What is the typical speed limit in municipal streets?

In many municipalities, the typical speed limit on municipal streets is set at 25 mph. This speed limit is established to enhance safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. It aims to provide a balance between allowing reasonable traffic flow while reducing the risk and severity of accidents that tend to occur at higher speeds, particularly in areas where there may be a greater number of interactions with pedestrians and cross traffic.

The selection of 25 mph also reflects a common standard adopted by various state laws and local ordinances, making it easy for drivers to understand and comply with speed regulations in urban environments. Municipalities often take into account factors like population density, residential areas, schools, and parks when establishing these limits to ensure community safety.

Other speed limits, such as those reflecting higher speeds, would generally be found on larger roads or highways where traffic flows faster and where the risks to pedestrians and local traffic are lower. In contrast, a lower limit like 20 mph might be suitable for particularly high pedestrian areas or school zones, but it is not the standard speed limit for all municipal streets.