20 is Plenty
Slower is Safer
Salt Lake City has adopted a default 20 mph neighborhood speed limit. Now it’s time for our streets to be designed to encourage slower speeds everywhere.
The risk of death or serious injury increases significantly with higher vehicle speeds.
— AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 2011.
The Research is Clear.
This is not a new concept. Slower speeds make streets safer and communities stronger.
Fewer Deaths.
When implemented on a wide scale without traffic calming, 20 mph speed limits reduce casualties by 22%.
Lower Speeds.
Portland State University researchers found a significant decrease in vehicles traveling faster than 30 mph after adoption.
— Portland State University, 2020
Safer Streets.
“It is well-established that higher motor vehicle speeds result in more serious outcomes for the vulnerable road user, and the severity of an injury exponentially increases with speeds.”
— Brian C. Tefft, 2013, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
Stronger City.
The World Health Organization recommends 20 mph limits as best practice in residential areas.
— W.H.O., 2017, ‘Managing Speed’
We did it.
A simple change of two words.
“On all streets and at all places, the prima facie speed limit shall be twenty (20) miles per hour, except as otherwise provided in subsection A of this section, or in such other streets or places as otherwise posted or marked as directed by the city transportation engineer.” — Salt Lake City Ordinance 12.36.020.B — Speed Limits
Thank you to our partners.
The following groups have added their support to the call for a 20 mph default speed limit.
Show Your Support.
This is an important change. Show city leaders you want them to lead on this issue by adopting policy that slows speeds on streets where people live, work, play, shop or attend school or worship. Request your 20 is Plenty street sign today by sending an email to info@buildingsaltlake.com.
We’re asking for a suggested $5 donation to support the campaign.
