The NTMP was developed in 1994 in response to citizen demands to address speeding on residential streets. By the end of 1994, over 40 neighborhoods had applied for mitigation assistance. With goals to improve neighborhood livability and safety, and to encourage citizen involvement in finding solutions, the broad-based program resulted from meetings between citizens and city staff, which included Fire, Police, Transportation and Planning departments. Sponsored by the Police Department, Transportation Division, Neighborhood Liaison's Office and Fire Department, the NTMP is a multifaceted approach to the problem of speeding. There are a number of tools available that will help make neighborhoods safer and more livable.
Neighborhoods begin to solve the speeding problem by using the education tools.
For example, the Neighborhood Speed Watch and the Radar Speed Monitoring Trailer helps drivers become aware of their speeds. These tools tell drivers that the neighborhood is very concerned about speeding. They also educate the residents on the extent of the speeding problem in their neighborhood. The speed data can also be used to support a request for additional enforcement activities in the neighborhood. Photo radar is an example of an enforcement tool.