During a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong support for a proposed 20-mile-per-hour speed limit in downtown areas, emphasizing the need for infrastructure changes to enhance safety. Jason Van Derich, a public participant, highlighted that effective traffic calming measures are essential for encouraging drivers to adhere to lower speed limits. He argued that simply promoting awareness through outreach is insufficient; instead, the city should focus on redesigning streets to make higher speeds uncomfortable for drivers.

Van Derich referenced successful pilot projects and past street redesigns, such as a section of St. Paul, which resulted in reduced speeds and fewer complaints about traffic conditions. He urged city officials to prioritize infrastructure improvements that reinforce the new speed limit, suggesting that physical changes to the roadways would have a more significant impact than educational campaigns.

Sarah Knoel Olsen, another community member and executive director of Will's Post Home, echoed Van Derich's sentiments, particularly regarding the need for significant structural changes on streets like Battery Street and Main Street to effectively lower speeds. She cited evidence linking lower speed limits to decreased fatalities, reinforcing the argument for a comprehensive approach to traffic safety.

City officials responded to the community's concerns, indicating that redesign plans for Main Street are already underway, with a commitment to creating a safer environment that aligns with the proposed speed limit. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of infrastructure in promoting safer transportation systems and reducing traffic-related incidents.