Background

Speed limits are set to provide drivers with the most appropriate rate of travel, based on the specific road conditions. Examples of conditions include: poor sightlines, school zones, congested areas, urban areas, neighbourhood zones, and areas with vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, children and the elderly.

Appropriate speeds are key to achieving an improvement in road safety, especially for those vulnerable road users. Speed regulations and posted speed limits help drivers in selecting appropriate operating speeds for the given road condition. The maximum safe speed at any location is dependent on road geometry, traffic patterns and the road environment. City Council has expressed a strong desire to see lower vehicle speeds on neighbourhood streets and around schools.

Building on the City’s current pilot which reduces the speed limit in the Westvale, Eastbridge and Old Abbey neighbourhoods, this project will focus on Class 4 and 5 roads (local and minor collector roads) on residential streets and school zones.

Major collector and arterial roads under both City and Regional jurisdiction are intended to facilitate the movement of large volumes of people and goods, and are out of scope for this project. Roads in industrial areas are also not included.

Why 30 km/h?

During the April 19, 2021 Council meeting (discussion begins at approximately 4:48:28), Council approved the Transportation Master Plan, and directed staff to present options for advancing 30 km/h options for Class 4 and 5 roads (local and minor collector) on residential streets and in school zones.

Council members referred to several research sources and examples of cities reducing the posted speed limit in their pursuit of Vision Zero. Specifically, to the City of Waterloo Transportation Master Plan, the National Association of City Transportation Officials report on setting speed limits, and the World Health Organization report on managing speeds.

Studies have shown that a reduction in vehicle operating speeds from 50 km/h to 40 km/h increases the chance of survival from 15% to 70% for a vulnerable road user struck by a vehicle. This rate is further increased to 90% for operating speeds of 30 km/h (City of Toronto. Toronto Complete Streets Guidelines. 2016. Figure 8-5., Transportation Association of Canada, 2011. Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads Part 1. 1.2.5.2 - 1.2.5.4.).

Some research suggests that identifying slower speed limits in specific areas where the most vulnerable road users are (school zones) increases awareness for drivers and has a positive effect on speed limit compliance (NACTO. Setting Safe Speed Limits on Urban Streets. 2020. Page 46.)