Speeding vehicles and cut-through traffic have become problems on many of Stamford's residential streets. In response, Stamford's residents have demanded a citywide traffic-calming plan. Responding to this demand, the City has assembled a qualified team, led by Urban Engineers, Inc., to develop a citywide master plan.     The master plan will be based on community input and will eventually show street improvements that can slow vehicle speeds and reduce cut-through traffic. The expected effect is to improve the overall quality of life on Stamford's streets. Project objectives are to:      Develop traffic calming techniques to slow traffic to the desired speed limits      Enhance the character and physical environment of the study area      Create pedestrian and bicycle access and street crossings      Discourage traffic from cutting through residential areas     Because traffic calming is a relatively new way of looking at how streets are used, many people are either unaware of the techniques or unfamiliar with the benefits. New techniques are continually being developed and existing ones refined. The Project Team believes that a critical first step will be to educate neighborhood and community residents early in the process. This "up front" educational process delivered by a nationally recognized expert and supported by local professionals will aid in examining traffic calming in general, identify various techniques and applicability, and describe the advantages and disadvantages of specific traffic calming techniques. This process will be brought to each of the City's neighborhoods, and it will empower the residents to improve their own quality of life.