The cost to deploy and maintain a portable changeable message speed limit sign was estimated at $40,200 per year.

Experience with pedestrian safety programs in San Francisco.

Made Public Date
03/31/2015
Identifier
2015-SC00341
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This report provided key findings from an FHWA funded evaluation of the PedSafe project in San Francisco where ITS countermeasures were implemented to improve pedestrian safety in areas with relatively high injury rates. A portable changeable message speed limit sign (radar speed trailer) was deployed at 51 intersections. In addition, four pole mounted (fixed) changeable message speed limit signs were installed at two mid-block locations. Each system used a radar detector and LED speed display to make drivers aware of excessive speeds and encourage them to slow down.

Agreements were made between the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) and the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) regarding the planning, implementation, operations, maintenance, and storage responsibilities. Extensive inter-agency coordination was required to determine the proper timing and location of each installation. Training was required to enable agency staff to collect and analyze radar speed data.

SYSTEM COSTS

Cost associated with engineering, administration, and labor were relatively high with respect to material and equipment costs. Specialized training, mobilization, and approval processes were major cost drivers. Complex logistical and scheduling arrangements were required to coordinate with local law enforcement.

Portable changeable message speed limit sign (1 unit)

Item Total Cost Unit Cost
Materials/Supplies/Equipment $12,500 $12,500
Installation Labor $7,300 $7,300
Engineering/Administration $20,400 $20,400
Total Cost $40,200 $40,200


Fixed changeable message speed limit sign (4 units)

Item Total Cost Cost Per Sign
Materials/Supplies/Equipment $22,900 $5,700
Installation Labor $13,600 $3,400
Engineering/Administration $11,700 $2,900
Total Cost $48,200 $12,000

San Francisco PedSafe Phase II: Final Implementation Report and Executive Summary

San Francisco PedSafe Phase II: Final Implementation Report and Executive Summary
Source Publication Date
02/26/2008
Author
San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Pedestrian Program and University of California Traffic Safety Center
Publisher
Prepared by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency and University of California
System Cost

Portable changeable message speed limit sign: $40,200 per year.