Lincoln drops residential speed limit to 40 km/h

Lincoln is dropping the residential speed limit from 50 km/h to 40 km/h throughout the town.

“This decision reflects our commitment to the safety and well-being of our community,” said Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton.

“By making this speed limit reduction permanent, we are taking a significant step toward creating safer streets for all residents and visitors alike.”

The initiative to lower speed limits in residential neighbourhoods emerged in response to concerns raised by residents and Council members about road safety issues.

In October 2021, Council requested a plan for reducing speed limits, leading to the launch of the 40 km/h Area Speed Limit Reduction Pilot Program in 2022. The pilot program, supported by Council, tested the effectiveness of lower speed limits in four urban areas.

The four residential areas piloted were:

• Ward 1: Area bounded by Bartlett Road, Greenlane Road, Ontario Street, and John Street
• Ward 2: Area bounded by King Street, Lincoln Avenue, Mountain Street, and Highland Park Drive
• Ward 3: Area bounded by Rittenhouse Road, King Street and Victoria Avenue
• Ward 4: Area bounded by Culp Road, Victoria Avenue, King Street, and Twenty-Third Street

Lincoln plans to start additional 40 km/h speed reduction areas for the rest of the year to complete the transition for all local roads within urban areas by the end of 2024.

Resident feedback, gathered through an online survey, indicates strong support for the initiative, with 71 pr cent of respondents expressing satisfaction with the change. Initial speed study results show a three per cent reduction in average vehicle operating speeds, a positive sign of the program’s impact.

“By approving the permanent reduction of the speed limit to 40 km/h in urban areas, we are not just altering traffic rules; we are fostering a culture of safety and community,” said Tony Brunet, Ward 2 Councillor and Chair of the Town’s Community Services and Infrastructure Committee.

“This initiative reflects our dedication to creating streets where every member of our community can thrive.”