City Update: Traffic & Transportation
On April 30, 2024, Thomas Tisdale of the City of Charleston’s Department of Traffic and Transportation joined residents at The Hub for a presentation about the department and a discussion about traffic and transportation-related concerns at Point Hope.
Tisdale leads the Traffic Operations Department, which handles the following:
Managing street signs
Addressing encroachments
Implementing traffic calming measures - particularly speed reduction
Managing the Parking Enforcement Division
Heading up the new Transportation Project Management Department
Traffic Congestion and Speeding
Current traffic congestion issues during school pickup and drop-off times were discussed, along with concerns about speeding along Point Hope Parkway. Tisdale explained that as a main thoroughfare, speed humps are prohibited on Point Hope Parkway. However, he said alternative traffic calming measures for this road could be considered, including the installation of speed feedback signs to potentially slow down drivers. The use of these signs also allows the department to collect data on peak speeding times, which informs police enforcement strategies.
Speed Humps and Flashing Beacons
It is possible to request speed humps for residential roadways, but Tisdale explained that analysis is required prior to authorization for installation. Among the things taken into consideration is the impact on emergency response times, which are increased by approximately 10 seconds per speed hump. Tisdale noted that requests can be made regarding the installation of flashing beacons at crosswalks, but noted that they aren’t guaranteed and are dependent on available funding.
Parking
Regarding parking on neighborhood streets, Tisdale explained that if the side of a street is 27 feet or less in width, parking is not permitted on that side due to fire code requirements. For anyone wanting to park a POD or construction trailer in the right of way during periods of construction or to accommodate moving, a permit must be obtained.
Residents were reminded that Charleston’s parking regulations and ordinances are applicable even when there are no signs posted. For example, parking within 30 feet of an intersection is prohibited, regardless of whether or not that area is marked with a sign.
Traffic and Road Signage
Tisdale shared that the sign installation team is working to ensure timely sign replacement based on a monthly Charleston area priority schedule.
If you have specific questions for Mr. Tisdale and the City’s Department of Traffic and Transportation, he instructed attendees to email tisdalet@charleston-sc.gov.