Traffic calming refers to the use of street design strategies and physical measures that slow vehicle speeds and make roads safer for everyone. It is most often applied in residential streets, school zones, and high pedestrian areas, where the interaction between vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians is at its highest. Unlike speed enforcement, which relies on fines and policing, traffic calming is a passive, built-in solution that is always present and effective.

The objective of traffic calming is to reduce speeding and improve safety in zones where lower vehicle speeds are critical. A change in surface, colour, texture, or height immediately signals to drivers that they are entering a space where caution is required. Whether approaching a junction, a shared zone, or a residential street, treatments such as StreetPrint or DuraTherm pavements create a strong visual and physical cue for drivers to slow down. This shift in perception is what makes traffic calming such a powerful safety tool.

Common traffic calming measures include thresholds at the entrances of residential streets, raised pedestrian crossings that make people more visible and vehicles slower, and surface treatments that combine function with design. With products like StreetPrint and DuraTherm, roads can be transformed into safer, more intuitive environments. These solutions are not only durable but also attractive, enhancing the character of a community while serving a critical safety purpose.

The importance of traffic calming cannot be overstated. Studies consistently show that lower vehicle speeds significantly reduce the severity of accidents and save lives. Beyond safety, calmer streets contribute to quieter neighbourhoods, encourage walking and cycling, and foster stronger connections between people and their communities. A street designed with traffic calming in mind is safer, more liveable, and more welcoming.

StreetStrong are already preparing for these advancements by offering innovative products that blend traditional road safety with forward-thinking design. Our goal is to stay ahead of the curve and help local governments and developers build the roads of tomorrow safer, smarter, and more sustainable.

If you’d like more information, contact us now.