The Reflector reported the Battle Ground Police Chief's candid comments regarding the strain on resources for enforcing the new 20 mph speed limit in neighborhoods. The department’s dedication to traffic safety on major thoroughfares is vital. However, reporting by The Reflector that focuses solely on the critical reduction through the lens of enforcement limitations misses the core purpose and long-term vision of this measure: establishing a new, safer community norm that saves lives.
The goal is not to create an enforcement challenge but to achieve a fundamental shift in driver behavior in residential neighborhoods. The number of tickets issued does not accurately measure the true success of this 20 mph limit, but rather by fewer accidents, fewer injuries, and, yes, lives saved. As the Chief noted, the "Three E's" of traffic safety are Engineering, Education, and Enforcement. This speed limit change is a powerful educational tool, signaling that our neighborhood streets are places for people, children, cyclists, and the elderly, not swift corridors to the main streets. Residents won't slow down overnight; however, studies show that average speeds do fall, and the percentage of drivers going excessively fast decreases when limits are reduced. This reduction works in concert with other tools, such as traffic calming measures and the police department’s continued presence, to foster a collective community commitment to slowing down.
The Life-Saving Difference is Dramatic. The most compelling justification for the 20 mph limit is the vastly improved chance of survival for pedestrians struck by a vehicle. This is a measure of public health and safety that stands on its own, regardless of daily enforcement capacity. At 20 mph it is five percent fatality or serious injury. At 25 mph it is 18 percent fatality or serious injury. At 30 mph it is 45 percent fatality!
Every mile-per-hour reduction drastically improves driver reaction times, reducing the kinetic energy transferred in a crash. This means our neighborhoods are significantly safer for our most vulnerable residents immediately. Beyond enforcement, the Community benefits from the direct reduction in severity of crashes as seen in cities around the PNW. Seattle saw a 22 percent crash reduction after lowering speed.
The new limit brings quieter neighborhoods. Safer streets encourage more residents to walk and bike. Slower streets are more conducive to social interaction and a stronger sense of community.
In summary, the 20 mph neighborhood speed limit is a proactive investment in public health, grounded in data that shows a clear benefit in saving lives. While the police department's resource constraints are real, enforcement is a tool, but it is not a prerequisite for success. Over time, through education and our community's shared commitment, Battle Ground’s residential streets will naturally become slower, safer, and more livable. Believe in our residents that they will embrace this opportunity to prioritize safety over a few extra seconds on their commutes through the neighborhoods.
Randy Ahmann
Battle Ground
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