People driving in parts of south Eugene should expect to slow down. Public Works crews on the week of January 6 will reduce the speed limit on both East and West Amazon drives to 30 miles per hour. The current speed limit is 35 miles per hour.
“Reducing the speed limit is all about safety,” said Reed Dunbar, Associate Planner with the City of Eugene. “We will have construction crews back out making improvements this summer. The slower speeds are safer for those crews. Plus, these are both active streets, with bike lanes, running trails, schools and parks nearby. Reducing speeds on our streets helps make everyone safer.”
This summer’s construction is part of the Amazon Active Corridor. Work includes the rebuilding of the soft-surface running trail along both sides of Amazon Creek and three new walking and biking bridges across the creek.
“The speed reduction is also consistent with several City goals, the 2035 Transportation System Plan and the City’s Vision Zero resolution – the goal of eliminating all deaths or serious injuries on the transportation system,” Dunbar said.
The lower speed limit is temporary. It will last until October 1, 2020. Staff will evaluate the conditions throughout the corridor while the speed limit is lowered. If warranted, they will work with the Oregon Department of Transportation to make permanent the 30 miles per hour speed limit.