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Narrower streets are intentional Some of the new streets in Medford subdivisions seem much narrower than normal. For example: the streets named Shadow Wood, Halvorsen Street and Marsh Lane off of Kings Highway. Has there been a change in city codes that allow for these narrower streets that make passing cars more difficult? If so, what was the city's reasoning for allowing narrower streets? -- Dennis D., Medford Narrower streets do make it more difficult to pass cars, Dennis. That's the very reason for it, according to city staff. Measured curb to curb, city streets that are classified "residential" can be as narrow as 28 feet or as wide as 36 feet. Such streets are meant to be narrow to prevent higher traffic volumes, says associate traffic engineer Lisa Owens. There are a few exceptions. Among them: short residential "lanes" that offer access to no more than eight dwellings (24 feet). Certain cul-de-sacs can be even narrower. The intent of the street classification system is to protect the residential character of neighborhoods by limiting traffic, speed, noise and fumes, Owens says. Also, minimizing pavement keeps temperatures down and reduces stormwater runoff, thus improving water quality. (Send your questions to "Since You Asked," Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501; or by fax to (541) 776-4376; or by e-mail to: [email protected] Please include your name, address and phone number for verification.) Today's Edition : News | Sports | Business | Weather | Tempo | Classifieds Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 2000, Medford, Oregon USA