Public Works - Traffic Engineering Division
 Division Goal -
Our division goal is to provide development, design, and project management services for Citywide Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects: ensure proposed new developments are in compliance with generally accepted engineering standards, City ordinances and other statutory regulations; provide surveying and inspection services on CIP projects and developer financed public improvements to ensure conformance to construction standards, plans, specifications and statutory regulations; provide for the safe and efficient movement of people and products through traffic engineering operations, design and planning; and provide management and oversight for the design and construction of the various project elements of the Bakersfield Systems Plan.
As traffic engineers for the City, we take our role
in solving traffic problems very seriously. Yet the ultimate
burden of safety rests with you, the motorist in Bakersfield.
Although we receive over 200 citizen requests per year,
we try to investigate your request as quickly as work
load permits.
We will respond after carefully evaluating your request.
We appreciate your patience and understanding. If you have
questions, requests or suggestions concerning traffic, please call the
Engineering Division at (661) 326-3724 or feel free to e-mail
us.
For all other information please refer to the Engineering Traffic links.
Traffic Signals
Each year, the city receives many inquiries concerning the
operation of traffic signals within the City. The public's
understanding of the function of traffic signals can improve
driving habits by reducing speeding and associated traffic
accidents. The more drivers know about the operation of traffic
signals the less they will be frustrated when waiting for
a signal to change.
Why Are Traffic Signals Needed?
As traffic volumes increase beyond the capability of lesser
controls such as a four way stop, it may be necessary to
install a traffic signal. Before installing a traffic signal
at an intersection, established minimum criteria must be
satisfied. A review includes: The amount of vehicular and
pedestrian traffic; the need to provide interruption to the
major flow for side street vehicles and pedestrians; special
conditions such as hills and curves; the accident history
of the intersection and the proximity of schools.
Neighborhood Traffic Safety
Citizens frequently express their concerns regarding traffic
speeds and pedestrian safety in residential neighborhoods.
The City established this neighborhood traffic program to address
these concerns. The program involves a joint effort between
the residents and the City in an effort to improve traffic
safety in their neighborhoods
Crosswalks
Crosswalks are either marked or unmarked.
The California Vehicle Code defines a "crosswalk" as
the portion of a roadway at an intersection, which is an
extension of
the curb and property lines of the intersecting street or
is any other portion of a roadway which is marked as a pedestrian
crossing location by painted lines. A marked crosswalk is
any crosswalk which is delineated by white or yellow painted
markings placed on the pavement. All other crosswalk locations
are therefore
unmarked.
Truck Routes & Maps
Specific
traffic routes have been adopted by city ordinance, pursuant
to California Vehicle Code section 35701, for trucks and
other commercial vehicles over 25,000 pounds.
The City has adopted truck
routes for both Interstate and California Legal type
trucks. Please refer to Bakersfield Municipal Code.
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