NTMP - One-Lane Narrow Point

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

Overview One-Lane Narrow Point:

A one-lane narrow point is a traffic-calming device that reduces the roadway width to one 12-foot travel lane for approximately 20 feet. The one lane requires drivers to take turns driving through the device. A one-lane narrow point creates a visual effect that makes the street more visually restrictive.

This device works well as an entrance treatment into a neighborhood to inform drivers they are transitioning from a higher speed facility to a low-speed, pedestrian-oriented area. Note that device can be installed with vegetation. Learn about landscaping maintenance.

Advantages & Disadvantages:

• Advantages: Works well in combination with other devices. Works well on emergency services main response routes.
• Disadvantages: Where no sidewalks exist, vehicles share the same area used by pedestrians and bicyclists to navigate through the device. Need to accommodate for drainage. Increased street maintenance.

Examples of One-Lane Narrow Points:

Northwest Olympia

• Division Street, NW and Bush Avenue, NW
• Thomas Street, NW, and Farwell Avenue, NW

Southeast Olympia

• 4th Avenue East and Wilson Street, SE
• 4th Avenue East and Frederick Street, SE