Lowering speed limits to 15 mph and 20 mph around some schools in unincorporated areas in San Mateo County will be studied, in an effort to address safety concerns and promote alternate means of transportation.
The study, which is estimated to take nine months to a year, looks to determine if county streets are eligible and appropriate for permanent revision of speed limits. The hope is that it addresses concerns regarding safety around schools and ultimately incentivize students walking or biking more frequently.
Motor vehicle speeds were identified as a primary determining factor in the safety of road users, especially walking students, the County Office of Education Safe Routes to School Program found.
“We’ve made great strides through our Safe Routes to Schools Initiatives to improve conditions for our children walking to school, but the simplest solution may be just lowering the speed limits from 25 mph to 15 mph,” Supervisor David Canepa said. “If we want to reach ‘vision zero’ in road deaths and serious injuries, pedestrians, bicyclists and the driving public must all do their parts in adhering to the law to keep our streets safe.”
Public Works Director Ann Stillman said that although reducing speed limits will help with safety concerns, she said it’s still the responsibility of local residents.
“It’s like those signs ask, drive like your children live here,” Stillman said.
The study will cost around $400,000 and will be sourced through Measure A funds, a half-cent sales tax dedicated toward transportation facilities and services.
The Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to amend the relevant ordinance code and permit the study. Future implementation of any changes to 15 mph or 20 mph speed limits on county maintained roads will require further action by the board.
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