Installation of Solar-Powered Dynamic Speed Calming Signs

The Highway Department recently completed installation of two new permanent "Dynamic Speed Feedback and School Zone Speed Limit Sign Assemblies" on Kings Highway, adjacent to the entrance to the Westhampton Elementary School.

The signs, provided through a grant administered by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation ("MassDOT"), are solar powered, and intended to reduce speeds in the area near the school. 

The word "Dynamic" in the description refers to the ability of the town to program the sign to adjust the speed limit based on time of day.  In our case, the signs are programmed to automatically alert drivers to the change in speed limit (from 30 to 20 miles per hour) coincident with the arrival and departure times of students; additionally, it provides visual feedback based on a vehicle's measured speed. 

No cameras have been installed; so no data specific to any given vehicle will be collected; however, all vehicle speeds will be collected, and further analyzed by the Town and Mass DOT. 

Many thanks to the Westhampton Highway Department crew that received the parts, assembled the components, configured and programmed the sign for Westhampton's school hours, and completed installation.

Image:Superintendent Bill Jablonski operates the loader / crane, as his crew handles preparations to install a speed-monitor sign on King's Highway.

Michael Demary and Austin Norris check the bolts that will hold the sign pole to the concrete base.

Foreman Scott Tirrell mans the cable hoisting the sign into place, while Demary and Norris guide the post onto its base.

"Almost there..."

Demary secures the post to the concrete base, while Norris checks for plumb.

The new speed sign is in place and operating.  Due to camera frame rates, the display appears garbled, but it is accurately measuring and displaying the speed of a passing vehicle (20 MPH).  Please drive safely!