Hey folks, Logan Rutt here from the BBP Advocacy Policy Sub-Committee here asking for your help to support traffic calming and safe streets in Ada County! On December 11, ACHD will be meeting to vote on a revision to the approval and implementation process for neighborhood traffic calming. By supporting the approval of this policy, you can help neighborhoods identify areas of risk to bicyclists and implement safer infrastructure.

What is traffic calming?

Traffic calming is a general term for anything that aims to reduce the speed of automobile traffic, typically on slower neighborhood streets frequented by pedestrians and bicyclists. Roundabouts, chicanes, medians, and even speedbumps are some common forms of traffic calming utilized on our roadways.

What does the new policy do?

Among other things, the proposed policy’s main goal is to make it easier and more efficient for neighborhoods to pitch for traffic calming projects and to get them approved. Specifically, the new policy would only require 60% of residents on the proposed street to approve the project (down from 75%), no petition is needed and would include educational materials in the rollout of projects so that citizens can more easily recognize the positive effects of traffic calming on user safety.

Read up on the full policy info page here!

Traffic Calming ACHD Page

What is Public Testimony?

Public testimony is an opportunity for individuals to express their opinions, concerns, or support for specific issues during public hearings or meetings. In the context of bicycle advocacy, public testimony provides a platform to voice the needs and preferences of the bicycling community.

How To Prepare Your Testimony:

Understand the Purpose

• Clarify why you are testifying (e.g., supporting or opposing a policy, advocating for funding, or raising awareness).

• Know your audience—identify who will hear your testimony (e.g., city council, ACHD commissioners, or state legislators).

Research the Topic

• Gather facts, data, and real-life examples to support your points.

• Review the proposal, ordinance, or issue you’re testifying about.

• Anticipate counterarguments and prepare responses.

Draft Your Testimony

• Open with a polite introduction: state your name, affiliation (e.g., student, teacher, etc.), and your purpose for speaking.

• Outline your main points, supported by evidence or stories. Keep your argument logical and clear.

• Conclude with a call to action, summarizing what you want the decision-makers to do.

Check Time Limits

• Verify the time allotted for testimony. Typically, it’s 2-5 minutes. At ACHD it is 3 min.

• Practice editing your draft to fit within the time while keeping it impactful.

Step-by-Step Process for Giving Oral Testimony At The Public Hearing

• Arrive Prepared

• Arrive early to get a feel for the setting and sign up if required.

• Bring all necessary materials, including a printed copy of your testimony.

• For folks online, you can put your name, address, and which policy you’d like to testify for in the Zoom chat.

Stay Composed and Confident

• Take deep breaths to manage nerves.

• Maintain good posture and make eye contact with the audience or panel.

Start with a Strong Introduction

• Greet the panel respectfully and introduce yourself.

• State your affiliation and purpose concisely:

• Example: “Good afternoon. My name is Nina Pienaar, Advocacy Director at the Boise Bicycle Project. I’m here today to testify in support of...”

Deliver Your Testimony

• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.

• Use conversational tone while staying professional.

• Stick to your prepared remarks but adapt if necessary.

• Be respectful and always try to find common ground.

Emphasize Key Points

• Highlight your main message and any calls to action.

• Rely on personal experiences to share why you are in support or not.

Handle Questions Gracefully

• Take a moment to think before responding.

• If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say, “I’ll follow up with that information.”

Conclude Effectively

• Restate your key message briefly. Example: “To conclude I am in support of/do not support…”

• Thank the panel for their time and consideration.

Want to support but cannot attend or call in?

We encourage you to testify on December 11th to show your support for these important changes. There’s a Zoom option available so you can still share your voice from anywhere.

When: December 11, 2024
Where: 3775 N Adams St, Garden City, ID 83714
Time: 12 PM

Zoom Link: Join the Meeting