US 97: Speed zone changes through Redmond

As requested by the City of Redmond, the Oregon Department of Transportation has completed a speed zone investigation for the south end of Redmond.  Per the findings, the existing 45 mph speed zone for US 97 at the south end of Redmond has been extended south to Yew Avenue. Additionally, the speed has been reduced to 35 mph 100 feet south of Veterans Way.  The posted speed remains 25 mph 50 feet south of South Canal Boulevard. New speed signs have been posted in the area.

“The new, reduced speed signs provide additional warning to motorists that they are entering an urban area with increased development, including projected increases in motorists and pedestrian activity,” said Dan Serpico, Senior Traffic Analyst for ODOT.

ODOT will continue to monitor the speeds through the area every two years to ensure that the proper speed limit is posted. Motorists are advised to slow down and be aware of the speed zone change in the area. Oregon State Police are increasing patrols in the Redmond area.

Speeding is one of the most prevalent factors contributing to traffic crashes. Speeding kills more than 200 and injures more than 8,000 people each year in Oregon.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the economic cost to society of speeding-related crashes is estimated to be $40.4 billion per year. In 2004, speeding was a contributing factor in 30 percent all fatal crashes, and 13,192 lives were lost in speeding-related crashes.