Mayor Roger Morrill would like to see the speed limit in Athabasca reduced to 40 kilometres an hour, but without an outcry from the community, the issue is moot.
Until the public wants the speed limits changed, they will remain at 50 km/h.
There are many different opinions among the councillors and most wanted to see the public thoroughly educated about what their options are.
The City of Edmonton completed a speed reduction pilot program in 2010 and as part of the community perception survey “70 per cent indicated the importance of community involvement and support for the success of the pilot project in improving traffic safety in their community.”
Only 48 per cent of people thought the speed limit reduction lowered speeds. Overall the vehicle operating speeds were reduced by an average of 7 per cent.
These facts were taken into account at Athabasca’s recent town council meeting, and councillors wanted community input.
“I find it hard to limit mobility of residents because of a few complaints,” said councillor George Hawryluk.
Several Hees Estates’ residents complained at a public meeting that speeding in their community was dangerous, and they would like to see something done about it. Morrill listened to those concerns and brought them to council.
A motion to research the cost of speed bumps in Hees Estates was defeated.
Councillor Paula Evans would like to see the speed limit stay the same with more law enforcement.
The cost of reducing speed limits in town would include signage to warn drivers, because a 40 km/h speed limit isn’t standard.
