Worcester City Council recently made a significant decision to lower the speed limit to 25 miles per hour citywide, with certain areas designated as “safety zones” where the speed limit will be further reduced to 20 miles an hour. The move comes in response to a series of tragic accidents involving young pedestrians, including fatalities and serious injuries.
The City Council declared a “Road Safety and Traffic Violence Crisis” following an alarming number of pedestrian-involved crashes in 2024. The decision to lower the speed limit was met with both support and concern from residents, with some questioning the enforcement and effectiveness of the measure.
Several members of the public, including Sarah Stewart of the First Unitarian Church in Worcester, voiced their support for the speed limit reduction during a Council meeting. They emphasized the need to prioritize safety for all road users, especially vulnerable populations such as children and individuals with disabilities.
Councilor-at-large Khrystian King expressed his support for the speed limit reduction, calling it a positive step towards improving road safety in the city. The decision will go into effect once the necessary signage is erected throughout Worcester.
Overall, the move to lower the speed limit reflects a commitment to enhancing road safety and reducing the risk of accidents and injuries in Worcester.Residents are encouraged to adhere to the new speed limits and prioritize safety while driving or walking in the city.
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