In a recent meeting of the South Pasadena Public Works Infrastructure Commission, city officials engaged in a detailed discussion about the complexities of setting speed limits on local streets. The atmosphere was charged with concern as commissioners examined the implications of a new state law, AB 43, which grants local authorities more flexibility in adjusting speed limits based on traffic data.

The conversation began with a focus on the city’s authority to lower speed limits, particularly on three streets where the proposed limit would drop to 25 miles per hour. One commissioner expressed apprehension, noting that while the city has the power to make these changes, it must also adhere to specific guidelines outlined in the legislation. The law allows for a reduction of up to five miles per hour from the current limit, but it requires careful consideration of factors such as accident data, roadway conditions, and pedestrian safety.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the implementation of AB 43 is not straightforward. Although the law took effect in January 2022, its full application has been delayed until mid-2024, leaving local authorities in a gray area regarding speed limit adjustments. The commission highlighted the need for Caltrans to define "high injury streets" and other critical terms in the upcoming revision of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), expected in 2025 or 2026.

Commissioners also acknowledged the limitations of their current study, which only accounted for 58 street segments in South Pasadena. This raised concerns about whether the analysis sufficiently represented the community's diverse traffic conditions. One commissioner pointed out that residents frequently voice concerns about speed limits on streets not included in the study, emphasizing the need for a broader assessment.

In response to these concerns, the commission discussed the possibility of conducting additional studies to evaluate traffic patterns and safety measures on streets like Ramona, which had been mentioned by a resident during public comments. However, they clarified that any changes to speed limits would require a thorough analysis and could not be made arbitrarily.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners recognized the importance of balancing safety with the need for effective traffic management. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local authorities in navigating new legislation while ensuring the safety and well-being of South Pasadena residents. The outcome of these deliberations will likely shape the future of traffic regulations in the city, as officials strive to create a safer environment for all road users.