NORWOOD — Despite recommendations of a recent traffic study by Neglia Engineering Associates (NEA), Norwood officials are considering options to decrease speed along Summit Street.

The study found that traffic volume, frequency of accidents and rates of speed were not high enough to merit NEA’s advising the use of "traffic calming" measures.

The study, which measured weekly and daily traffic pattern averages, found that "88 percent of existing traffic volume is within 10 miles per hour of the posted speed limit." Since traffic calming measures are expected to limit speed to 30 to 35 miles per hour, NEA states in the report that "the installation of traffic calming measures in the study area would have a limited effect."

However, according to Mayor Jim Barsa, residents have aired concerns about safety in the area of Summit Street to the west, to the north and to the east of High Street and Broadway to the south. To address the residents’ perception of speeding he said a $150,000 New Jersey Safe Sidewalks to Schools grant could fund any measures taken by the town. If the costs go above that, it would be budgeted into the road program, he said.

Barsa said officials are considering raised intersections or putting "speed tables" on the roadways. Speed tables are long, raised speed humps fastened to the roadway with ramps leading up to textured, flat middle sections. The other option encompasses the entire intersection, where the asphalt would rise to the center and gradually come back down.

However, NEA’s report advises against implementing raised intersections. The report states that the legal interpretation of the state Department of Transportation law regulating such intersections is unclear and they may be prohibited in the municipality.

As of press time Barsa was unavailable to clarify why the raised intersections are being considered despite the study’s recommendation.

However, his goal is to make the streets safer.

"We believe some of these options will benefit everyone. We can’t make everyone happy but when you’re taking care of the most people and doing the right thing by people that’s what counts."

Residents will be able to voice their opinions at the work session meeting Wednesday, Feb. 27.

"They can come hear the options and then we’ll make a decision," said Barsa.