By Sarah Klein
Amended legislation would allow for reduced speed limits in school zones throughout Manitoba. (STAN MILOSEVIC / MANITOBAPHOTOS.COM)
The Manitoba government announced amendments to the Highway Traffic Act on Thursday that would lower the speed limits in school zones.
Infrastructure and Transportation Minister Steve Ashton said the amendments would allow municipalities, band councils and community councils to establish maximum speeds lower than 50 km/h.
“Every community wants to do everything it can to ensure the safety of young people as they travel to and from school,” Ashton said. “These changes would empower local governments to enact the most appropriate speed limits for schools in their communities.”
Local governments and stakeholders will be consulted by the province on the issue.
CAA Manitoba has long been a vocal supporter of reduced school zone speed limits.
“Children are our most vulnerable road users. They are unpredictable at the best of times,” said CAA spokesperson Liz Peters. “Other provinces made this move long ago, so today’s move to reduce the speed limits is a welcomed safety step.”
“Reducing speeds in school zones will have a larger spin off effect that will remind drivers to focus on the job before them — driving.”
