Request School Traffic Calming in Tulsa - City Bylaw Guide
Tulsa, Oklahoma parents concerned about vehicle speeds and safety near schools can pursue traffic calming through City of Tulsa procedures. This guide explains who enforces rules, how to submit a request, what documents or petitions the city typically requires, and the likely enforcement path. It refers to the City of Tulsa traffic-calming program and municipal code for traffic controls and provides official contacts for Public Works and Traffic Services to report hazards or request studies[1] and the municipal code for legal authority on traffic controls and penalties[2]. For immediate reporting of unsafe conditions or crashes, contact Public Works Traffic Services or file a service request online[3].
How the Tulsa traffic-calming process works
Requests typically begin with a resident petition or service request to Traffic Services. The city evaluates site data, traffic volumes, speeds, collision history, and proximity to school facilities; then it may install speed cushions, signage, curb extensions, or other countermeasures based on engineering criteria. The Traffic Engineering division coordinates studies with school zones, school crossing guards, and police enforcement. Timelines depend on assessment, funding, and project prioritization.
Penalties & Enforcement
The primary enforcement actors are Tulsa Police Department (for moving violations) and City of Tulsa Public Works/Traffic Engineering (for engineering controls and signage). The municipal code governs traffic regulations and penalties; specific fine amounts for traffic violations are set within the municipal code and traffic schedules but are not itemized on the Traffic Calming program page cited below[2].
- Enforcer: Tulsa Police Department enforces moving violations; Public Works/Traffic Engineering enforces installation and maintenance of traffic-control devices.
- Fines: specific fine amounts are not specified on the Traffic Calming program page and must be confirmed in the municipal code or court schedule[2].
- Escalation: first and repeat offences for moving violations follow state and municipal ticketing practice; the Traffic Calming page does not list escalation ranges or continuing-offence fines.
- Non-monetary remedies: orders to remove unauthorized signs or barriers, engineering orders to adjust devices, and referral to municipal court for unresolved violations.
- Inspection and complaints: submit requests or petitions to Public Works/Traffic Services for field review and data collection[3].
Applications & Forms
The city publishes a traffic-calming request process and may provide a petition or request form on the Public Works Traffic Services page; if a formal petition form is required it is available from Traffic Services. If no dedicated form exists, submit a service request describing location, times, and concerns. Fee information for studies or installations is not specified on the traffic-calming overview page and should be confirmed with Traffic Services or the municipal code[1].
How to prepare a request
- Document peak drop-off and pick-up times and collect a neighborhood petition showing support for study or measures.
- Photograph problem areas, record speed observations, and note any collisions or near-misses.
- Complete the traffic-calming request form or service request on Public Works Traffic Services and attach evidence.
- Contact Traffic Services to confirm submission, ask about timelines, and request follow-up inspection.
Actions the city may take
- Field study with speed and volume counts and collision analysis.
- Temporary measures such as portable signs or speed feedback trailers.
- Permanent engineering measures like curb extensions, raised crosswalks, speed cushions, or signal timing changes as funds and criteria allow.
Action steps for parents
- Gather evidence: dates, times, photos, and neighbor statements.
- Submit a formal request or petition to Public Works Traffic Services online or by mail; request a study date.
- Follow up with Traffic Services and, if needed, request police speed enforcement or school crossing guard review.
- If denied, ask for the written evaluation, timelines for reconsideration, and appeal or public comment opportunities at Council or Traffic Advisory meetings.
FAQ
- How long does a traffic-calming study take?
- The time varies by workload and funding; initial field reviews often take weeks and full studies may take months depending on data collection and prioritization.
- Will the city pay for permanent changes?
- Funding depends on City budgets and project prioritization; some measures may require capital funding or special assessments and are prioritized against other city projects.
- Can I request temporary measures while waiting for a permanent fix?
- Yes; Traffic Services may deploy temporary signage, speed feedback trailers, or other interim measures during evaluation.
How-To
- Identify and document the exact location, times, and safety concerns you observe near the school.
- Visit the Public Works Traffic Services page and download or request the traffic-calming petition or service request form[1].
- Submit the completed form and supporting evidence online or by mail, and ask for a case or service request number.
- Follow up with Traffic Services for the field study schedule and request interim enforcement from Tulsa Police if immediate hazards exist.
- Attend any public meetings or hearings if the project is prioritized for construction, and track funding or appeal timelines.
Key Takeaways
- Document times, speeds, and incidents before submitting a request.
- Use the official Traffic Services request or petition to start a study.
- Follow up with Traffic Services and Tulsa Police for enforcement and interim measures.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Tulsa Public Works - Traffic Services
- Tulsa Municipal Code (Municode) - Code of Ordinances
- City of Tulsa Traffic Calming Program