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Evanston reduces Emerson Street speed limit to 25 mph to lower school crossing hazard
Summary
Council voted 6–0 to lower the speed limit on Emerson Street from 30 to 25 mph, citing traffic‑safety data and the potential to reduce an IDOT 'type 3' school crossing hazard score that affects school bussing decisions.
The Evanston City Council on July 13 approved ordinance 50‑O‑26, lowering the speed limit on Emerson Street from 30 miles per hour to 25.
Council members cited traffic‑safety research showing small reductions in speed can lower crash severity, and a council member said lowering the limit would reduce Emerson’s IDOT hazard score by one point — taking it below the threshold that previously classified the crossing as a Type‑3 school hazard.
Council member Burns described interim safety steps: an existing crosswalk at Dewey and Emerson will be highlighted, a crossing guard will be assigned at key times, and a future crosswalk at Jackson and Emerson will be installed in coordination with planned street projects. The council suspended the usual rules to act in a single evening and passed the ordinance by unanimous voice vote.
The council said lowering posted speeds is intended to encourage walking and biking, reduce crash risk for pedestrians, and support school‑safety objectives. The ordinance takes effect under local code timelines; staff will implement signage and communications.
