Speed Bumps and Traffic Calming

A speed bump is generally short and produces a more abrupt vehicle response. A speed hump has a longer profile suited to a controlled roadway speed. Raised tables and speed cushions have other geometries and purposes. The traffic designer selects the device based on route function, target speed, vehicles, drainage, and emergency access.

Only where the authority and approved traffic design permit the selected device. Emergency response, transit, heavy trucks, snow clearing, and target speed must be assessed. Speed cushions can be designed with wider wheel paths in some situations, but Harrowgate builds only the approved geometry and coordinates required signs and markings before opening.

Height, ramp length, crest width, and profile come from the approved owner or municipal detail and traffic study. A small height change materially affects vehicle response. Harrowgate lays out from survey, uses templates, checks asphalt during compaction and after cooling, and corrects profiles that fall outside the specified tolerance.

We map gutter and sheet-flow paths before construction. The design may leave gutter channels, relocate a catch basin, alter curb, or regrade the device and approaches. Harrowgate completes those features and checks the finished drainage. Cutting an unapproved groove through the hump can weaken it and does not solve surrounding low spots.

The approved traffic plan specifies advance signs, pavement symbols, chevrons, crosswalks, reflective materials, and any speed advisory. Markings must be visible from the approach and remain coordinated with stall or lane lines. Harrowgate keeps the area closed until vertical geometry, signs, paint, and nighttime visibility are complete.

Yes. The design must provide compliant pedestrian clear width, running and cross slopes, flush transitions, tactile or detectable features where required, drainage, and protection from vehicle encroachment. Harrowgate coordinates concrete or asphalt profile with curb ramps and sidewalks so the crossing does not introduce lips or ponding.

We stage one drive aisle or direction at a time, maintain emergency and delivery routes, use signed detours, and coordinate material cure or cooling. Work can occur off-hours where operations permit. Devices remain barricaded until profile checks, drainage, signs, and markings are complete, preventing traffic from using an unfinished edge.