Let's Talk Policy Blog!
Title: Miami-Dade County Passes Resolution Directing Investigation into Lowering Speed Limits on County Residential and Park Roads
What: Miami-Dade County's Board of Commissioners has passed a resolution directing the County Mayor or designated official to conduct an investigation. This investigation aims to determine the reasonableness and feasibility of lowering the speed limit to 25 miles per hour on all County-maintained residential roads in the Unincorporated Municipal Service Area (UMSA), as well as on all County-maintained roads abutting parks and recreational centers in UMSA.
Why: The resolution is motivated by concerns over traffic congestion and safety in residential neighborhoods. Miami-Dade County has consistently faced traffic congestion issues, with increasing cut-through traffic posing dangers to residents. Lowering speed limits, where appropriate, is seen as a potential traffic calming measure to enhance pedestrian safety. Additionally, the presence of numerous parks and recreational centers operated by the County necessitates additional safety measures to protect pedestrians, especially children and the elderly.
What's Changing: This resolution represents a step by the Board to address traffic safety concerns. It builds upon a previous resolution, demonstrating the County's ongoing commitment to enhancing safety measures around parks and residential areas. The directive mandates an investigation into the feasibility of lowering speed limits and requires a written report within 120 days outlining existing speed limits, implementation plans, associated costs, and available funding sources.
Background: Miami-Dade County has been grappling with traffic congestion, particularly in residential neighborhoods, leading to safety concerns for pedestrians and residents. The Board previously initiated a Park Zones pilot program to address safety concerns around parks. This resolution further underscores the Board's commitment to pedestrian safety by directing an investigation into lowering speed limits on County-maintained roads. The aim is to ensure that speed limits align with pedestrian safety needs, mitigating potential risks associated with high-speed traffic in residential and park areas.
More details about this Miami-Dade County resolution (File Number: 240328) can be found in the following link: Legislative Matter (miamidade.gov)
Author:
Lorenzo Fuchs
P: 786-296-2284