In a move aimed at bolstering road safety and facilitating smoother traffic flow, Bloomington has enacted a series of speed limit adjustments throughout the city. Following a path that included citizen feedback, and a green light from the City Council, local neighborhood roads will now see speed limits set at 25 miles per hour. The changes, which were also applied to larger streets, now span a range from 25 to 35 miles per hour, adjustments that promise a safer commute for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Moreover, in an effort to enhance the safety of the city's youngest residents, Bloomington is putting the finishing touches on a speed limit reduction to 20 miles per hour in school zones. The streets affected include West 84th Street in the vicinity of Poplar Bridge Elementary School, West 102nd Street stretching from France Avenue to Normandale Boulevard, an area serving Olson Middle and Elementary schools as well as Jefferson High School, and finally, West 106th Street for Oak Grove Elementary and Middle schools. These changes were made with the best of intentions, considering the intimate nature of the local roadways and the precious cargo they bear every school day.
The decision to modify speed limits came as a result of considering some evaluations including community feedback via the Neighborhood Transportation Management Plan, studies indicating the most effective speed limits for safety and traffic flow, and guidelines according to engineering best practices. The city believes this multi-faceted approach will lead to the most beneficial outcome for all parties involved on Bloomington's roads.
Residents interested in learning more about the specifics of the new speed limits, or looking to offer their input on the changes can find additional information at the city’s web portal.
