NTMP - Bulb Outs

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The City of Olympia has four type of approved traffic-calming devices. One includes the Bulb-Out. The other devices available include 14-Foot Speed Cushion, Two-Lane Narrow Point, and One-Lane Narrow Point.

Overview of Bulb-Outs:

Bulb-outs are traffic-calming devices that narrow the street by widening the curb and sidewalk, landscaped planting strip, or parking area.

This device works well when constructed at intersections or at mid-block locations to make the street appear narrow, thereby reducing speeds.

Advantages & Disadvantages:

• Advantages: Reduces pedestrians' crossing distance. Improves pedestrian visibility for drivers. Narrowed lanes can help slow vehicles.
• Disadvantages: Need to accommodate for drainage. Increased street maintenance.

Examples of Bulb-Outs:

Downtown Olympia

• 4th Avenue and Jefferson Street, NE
• Capitol Way and 8th Avenue, SW

Southwest Olympia

• 5th Avenue and Percival Street, SW