In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the development of a new initiative aimed at enhancing road safety in downtown areas by potentially lowering speed limits. This initiative is grounded in existing plans, including the BiPED master plan and the local road safety plan adopted earlier this year, which identifies high-collision zones primarily linked to high vehicle speeds.

The local road safety plan highlights the need for speed limit reductions, particularly in areas with vulnerable road users, such as senior centers. Currently, most speed limits in downtown are set at 25 miles per hour, but the proposal aims to establish 20-mile-per-hour zones in specific areas that meet the necessary criteria outlined in state regulations.

Preliminary results indicate a draft proposal for a rectangular zone in downtown where all streets qualify for the lower speed limit. However, some streets will remain at the existing 25 miles per hour limit. The next steps involve refining this proposal through engineering studies to ensure enforceability and compliance with regulations.

Officials emphasized the importance of community education and awareness as part of the implementation process, which is expected to include the installation of new signage and road markings by 2025. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving pedestrian and cyclist safety in urban environments.