speeds and traffic volumes on roads classified as local streets within residential areas, and making facilities safer and more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. This study examined traffic calming measures implemented in 12 areas within Lattakia city, including crowded streets, areas near schools, and traffic intersections. The measures were evaluated based on their compliance with international standards. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of traffic calming measures in reducing vehicle speeds. Furthermore, there was a lack of regular maintenance and a shortage of traffic signs indicating their presence. Therefore, it was necessary to highlight these issues in order to take urgent measures to address and improve them.