New Tempe speed limits nearing green light, but some residents want one more key measure

Although some supported the speed reductions, others were skeptical about their effectiveness.

PUBLISHED AUG 15, 2024

These changes are intended to reduce disparities in speeds and minimize potential conflicts between vehicles.

Tempe, Arizona: The City of Tempe will hold upcoming public hearings for proposed speed limit changes on four major roadways. The first public hearing is scheduled for Monday, August 26 at 6pm in the Tempe City Council Chambers, 31 E. Fifth Street or virtual. The second public hearing and vote is scheduled for Thursday, September 19 at 6pm at the same venue. The public can submit comments or request to speak at both hearings from here.

What are the proposed changes, and where will they be in effect?

The changes include reducing the speed limit from 45 mph to 35 mph on Mill Avenue's north end, matching it with the Town Lake bridge speed limit. Additionally, the speed limit on College Avenue will be reduced from 35 mph to 30 mph from the north city limit to Curry Road. First Street's speed limit will also decrease from 35 mph to 30 mph from Ash Avenue to its west end. Southern Avenue's speed limit will be reduced from 45 mph to 40 mph from 48th Street to the railroad tracks.

At the earlier public meetings many expressed concerns about traffic safety.

Why have these changes been proposed?

These changes are intended to reduce disparities in speeds and minimize potential conflicts between vehicles. They also take into consideration adjacent development and function of each roadway. By matching the speed limits with their respective roadside culture and accounting for any land use changes over time, these adjustments aim to "right size" speeds for safer travel.

Genesis of the proposed limits

On March 12, the Transportation Commission reviewed the proposed changes, followed by a presentation to the City Council on May 2. Public meetings were held on May 15 and June 11 and community members were given the opportunity to provide public comment. On June 20, the City Council reviewed the public comments and provided direction to move forward with the changes.

What was the public response?

At the earlier public meetings many expressed concerns about traffic safety, particularly in areas where increased development has led to higher traffic volumes. Some residents shared experiences of vehicles crashing into their property due to speeding.

Although some participants supported the speed reductions, others were skeptical about their effectiveness, arguing that roundabouts and increased police presence might be more effective solutions.

One Southern Avenue resident echoed this need for stronger enforcement, noting that while she supports the speed reductions, they must be paired with increased police monitoring to be truly effective.