FALLS CHURCH, Va. — The City of Falls Church is kicking off a campaign Thursday that will reduce speeds in hopes of increasing pedestrian safety in the area.
Officials unveiled 20 mph signage on Little Falls Street, outside of the community center, to launch the "20 is Plenty" campaign Thursday morning with speakers including police and members of City Council. As a result of the campaign, many residential streets will get new speed limit signs, lowering the limit to 20 mph from 25 mph. The City also says there will be yard signs, social media outreach, and more to accompany the change in speed.
"This effort supports walkability and pedestrian safety," the City of Falls Church says. "A speed reduction to 20 mph has life-changing results for pedestrians."
Crash data indicates that there is a large improvement in a pedestrian's rate of survival in the event of a crash when drivers are traveling at a rate of 20 mph as opposed to 25 mph.
The new 20 mph speed limit legally goes into effect on each street when the existing speed limit signs are replaced.
Residents can also grab a free yard sign to show support of the campaign and encourage others to drive safely in their neighborhood. Signs are available at the City Hall Permits Counter (East Wing, 1st Floor) during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.