New speed smileys in residential areas to make roads safer for kids and pedestrians
Drivers in your neighborhood will soon see happy or angry smileys on digital signs as the municipality tackles speeding near schools and busy streets. The initiative aims to reduce risks for children and pedestrians by encouraging safer driving habits.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Measure | Speed smileys (digital feedback signs) |
| Locations | Vronkenlaan (near school zone), Acacialaan (residential area with schools) |
| Future Location | Heinsiuslaan (after redevelopment in June 2026) |
| Speed Limit | 30 km/h in designated zones |
| Duration per Location | ~4 weeks |
| Feedback Mechanism | Happy smiley (within limit), angry smiley (speeding) |
| Data Collection | Speed data recorded for traffic safety monitoring |
Municipalities in the Netherlands are responsible for local traffic safety, including enforcing speed limits and implementing measures to protect pedestrians and cyclists. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to reduce accidents in residential areas and near schools.
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Read the full translated article below
Municipality installs speed displays to improve traffic safety
The municipality is placing two so-called speed smileys in the village. These digital signs measure the speed of passing vehicles with radar and provide immediate feedback to drivers. Those who adhere to the speed limit see a happy smiley. If driving too fast, people see an angry smiley. Research shows that this direct visual feedback encourages motorists to adjust their speed.
The displays also record speed data. The municipality uses this data to better monitor traffic safety. The speed displays are not always in one place. They stay on a road for about four weeks, after which the municipality moves them to another street. This way, the municipality can measure the effect in multiple locations. We also know that the effect for road users is greater as a result.
First locations
- Vronkenlaan; between Engelendaal and Lijnbaan. A speed limit of 30 km/h has been in effect here since February. The display will be placed before the school zone to draw extra attention to this speed limit.
- Acacialaan; a display will be placed here following concerns from residents about speeding. There are two schools in the area and many students cross the road daily.
Future location
A speed display will also be used on Heinsiuslaan after the redevelopment and the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit. The expectation is that the final design for this road will be established in June 2026. By using the speed smileys, the municipality aims to further improve traffic safety in residential streets and around schools.