Signage Request Protocol

Protocols for dealing with the ever-increasing number of concerns being raised about speeding vehicles, and requests for traffic control devices are recommended by the Sartell Chief of Police and the City Engineer. The Sartell City Council has adopted the following protocols.

These protocols were developed to ensure that complaints are properly routed, that they are dealt with in a consistent manner that embodies the wishes of the City Council. These protocols have also been developed to allow for a more orderly resolution to these complaints and an overall reduction in staff time by eliminating repetition and ineffective use of resources. These protocols have been laid out in a Flow-Chart format (attached) to help ensure that the proper process is followed in each case.

At the heart of the protocols relative to speed concerns is the "Statistical Level of Compliance", or SLC. The Sartell City Council has established an SLC of 85% for all roadways within the City of Sartell . The SLC is determined by examining the speed limit for that area and taking into account a margin of error. If 85% of the vehicles that travel within a particular area are determined to be traveling at a speed that is contained within the SLC, no additional specific traffic intervention techniques are warranted. If less than 85% of the vehicles are in compliance, additional action will be taken in the form of education, enforcement, and/or engineering.

How is this determined? The police department will use various methods to conduct traffic surveys in areas of concern. Surveys will be conducted on multiple occasions, and during the peak complaint times, to try to make an accurate assessment of the problem in any given area. Once the surveys are completed, the information will be sent to the requesting party. Speed surveys requiring tube placement on roadways will be restricted during winter months when snow plowing may be required.

What about Signs & Signals? There are strict standards and guidelines that govern when signs and/or signals can be installed or changed. If you would like to have an area considered for signage or a change in existing signs, you can click on the Request a Sign Change here and you can send us your request.  Once a request has been made for a sign or a sign change, the area in question will be studied to determine what changes, if any, are warranted.

What can I do to get a traffic sign installed?

To get a traffic sign installed, a specific engineering criteria evaluation must be performed. Traffic signs and pavement markings are very specifically detailed as to their installation and regulations as identified in the MUTCD Manual (Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices). Details such as the number of cars on the intersecting streets traveling through an intersection, pedestrians crossing, delays to all vehicles, and the history of accidents must all be considered. Once concerns are recognized, the traffic conditions are reviewed through an engineering analysis. If warrants are met, consideration is given to install a traffic sign. Residents can be encouraged to submit requests for installation of traffic signs in the form of a petition detailing the proposal and indicating support of potentially affected adjacent residents.

Why can't stop signs be placed on more residential streets to slow down speeding drivers?

Studies show that drivers can easily distinguish stop signs that are not necessary to provide traffic control at intersections. If a stop sign is placed as a speed control device, drivers tend to be less observant when approaching it and often reduce their speed, but don't stop. In these instances, stop signs may create more of a traffic hazard than they prevent since pedestrians and other drivers expect all cars to stop. It has also been shown through studies that motorists tend to increase their speeds after stopping at a "speed control" stop sign to make up for lost time or will increase speeds through other less direct residential areas to avoid improper stop signs. Essentially, stop signs placed inappropriately can create more safety problems than they solve. Petitions are required for stop sign requests and all requested stop signs are considered only after a careful traffic engineering study.

Can I get a "Children at Play" traffic sign on my street?

A city must place significant importance on the use of all of the street signs within the city. The use of "Children at Play" signs should be limited to areas directly adjacent to schools, parks and playgrounds, where the number of children is typically greatest. It is important that drivers understand they are driving next to a "special" area with the likelihood of children being present. The use of these signs in other areas will lessen the significance of the signs and give a false sense of security to children.

What can be done to address excessive vehicle speeds in residential areas?

Residents are encouraged to contact the Police Department with concerns about excessive vehicle speeds on any city roadways. Sometimes other methods are used to control speeds including educational programs, pavement markings, and many cities are currently exploring "traffic calming" approaches under very specific conditions.

Signage Request Protocol Flow Chart

Guide to Pedestrian Crossings, Traffic Signals, Signing and Speed Limits