North OC Times

Speed limits are changing across Anaheim, with more than 500 signs set to be updated from now through August. Drivers are advised to pay attention to speed limit signs and monitor their speed while driving in neighborhoods, around town, or commuting through Anaheim.

The adjustments come after a study examining actual driving speeds on city streets. The goal is to enhance safety, as higher speeds increase the risk of severe crashes resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.

No speed limits will be increased due to the study, although some will remain unchanged. The changes affect various roads throughout the city, including Harbor Boulevard, State College Boulevard, Brookhurst Street, Broadway, Weir Canyon Road, Kraemer Boulevard, Romneya Drive, and Olive Street.

A complete list of changes is available at Anaheim.net/speedlimits. Most new speed limits will decrease by 5 mph, with many shifting from 40 mph to 35 mph. Ten sections will see a reduction of 10 mph. A segment of Manchester Avenue in The Anaheim Resort will experience the largest drop, decreasing by 15 mph from 40 mph to 25 mph.

In total, 169 road sections will have reduced speed limits while 158 will remain unchanged. The city plans to replace 368 existing speed limit signs and install an additional 155 new ones.

Anaheim Police will assist in educating drivers about the new limits during the transition period by issuing warnings and using discretion. However, drivers who exceed the new limits may still receive tickets.

City officials emphasize that the changes are not intended as a revenue-generating measure from ticket fines. Revenue from traffic tickets does not cover the costs associated with enforcement such as officers' salaries and equipment expenses.

The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety in Anaheim's approximately 600 miles of roadway. In 2023, there were 21 traffic-related deaths—a figure down by 16 percent compared to the previous year.

To further enhance road safety, Anaheim has implemented measures such as protected left-turn lanes, high-visibility crosswalks, late-night traffic signals that stay red until approached by a vehicle, and vibrating grooves in roads for bike lane protection.

Alongside these preventive measures, education and enforcement remain key strategies for maintaining safe roads in Anaheim. More reminders about the new speed limits will be shared as the updated signs are installed.

___