Drivers in Oregon may soon see lower speed limits on parts of River Road and the Oregon Coast Highway. The Oregon Speed Zone Review Panel will discuss the changes on December 9. Eugene and Lane County want to reduce speeds on River Road from 40–45 mph down to 35 mph. North Bend and Coos Bay are asking for a drop from 45 mph to 35 mph on parts of the Oregon Coast Highway. The goal is to improve safety and reduce speeding, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation.
The Speed Zone Review Panel meets only a few times a year when needed. For their second 2025 meeting, after meeting in September, they will review proposed speed changes, hear from the Oregon Department of Transportation, local authorities, and possibly concerned citizens, and consider how the changes could affect traffic and safety. People can attend in person or online, and the Oregon Department of Transportation will provide support for anyone with disabilities who needs help participating.
Speed limits in Oregon aren’t chosen at random. Local road authorities ask the Oregon Department of Transportation to study an area and decide if the speed should change. If both sides agree, the new speed zone is set. If they don’t, the Speed Zone Review Panel reviews the evidence and testimony and makes the final decision. The panel also advises Oregon Department of Transportation and helps ensure the process is fair…