Grand Junction’s Unexpected Reaction To Speed Reduction On 12th Street

There has been a change on 12th Street and Grand Junction's reaction is surprising.

Safety Concerns on 12th Street

Safety concerns have prompted the city of Grand Junction to reduce the speed limit between North Avenue and Orchard Avenue on 12th Street. The speed limit has gone from 35 mph to 30 mph and folks don't seem to be upset about it. That is one of the things that is surprising.

Based upon the reaction we got from listeners, people generally aren't upset they have to go a little slower for a few blocks, but they definitely have some opinions. You can read some of the comments below.

Get our free mobile app

The Perfect Solution?

The street that goes past Colorado Mesa University was already made pedestrian-friendly when crosswalks with pedestrian-activated flashing lights were installed years ago. When someone needs to cross they hit the button, the light begins to flash as a signal to motorists to stop and let the pedestrians cross. Seemed like the perfect solution at the time.

Who Is At Fault?

I'm not aware of accidents that have happened at these pedestrian crossings, however, our listeners indicate there have been a lot of close calls. A lot of the blame is being placed on pedestrians, however, some responses indicate both sides are at fault. I'm shocked and disturbed, though, that the students have been called stupid. It sounds like we are lumping them all together into a single solitary stereotype, and that is unfair.

Are motorists not yielding to pedestrians? Are pedestrians walking across the street in front of approaching vehicles, assuming they see the flashing lights and are able to safely stop in time? I think the speed limit reduction is intended to make it easier for motorists to stop and pedestrians cross safely. And as I have state previously, driving slower for a few blocks isn't going to have a significant impact on motorists.