CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The City of Chillicothe is set to install speed humps on Pawnee Road and South Watt Street starting April 17 in a bid to enhance road safety and address residents’ concerns about speeding, city officials announced.
The initiative, follows a traffic calming study that reportedly found average speeds on these roads exceeded safe levels despite posted speed limits and regular police enforcement. The study was prompted by numerous complaints from residents about reckless driving, the city said.
Unlike speed bumps, which are short and abrupt, speed humps are longer with a gentler slope, designed to slow vehicles without causing discomfort at lower speeds. Three speed humps will be installed on Pawnee Road, and four on South Watt Street, with work expected to be completed by April 19.
The Chillicothe City Council approved the project through ordinance 56-24 on September 9, 2024, allocating funds for the installations. The Safety Service Department will oversee the work, which is expected to cause lane closures and traffic disruptions during the three-day period. Motorists are advised to exercise caution, use alternate routes, and follow detour maps provided by the city to access local businesses.
Residents and motorists with questions can contact the Safety Service Department at 740-773-2700 or via email at Service.Department@ChillicotheOH.gov.