The YouTube channel "Speed Bump Olympics" has uploaded a total of 163 videos since its launch four years ago, attracting over 23,600 subscribers despite its content focusing solely on a single street section with two speed bumps. On average, the channel posts 3,4 videos monthly, documenting the dramatic effects of these road features on North Chestnut Avenue.
On North Chestnut Avenue, many drivers approach the first speed bump at speed, seemingly believing they can clear it without slowing down. They are then met by a second, closely following speed bump that often sends vehicles, including police ford explorers, airborne. The recorded footage clearly captures the sound of metal grinding as vehicle suspension systems are pushed to their limits, alongside screeching brakes and the jarring thuds of undercarriages or front ends scraping the bumps and pavement. At night, sparks are often seen flying from beneath vehicles. Some drivers towing trailers maintain speed, resulting in violent bounces that eject unsecured cargo onto the road. In some cases, impacts are severe enough to dislodge license plates, unnoticed by drivers.
The channel's most-watched video, with over 2,2 million views, was posted in 4/2022:
Despite the frequent incidents, the road is equipped with multiple warning signs. These include a 30 mph (48 km/h) speed limit, followed by a "Speed Bump" sign with a supplementary 10 mph (16 km/h) advisory. The pavement itself features large "BUMP" lettering, complemented by directional arrows on the speed bumps and reflective panels for night visibility.
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The notorious road section on North Chestnut Avenue, showing a 30 mph speed limit sign, followed by a speed bump warning and a 10 mph advisory before the actual speed bump (circled in yellow). *Photo: Google Maps* |
The channel operator, believed to be the homeowner with the security camera, states that the speed bumps have undergone multiple modifications over the years. Approximately one year ago, they were upgraded with additional reflective panels. However, the continuous stream of recorded footage suggests these changes have not mitigated the persistent issue.
The practice of placing two speed bumps in close proximity is not uncommon, yet it frequently draws criticism for designs that cause more harm than good. Speed bumps that are excessively steep, high, or closely spaced can inflict significant damage on vehicles. Furthermore, they can endanger pedestrians and cyclists, who risk losing control on such uneven surfaces.
Fresno is well aware of these concerns, having installed approximately 1,000 speed bumps between 1987 and 1997. A moratorium on new installations was then enacted in 2006, lasting until 2021. According to the *Fresno Bee*, residents can petition for additional speed bumps in their neighborhoods to deter speeding drivers and enhance safety. However, opinions among residents living along this particular street remain divided. Some commend the speed bumps for effectively slowing traffic, while others lament the incessant noise generated by vehicles striking them.
California law stipulates that speed bumps can be 7,6-10 cm high and 30 cm wide. While the exact number of speed bumps on a road is not strictly regulated and depends on road length, guidelines suggest each bump should be spaced approximately 152-182 m apart.
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