City Council approves speed limit reductions on McCallum Way and Mountain View Road

During the City Council study session on May 14, 2025, significant discussions centered around proposed changes to speed limits on various roadways in Cathedral City, reflecting a growing concern for pedestrian and cyclist safety in residential areas.

One of the primary topics was the recommendation to reduce the speed limit on McCallum Way from Deep Palm Drive to Santoro Drive from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour. This segment, characterized by its residential and commercial properties, including a school, has seen minimal collisions in the past four years. Council members emphasized the importance of aligning speed limits with actual road usage, which includes not only vehicles but also pedestrians and cyclists.

Another segment discussed was Mountain View Road, where the current speed limit of 55 miles per hour is deemed too high given the road's characteristics and history of accidents at nearby intersections. The council proposed lowering the limit to 50 miles per hour to enhance safety for all road users.

The conversation also touched on Palm Drive, where the speed limit is currently set at 60 miles per hour. With an 85th percentile speed recorded at 61 miles per hour and two collisions in the last four years, the council considered reducing the limit to 55 miles per hour. This discussion highlighted the tension between setting speed limits based on driver behavior and prioritizing safety for vulnerable road users.

Council members expressed frustration with the reliance on the 85th percentile speed as a standard for setting limits, arguing that it often leads to higher speed limits that may not be in the best interest of community safety. They acknowledged the need for a more holistic approach that considers factors such as pedestrian and cyclist safety, rather than solely focusing on vehicle speeds.

In conclusion, the discussions during the study session underscored the City Council's commitment to re-evaluating speed limits in light of safety concerns. As the council moves forward with these recommendations, the community can anticipate a more thoughtful approach to roadway safety that prioritizes the well-being of all users. Further discussions and potential adjustments to speed limits are expected in upcoming meetings, as the council seeks to balance traffic flow with safety considerations.