FAQs • Northampton, MA • CivicEngage

Do I only act as a Pace Car in my neighborhood or on all streets?: On all city streets. The Pace Car is a kind of treaty between neighborhoods: you respect the quality of life in our neighborhood and we will do the same for you. The Pace Car promotes a new civility and mutual respect on our streets.

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Pace Car Program

1. Will my car really make a difference?: Yes. We only need a small percentage of vehicles acting as Pace Cars to slow traffic city-wide. This starts a positive cycle. People feel more comfortable walking or cycling, which reduces traffic levels, making streets even safer, meaning even more people can walk or cycle.

2. Does the Pace Car provoke road rage?: No. Many people who sign up to the Pace Car Program were already acting as unofficial Pace Cars. They report that incidents of road rage decrease when they badge their car as a Pace Car. Instead of the driver behind thinking they are stuck behind some 'idiot' who doesn't know how to drive, the Pace Car sticker lets them know that there is a purpose for why the car is being driven within the speed limit.

3. What happens if I accidentally speed?: Take a breath and slow down. The Pace Car pledge is a declaration of intent, not a legally binding contract or repressive cult where you will be stoned if you break the 'rules'! Kicking the speed habit can be hard work. Allow yourself more time to get places so you won't be so tempted to speed.

4. Do I only act as a Pace Car in my neighborhood or on all streets?: On all city streets. The Pace Car is a kind of treaty between neighborhoods: you respect the quality of life in our neighborhood and we will do the same for you. The Pace Car promotes a new civility and mutual respect on our streets.