Tool Box
Neighborhood Traffic Management Program

CHICANE

Chicanes are curb extensions that alternate from one side of the street to the other, forming S-shaped curves. Chicanes can also be created by alternating on-street parking between one side of the road and the other. Each parking bay can be created either by restriping the roadway or by installing raised center islands at each end, creating a protected parking area. Chicanes have limited effectiveness in reducing traffic speeds and volumes as compared to other devices. Little data has been collected to predict the reduction in speed, traffic volumes, or collisions and use of this device may not result in significant decreases. Resources permitting, before and after data can be collected by DOT staff to determine the effectiveness of chicanes.

Advantages

• Discourages high speeds by forcing horizontal deflection
• Easily negotiable by emergency vehicles and buses

Disadvantages

• Must be designed carefully to discourage drivers from deviating out of the appropriate lane
• Curb realignment and landscaping can be costly, especially if there are drainage issues
• Loss of on-street parking

For additional information please contact:

Tracy Whitley
Project Engineer
Sacramento County Department of Transportation
whitleyt@SacCounty.net