Officials in Eugene have introduced new speed limit reductions and traffic calming measures on several residential streets in an effort to improve safety for pedestrians and drivers.
The changes affect Polk Street, Oak Patch Road, Elmira Road and Maple Street. New speed limit signs have already been installed in some areas, with the remaining updates expected to be completed later this week.
According to the Eugene Public Works Department, the streets are returning to the typical residential speed limit of 25 miles per hour. Public affairs manager Marion Suitor Barnes said that speed better reflects how traffic already moves through those neighborhoods.
Officials noted that larger, busier roads in the city will not see lower speed limits because of high traffic volumes. Instead, the city is focusing on traffic calming strategies such as protected crosswalks, bike lanes and wider sidewalks.
Residents have expressed mixed reactions to the changes. Some believe the lower speeds will help protect pedestrians, cyclists and pets, while others worry drivers may ignore the limits or become more impatient.
The Oregon Department of Transportation reviewed crash data before approving the changes. City officials expect the upcoming 2025 crash report to show improvements after what they described as a significant year for traffic safety efforts in 2024.
Some community members say the main issue is not speed but distracted driving and poorly synchronized traffic lights that create congestion and encourage risky driving behavior.
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