BIG MOVE #2 - City-wide Speed Limit Reductions

Action

• Reduce posted speed limits* on all local residential streets in Port Moody to 30 kilometres per hour (km/h). On a case-by-case basis, consider reducing posted speed limits on busier collector and arterial roads to 40 km/h or lower.

Contribution to Climate Action Plan Targets

• At slower driving speeds, urban traffic typically flows more smoothly, leading to lower emissions.
• Streets with slower speeds enhance safety and comfort for pedestrians, cyclists, and other modes of travel.
• The increased safety and comfort encourage the use of more sustainable travel alternatives, reducing the overall reliance on driving.

Consideration and Challenges

• Modification of bylaws and installation of significant signage.
• Implementation of traffic calming measures may be required on some streets to enhance effectiveness.
• Requires further studies to assess the impacts on transit and emergency vehicles.
• Close collaboration with municipal partners to ensure cohesive implementation.

Additional Benefits

• Improve safety and comfort for all road users.
• Reduce collisions and traffic noise.
• Improve intersection signal operations for pedestrians.

*The City of Rossland B.C. lowered speed limits within the city to 30 km/h in 2015. A number of communities, particularly medium-sized cities in Alberta, have implemented city-wide speed limit reductions. Montreal sets residential street speed limits at 30 km/h with many arterials at 40 km/h.