Mile-square Hoboken may be located halfway between the Holland and Lincoln tunnels, yet the city has more than 100 crossroads, and more than 60,000 people regularly go through them. On Thursday morning, the city made an announcement lowering the posted speed limit from 25 to 20 miles per hour.
An ordinance enabling the decrease was approved by the City Council in a final 8-0 vote during its meeting on Wednesday night, and Mayor Ravi Bhalla then signed it into law.
According to the city, the ordinance aims to provide safer streets for all users and types of mobility.
The city will install speed radar signs at Hoboken’s entrances, new 20 MPH speed restriction signs with additional plaque markers, and 20 MPH pavement markings at certain areas over the coming weeks.
The city’s Vision Zero Action Plan, which seeks to end all traffic-related fatalities and injuries by 2030, includes a decreased speed restriction.
A number of national and local news sources, including Curbed, recently emphasized the fact that Hoboken has not experienced a pedestrian fatality as a result of a motor vehicle incident in four years. Curbed also mentioned other Vision Zero programs that improve drivers’ and walkers’ visibility.
Although there have been no fatalities in the last few years, there are still frequent pedestrian accidents at junctions, particularly lately.
According to studies, the likelihood that a pedestrian may get a serious injury or pass away climbs from around 25% when hit by a vehicle moving at 20 MPH to over 50% when struck by a vehicle moving at 30 MPH, according to the city.
According to the city, various more activities will be implemented in addition to the 20 MPH speed restriction in order to better inform drivers and increase compliance rates.
The newest promise we are making to make our roadways safer for cars, bikers, and pedestrians is to lower the citywide speed limit, according to Bhalla. “Even if driving across Hoboken could take a few additional seconds, that extra time very well could end up saving the life of a youngster or an elderly person.”
Added he, “The trade-off is unquestionably worthwhile, and it is the most recent effort we are doing to eradicate all traffic-related injuries by 2030, as a parent of two kids who walk our streets every day. We appreciate the county’s collaboration with us on this life-saving project.
Tom DeGise, the executive of Hudson County, stated, “Driving slower isn’t always simpler to do—but it is the smartest and safest thing to do.
According to Council President Michael Russo, “if this legislation saves just one life or prevents one major injury, then it is well worth it.”
“The 20 MPH speed limit decrease has been a key priority since the Vision Zero Action Plan was established,” said Council Vice President Emily Jabbour. “I have had the honor of working on the Hoboken Vision Zero Task Force since it was created three years ago. “Pedestrian safety is vital for a mile square city where citizens of all ages should feel secure riding a bike, going to work, or commuting each day.”
“I am appreciative for the leadership of Transportation Director Ryan Sharp and City Engineer Olga Garcia who worked with a variety of partners to make this happen, and I’m especially grateful to Hudson County for their assistance,” Jabbour continued.
Numerous county roads go through the town of Hoboken.
The 4th Ward Councilman Ruben Ramos said, “We are pleased to work with the transportation panel on establishing this legislation and look forward to adequate enforcement from law enforcement to guarantee lower speeds and make this move a benefit for our citizens.”
