What is the process for requesting the installation of a stop sign at an intersection near a school?

The determination of who will install any traffic control device depends on who owns the road.

• If the road is owned by a village, the village board makes the determination.
• If the road is owned by a town, the town board makes the determination.
• If the road is owned by a county, the county Highway Superintendent makes the determination.
• If the state owns the road, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Regional Engineer makes the determination.

In some jurisdictions, there may be a traffic safety board, which has been given this authorization.

In order to install a stop sign, an engineering study must be completed first. The results of an engineering study will justify whether there is a need or not. Stop signs in particular should only be installed following the engineering study process since stop signs are often misused which results in violations being unenforceable.

You could also to reach out to the NYSDOT Regional Traffic Engineer to get input and support. Safety issues, particularly in or around school zones, are critical. If there are safety issues in a school zone, it may be advisable to ask the School Board to also reach out to the DOT, this will provide additional support for a study to be conducted.

There are also regulations regarding the use of signage in school zones (See Chapter 6, Page 67 of the New York State Traffic Sign Handbook for Local Roads), but first it must be determined if any traffic controls are needed.

Resources:

New York State Traffic Sign Handbook for Local Roads
https://cornell.app.box.com/v/clrp-pb-tsh

Solutions for Safer Roads and Streets
https://cornell.app.box.com/v/solutions-safer-roads

Traffic Signs and Pavement Markings
https://cornell.app.box.com/v/clrp-ws-tspm

October, 19'