New digital Speed Signs in Deschutes County

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes County Road Department is implementing a project to install 24 signs with digital speed displays built into them. These signs will be added to across eight roads in the county.

The initiative is part of a larger effort to remind drivers of speed limits in locations where motorists may exceed safe speeds.

These solar-powered signs display vehicle speeds alongside the posted speed limit. They are designed to serve as reminders rather than tools for surveillance or enforcement.

Deschutes County Road Department Director Chris Doty told KTVZ news people ask for these types of signs to be installed in their neighboods, because they get people to slow down. “Typically it's about a anywhere from a 2 to 7 mile per hour reduction in the corridor speed,” Doty said. “And so it's a proven safety countermeasure. Again, just to help folks drive, you know, a safer speed and and operate their vehicle more safely.”

High speeds were identified as a key trend in road user behavior by the Deschutes County's 2019 Transportation System Action Plan. Data indicates speeding was a contributing factor in 42% of fatal crashes that year. These speed signs, called "Dynamic Speed Feedback signs" are considered a cost-effective method to reduce driver speeds on rural roadways.

The 24 Dynamic Speed Feedback signs will be installed on various roads across the county. Four signs will be placed on Alfalfa Market Road, Burgess Road, Cline Falls Highway, Day Road Powell Butte Highway, South Canal Boulevard, South Century Drive and the Old Bend–Redmond Highway.

The project is funded by a grant totaling $1,032,873, which the county road department received.