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Speed Limit Increases Likely to Spread from Valley to Rest of City
Photo: TheTruthAbout...via Flickr
By law, if police want to use radar guns on streets, cities must measure the average speed cars are going, regardless of posted limits, every 7 to 10 years. If they find that 15% of vehicles are illegally going over the speed limit, the city must increase the limit to allow for radar use. That's what's been happening for nearly a year in the Valley, angering residents and activists who have brought the issue to City Councilmembers who in turn are beginning to show disapproval of the system, too. "It's counterintuitive," said Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, who heads the city's transportation committee, via the Daily News . "We should have some local control." Now, the city may soon ask some state legislators to change the law, to give cities broader authority.
But until that happens, the Department of Transportation (LADOT) will have to continue to evaluate street speeds in order to let police use radar guns. At yesterday's City Council Transportation meeting, Councilman Bernard Parks questioned why all the focus has been on Valley, reported StreetsblogLA . An LADOT rep said it is just where they started and the rest of the city will be done in coming years.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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