4 Dynamic Speed Signs To Be Installed In Darien

DARIEN, CT — In an effort to gain compliance with speedy drivers, the Darien Police Department will install dynamic speed signs on Mansfield Avenue in the area of Ox Ridge School, and on upper Hoyt Street. A sign will be placed in each direction at both locations

The Darien Board of Selectmen on Monday night unanimously approved a special appropriation of $34,972 for the four signs, which are similar to ones already installed on the Post Road near Darien Library and the Darien YMCA, and near Tokeneke School and lower Hoyt Street.

First Selectman Monica McNally asked if the four signs, in addition to ones already installed, are adequate right now.

"I think this covers our major thoroughfares fairly well. That's what we're looking to do; where we get reports of high speed. Anyone who has driven by any one of these signs in Darien knows you instantly look down to see if you match the speed on the sign," Darien Police Chief Donald Anderson told the Selectmen Monday night. "I don't think there's any dissension where people say these signs don't work. They clearly do. If we're looking for compliance, this is a... long-term, sustained positive impact on driver behavior."

The speed signs are run by solar power, and in the event they can't be powered by the sun for up to four hours, Anderson said a line can be run from a utility pole. They require very little maintenance, although batteries will need to be changed in the future. Anderson said the lifespan of the signs is upwards of 30-40 years.

The signs on upper Hoyt Street will be installed somewhere between the New Canaan town line and the Woodway Country Club, a stretch where residents have requested speed calming measures, Anderson said.

The signs on Mansfield Avenue will be placed north and south of Ox Ridge School.

Selectman Marcy Minnick said she lives on upper Hoyt Street, and often notices a police cruiser parked and observing drivers. She said she hopes the sign will free up police personnel, but Anderson said enforcement will remain a component in curbing speeding.

"These signs record data. They don't use it for enforcement purposes. When we analyze the data and we realize we're getting compliance we want, that lessens the impact of the officer having to sit there and do enforcement. You're never going to wipe out enforcement altogether," Anderson said.

According to the appropriations request submitted to the board, police hope to have the signs installed by summer or early fall 2023.