The slushy remains of snowstorms are messy and troublesome for everyone. Roads are icy, sidewalks are narrow, and public transportation is strained.
Yet, while snow covers much of New England, the traffic patterns in the snow are revealing exactly what is needed and used by cars, and what is NOT – and we should be paying attention.
The buildup of snow not cleared for traffic is called a “sneckdown,” a term coined by NYC-based transportation publication “Streetsblog.” It combines two words: snow + neckdown.
What is a “Sneckdown”?
A “neckdown” is a road safety design that narrows the roadway at intersections, in order to reduce traffic speed and reduce crossing distances. The Federal Highway Administration encourages neckdowns because more than half of roadway injuries occur at intersections.
Recent modifications at the intersection of Broadway and Friendship Streets are one example of a “neckdown.”
A “sneckdown” is a neckdown caused by snow. Because it marks where traffic does NOT go, a sneckdown can reveal where traffic calming measures can be implemented. Where snow remains reveals what can be “reclaimed” for other purposes – including safer passage for pedestrians and bicycles.
Paying attention after a snowstorm shows us where intersections use more roadway than necessary. “Sneckdowns” can inspire residents and officials to imagine better use of road space for all road users and where less asphalt, more public space, and ultimately safer conditions for all are possible.
We’d love to hear from you!
Do you have pictures of “sneckdowns” around Aquidneck Island? Please send them to chrisburich@bikenewportri.org so we can use them in our documentation and on social media. Stay safe and stay warm!
Bike Newport