25 MPH Limit Expanded in Downtown St. Charles in Effort to Curb Speeders

The Illinois Department of Transportation has agreed to lower the speed limit on Main Street/Route 64 to 25 MPH from 7th Street and 7th Avenue. This expands the current 25 MPH zone from 4th Street and 4th Avenue, city officials said Thursday.

In August, the St. Charles Police Department requested IDOT review the speed limit, according to a news release from the St. Charles Police Department.

Because Main Street is a state highway, it was necessary for IDOT to conduct an investigation into the speed limit reduction. That investigation mirrored a recent traffic study conducted by the St. Charles Police Department showing vehicles were consistently “moving faster through our downtown than the posted speed limit,” said Commander of the St. Charles Police Department Traffic Division Erik Mahan.

“By expanding the lower speed zone, it will ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists downtown,” Mahon said.

IDOT will install new speed limit signs.

“I am glad staff was able to work with IDOT to get the lower speed zone expanded on Main Street,” said Mayor Ray Rogina. “It’s important for people to feel safe as they walk or drive through our city and that traffic conditions are conducive to visiting our businesses. Our enforcement strategy and changing the mindset of drivers will be the keys to success on slowing speed on this and all city streets.”