HomeMy WebLinkAboutI - 12 Speed Limit Reduction Request McLean RoadIOppNEWYORKDepartment of
E OFORTUNITY_ Transportation
August 9, 2022
Ms. Kristin Rocco-Petrella
Town Clerk, Town of Cortlandville
3577 Terrace Road
Cortland, NY 13045
Dear Ms. Rocco-Petrella:
KATHY HOCHUL
Governor
MARIE THERESE DOMINGUEZ
Commissioner
DAVID P. SMITH, P.E.
Regional Director
RE: LOWERED SPEED LIMIT
MCLEAN RD, CORTLANDVILLE
This is in further response to your request to lower the speed limit on McLean Road from 40
mph to 30 mph. Our safety staff has completed their study.
NYSDOT professionals determined that lowering the speed limit would not be appropriate at
this time. Engineers reviewed the crash history at this location, documented field conditions and
performed multiple test drive at various speeds along this route. During these test drives the
engineers evaluated the reactions of other motorists on the road as well as documented if they
were able to maintain that speed based on the geometry of the road, development density, and
pedestrian activity. They determined that the appropriate speed is the posted speed limit of 40
mph, which would be considered the prevailing free flow speed, at which the majority of the
drivers are driving. Drivers are influenced more by the appearance of the highway and
prevailing traffic speeds, rather than a posted speed limit. Setting the speed limit at the
prevailing free flow speed decreases conflicts, minimizes crashes and makes it easier for
vehicles and pedestrians to judge the speed of approaching vehicles.
Your interest in this matter is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions, please contact
me at (315) 428-4380.
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Ln111 31 2022
CORTLANDVILLE
TOWN CLERK'S OFFICE
Very truly yours,
Scott R. Bates, P. E., PTOE
Regional Traffic Engineer
50 Wolf Road, Albany, NY 12232 1 www.dot.ny.gov