Evanston Lowers Speed Limit To 25mph On Major Road

EVANSTON, IL — Evanston has lowered the speed limit on Emerson Street between McCormick Boulevard and Greenbay Road from 30 mph to 25 mph, according to the city.

The change is tied to Ordinance 50-O-26, which the City Council adopted on July 13. The city said the lower speed limit is intended to improve roadway safety for all users.

To prepare drivers for the change, the city said it began posting notice on July 24. Those signs were placed on the eastbound approach just east of McCormick Boulevard and on the westbound approach just west of the intersection of Asbury Avenue and Emerson Street. The city described the advance notice as part of an effort to make the transition smoother for motorists traveling through the corridor.

New permanent signs have been installed along the affected stretch of Emerson Street. Those signs include Speed Limit 25 mph plaques and “New Regulation” indicators. Red flags will be added to the newly installed signs to increase visibility and draw drivers' immediate attention to the new traffic control device.

The rollout also includes an initial education and awareness period from the Evanston Police Department. During that phase, police will focus on informing drivers about the reduced speed limit and encouraging compliance.