Traffic Control

Traffic Control Requests

Traffic control requests are considered monthly by the inter-departmental Traffic Safety Committee. The Traffic Safety Committee uses the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MMUTCD), along with other studies and manual, for guidance on installation of traffic control devices. Please review the common requests listed below and then submit your request. Contact information is required so that staff can obtain follow-up information. Since Golden Valley receives many requests each year for all kinds of traffic control measures, the City cannot always investigate each request as quickly as it would like. The City will respond after carefully evaluating your request. Data collection and evaluation of the request usually takes about one to two months prior to consideration by the TCC. Once a decision is made, installation takes about one month. Requests approved during the winter may need to wait until spring for installation. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Common Requests

Speeding: Public Works receives many calls and emails indicating frequent speeding throughout the city. Perceived speeds are a combination of vehicle size, noise, and a person’s relative position to a vehicle, which can lead to perceptions that vehicle speed is faster than it actually is (see this video developed by the City of Crystal, MN). Most speed studies result in additional coordination with the Public Safety department to enforce infrequent violations of the speed limit. If the speed study indicates a significant number of speed limit violations, the Traffic Control Committee will consider recommending temporary infrastructure changes to the City Manager for approval. The City will not install stop signs to address speed concerns (see Stop Signs section below).

Speed Limits: Unless signed otherwise, the speed limit on streets in Golden Valley is 30 MPH. Requests for speed limit reductions on individual streets will not be considered.

Speed Bumps: While speed bumps can be effective in lowering vehicle speeds under certain conditions, the city does not install temporary or permanent speed bumps due to negative impacts for emergency vehicles, snow removal, and long term maintenance.

Stop Signs: Stop signs are frequently requested to either deter speeding or deter “cut through” traffic in neighborhoods. National research does not indicate that stop signs lower vehicle speeds or change traffic volumes at intersections where an all-way stop is installed. Stop sign requests will be considered based on reported crash history, total vehicle volumes, turning volumes, pedestrian and bicyclist crossings, and any other relevant factors at specific intersections. 

Crosswalks: Marked crosswalks are considered based on the context of a particular location. Factors include whether the intersection has sidewalks; proximity to parks, schools, or other destinations; pedestrian crossing volume; and vehicular volume. The city does not typically place crosswalks at intersections that do not have sidewalks. Please see the City’s Pedestrian Crossing Policy for additional information.

Parking: Streets are for general public use, and the city does not provide designated parking for specific businesses or residences on city streets. To report a parking ordinance violation, call the non-emergency Public Safety number at 763-593-8079.

Curb Painting: Public Works does not paint curbs to indicate parking restrictions.

If you have other questions or requests regarding traffic control, contact the Engineering Division by emailing engineeringdept@goldenvalleymn.gov or call 763-593-8030.