Tacoma’s Lower Speed Limits Take Effect

The city hopes reducing speed limits will help them achieve their Vision Zero pledge.

1 minute read

January 3, 2023, 12:00 PM PST

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


Black and white 25 mph speed limit sign on post with trees in background

Duntrune Studios / 25 mph

As of January 1, drivers in Tacoma, Washington will have to observe new, lower speed limits in the city’s residential areas and some business districts.

The speed limit was lowered to 20 miles per hour in residential zones and 25 miles per hour in “Sixth Avenue, Old Town, Lincoln and McKinley Hill” as part of the city’s effort to eliminate traffic deaths by 2035.

“An analysis of serious crashes in the city of Tacoma showed that while people who are struck while walking or biking only make up 6% of overall crashes, they represent 57% of fatalities and serious injuries.” Lower speed limits are shown to dramatically reduce the risk of death and serious injuries during a crash, yet American agencies have been slow to acknowledge the deadly consequences of high speed limits and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure.

Sunday, January 1, 2023 in King 5 News

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