City Council Approves Default Speed Limit Drop in Boston

The new default speed limit can go into effect as early as January 1, 2017

The Boston City Council approved a speed limit reduction Wednesday night that will reduce speed limits from 30 to 25 mph in areas where no street signs are posted.

The new default speed limit can go into effect as early as January 1, 2017.

Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh and City of Boston Transportation Commissioner Gina N. Fiandaca have backed the reduction to support Vision Zero, an effort that hopes to bring the number of traffic deaths and serious injuries to zero by 2030.

Pedestrians struck by drivers traveling at 25 mph are half as likely to die as those struck by drivers traveling at 30 mph, according to a state press release.

U.S. cities including New York City, Los Angeles and Washington D.C. have also set a 25 mph default speed limit.

Some smaller streets will be set to speeds less than 25 mph for drivers, while some larger streets will be set at or above 30 mph.

There will be a public outreach campaign to inform the public about the new default speed limit. Old 30 mph signs will be replaced with signs around important entry points into the city that will explain the new limit.

The fine for exceeding the speed limit in Massachusetts is $105, with another $10 added for every 10 mph over that limit.

Questions about the proposed speed limit change can be sent to visionzero@boston.gov.

Contact Us