City committee hits the brakes on reduced speeds on residential streets

Saskatoon’s transportation committee has voted to not proceed with reducing speed limits in the city.

The motion to see speed limits on local and collector streets in Saskatoon reduced from 50 kilometres per hour to 40 km/h was defeated 4-2 Tuesday during a Saskatoon planning committee and transportation meeting.

The motion was initially put forward to improve both the perception of and actual safety in Saskatoon, according to City of Saskatoon transportation director Jay Magus.

While some aspects of the speed recommendations will still be explored — including reduced speeds around playgrounds and areas with more seniors — widespread 40 km/h reductions will not proceed to city council.

A different motion received unanimous support, however.

David Kirton, counsellor for Ward 3, introduced a motion to explore and implement a speed watch program in the city. The program involves the use of portable radar equipment operated by volunteers as a way of enforcing speed limits in residential areas.

The program has seen some success in other Canadian cities and in the United Kingdom.

Costs and funding for the option will be reviewed with the plan, and a pilot program may be put in place in the future.