Question: At least three arterials in Tacoma have had their speed limits reduced lately. I’ve seen new speed signs with orange flags attached on Sprague, Tyler and Orchard streets. These are all 5 mph reductions. Who knows how many other streets around town have been reduced, but I would like to know why – especially on Orchard Street, which seems very odd.
Mary A., Tacoma
Answer: You’re correct. The city lowered speed limits on several streets this summer – not only Sprague, Tyler and Orchard, but also parts of Tacoma Avenue, East 56th Street, East D Street and Pacific Avenue.
The reduction from 40 miles per hour to 35 mph on Orchard was to create a consistent speed limit from Sixth Avenue to the southern city limits – and to improve safety, said Chris Larson in the city’s Engineering Division.
“The 35 mph speed limit is consistent with urban arterials with numerous cross streets and driveways,” he said.
The other reductions resulted from requests by Sound Transit, the state Department of Transportation and various neighborhood groups interested in traffic calming, he said.
“Each speed limit revision included public outreach and involvement prior to implementation,” Larson said.
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