SE Valley Times

Tempe seeking public input on proposed speed limit changes

Tempe, AZ: The City of Tempe is exploring changes to speed limits on four roadways: Mill Avenue, College Avenue, First Street, and Southern Avenue. The proposed adjustments aim to match the function of the roadway and better reflect the current character of these corridors.

"This initiative focuses on aligning speed limits with the surrounding development along these roadways," said Eric Iwersen, Transportation and Sustainability Director for the City of Tempe. "Many areas have seen significant changes over time, and these adjustments aim to 'right-size' speeds for current conditions."

Proposed Changes:

Mill Avenue: Reduce speed limit from 45 mph to 35 mph at the north end, matching the speed limit over the Town Lake bridge. Additionally, reduce the speed limit from 40 mph to 35 mph south of University Drive to Broadway Road.

College Avenue: Reduce speed limit from 35 mph to 30 mph from the north City limit to Curry Road.

First Street: Reduce speed limit from 35 mph to 30 mph from Ash Avenue to the west end.

Southern Avenue: Reduce speed limit from 45 mph to 40 mph from 48th Street to the railroad tracks, creating a consistent speed zone across Tempe.

The City encourages residents to participate in the following:

Public Meetings:

- Virtual Meeting: Tuesday, May 15, 2024, at noon via Zoom.

- In-Person Meeting: Tuesday, May 15, 2024, at 6:00 pm, Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Rd.

- Public Comment Period: May 15 – May 29, 2024 at tempe.gov/SpeedLimits

Project Timeline:

- May 2: Council Presentation - COMPLETE

- May 15: Public Meetings

- June 11: Transportation Commission Meeting

- June 20: Public Comments Presented to Council

Following Council direction, the process will include two public hearings before final implementation.

For more information, please visit tempe.gov/speedlimits.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mary Kate Nacke, Public Information Officer

marykate_nacke@tempe.gov

480-521-5002