Fuck this. Speed limits are already ridiculously low. Studies show speed limits have a negligible impact on the speeds of highway drivers, who consistently drive around 70 mph throughout the country regardless of limits. This is consistent with my observations as a driver, and I can only assume speed limits are also routinely disregarded on neighborhood streets as well - if people aren't slowing down where there's enforcement, why would they slow down anywhere else?
What does make people slow down is speed bumps, optical illusions (look it up!), roads in bad repair, and winding roads. While the last one can only be used when designing new neighborhoods, the others might be a better start. I for one resent drivers getting milked for fines and I'm sick of Sam Adams' hard-on for making life difficult for drivers.
Drivers who are prone to hitting pedestrians and cyclists are probably just as prone to do so regardless of what the speed limit sign at that block tells them. But, you know, I'm sure this decision has everything to do with public safety, and nothing at all to do with finances as a way for the City to generate revenue by handing out more speeding tickets due to lower speed limits.
Bunch of grumpy motorists on this thread. If you don't like prioritizing walking and cycling above driving, move to Beaverton already. There you will find your paradise.
What does make people slow down is speed bumps, optical illusions (look it up!), roads in bad repair, and winding roads. While the last one can only be used when designing new neighborhoods, the others might be a better start. I for one resent drivers getting milked for fines and I'm sick of Sam Adams' hard-on for making life difficult for drivers.