IDOT Expands 25 MPH Zone in Downtown St. Charles

ST. CHARLES, IL - At the request of the St. Charles Police Department, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has reduced the speed limit on Main Street/IL Rt. 64 to 25 MPH between 7th Street & 7th Avenue. This expands the previous 25 MPH zone between 4th Street & 4th Avenue, according to a news release.

IDOT has installed new speed limit signs alerting drivers to this new speed zone.

Police requested the speed limit reduction in an effort to slow traffic as it travels through the heart of the downtown area in an effort to enhance safety of both pedestrians and motorists. The city encourages all motorists to Slow Down, Downtown, according to the news release.

“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.”

Because Main St./IL Rt. 64 is a state highway, it was necessary for IDOT to conduct an investigation into the recommendation for the speed limit reduction.

“IDOT’s results mirrored those of a 2016 traffic study conducted by the St. Charles Police Department which confirmed vehicles were consistently moving faster through our downtown than the posted speed limit,” said Commander of the St. Charles Police Department Traffic Division Jerry Gatlin. “By expanding the 25 MPH speed zone, it will ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists downtown.”

The City of St. Charles also petitioned IDOT to install speed displays at 7th Street and 7th Avenue, as well as on Route 31 entering the City. The displays are another way to remind and encourage drivers to follow the new speed limits.

Photo via the city of St. Charles