SAN ANTONIO – District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito has proposed a new policy that would lower speed limits in San Antonio neighborhoods.
Alderete Gavito has proposed reducing the default speed limit in neighborhoods from 30 mph to 25 mph. Her Council Consideration Request would prioritize neighborhoods within a quarter-mile radius of schools, community centers, and parks.
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“Our neighborhoods should be places where people feel safe and comfortable, not where speeding cars put others at risk,” said Alderete Gavito.
Alderete Gavito referenced the National Traffic Safety Board in a news release, stating that lower speed limits decrease the chances of death.
Beyond safety, Alderete Gavito believes slower speeds would ease the burden on emergency responders because there would be fewer crashes and injuries.
There is also a potential economic benefit, as the safer people feel walking neighborhoods, the more people would do so. This could benefit local shops and small businesses.
“Investing in safety is also an investment in a stronger, more vibrant local economy,” Alderete Gavito said.
The proposal is backed by Councilmembers Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, Teri Castillo, John Courage, and Marc Whyte, who have signed on in support of the measure.