One city is taking an interesting approach to cutting down traffic congestion in neighborhoods. Aspen, Colo. City Council members want to pursue 14 mph speed limits in one local neighborhood as a way to try to discourage motorists from cutting through the area and driving too fast. The Aspen Times shared the details on Jan. 30.
The residents of the West End neighborhood are worried about fast drivers cutting through their neighborhood, despite currently having a 25 mph speed limit. Other methods to slow down traffic have been tried and aren't making much of an impact, so some say an unusual speed limit may attract the attention of drivers. Thus, council members have proposed a 14 mph speed limit. The city may also add speed bumps and additional intersections in the area to try to slow drivers down a bit.
This tactic doesn't come without a cost, however. The change would cost the city over $27,000 for new speed-limit signs, and some worry that there could be legal challenges against the unusual speed limit. Despite those obstacles, the city and neighborhood residents seem prepared to move forward. What do you think of a 14 mph speed limit? Would that catch your attention and slow down your driving?
Comments