Speed Cushions

 

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The Benefits of Speed Cushions on Highway 1

As traffic volumes continue to rise and road safety becomes an ever-increasing priority, innovative traffic calming measures are being explored and implemented across major routes, including Highway 1. Among these measures, speed cushions have emerged as a practical and effective solution to reduce speeding while maintaining traffic flow. Unlike traditional speed bumps or humps, speed cushions offer a more balanced approach to traffic calming—especially on high-use corridors such as Highway 1.

What Are Speed Cushions?

Speed cushions are raised, segmented road features—typically made of asphalt or rubber—designed to slow down vehicles. Unlike speed bumps that span the entire width of the road, speed cushions have gaps that allow wider vehicles like emergency vehicles and buses to pass through unimpeded, while still encouraging smaller passenger vehicles to slow down.

Why Speed Cushions on Highway 1?

Highway 1 is a critical transportation corridor serving both local traffic and long-distance travel along the coast. While the highway supports high-speed travel in certain stretches, there are areas—particularly near towns, schools, and pedestrian crossings—where speed control is essential for safety. Here’s how speed cushions help.

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1. Improved Safety for Pedestrians and Cyclists

One of the primary benefits of speed cushions is enhanced road safety for non-motorized users. In zones where Highway 1 passes through populated or pedestrian-heavy areas, speed cushions reduce vehicle speeds significantly. Lower vehicle speeds mean:

• Reduced stopping distances
  
  

• Fewer and less severe collisions
  
  

• Increased driver awareness
  
  

This is particularly valuable in communities where Highway 1 intersects with crosswalks, bike lanes, or school zones.

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2. Maintaining Emergency Response Efficiency

Traditional speed bumps and humps often slow down emergency response vehicles. Speed cushions, however, are specifically designed to allow wider emergency vehicles to straddle the cushions, avoiding the delay caused by other calming methods. This design ensures that while general traffic is calmed, emergency services can respond quickly and efficiently, which is vital along a major route like Highway 1.

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3. Cost-Effective Traffic Calming

Compared to other infrastructure changes such as narrowing roads or installing traffic lights, speed cushions are:

• Relatively inexpensive to install
  
  

• Low maintenance
  
  

• Quick to implement
  
  

This makes them a cost-effective option for municipalities looking to improve road safety without major reconstruction or budget strain.

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4. Preserving Traffic Flow

One of the criticisms of traditional speed humps is that they can disrupt traffic flow and increase congestion. Speed cushions allow for a smoother, more flexible traffic flow, especially in areas where commercial or public transport vehicles are frequent. Buses and trucks can maneuver over the cushions with minimal disruption, ensuring that Highway 1 continues to support efficient transportation.

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Conclusion

Speed cushions offer a smart, balanced solution for improving road safety without compromising efficiency—an ideal match for the diverse demands of Highway 1. By slowing down vehicles where needed, maintaining access for emergency responders, and minimizing costs, speed cushions can play a key role in creating safer, more livable highway corridors.

As traffic planners look for effective ways to balance mobility and safety, speed cushions are proving to be an increasingly valuable tool on Highway 1 and beyond.

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59 Druces Road, Manukau, Auckland

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Tel : 09-260 4810