Lowering Residential Speed Limits

Dear Neighbors,

According to crash data, nearly 75% of traffic deaths in Chicago involve drivers traveling at high speeds. Here in the 48th Ward, 40% of households do not own a car; however, we are a cut-through community, where impatient drivers often commuting at high speeds come through our neighborhoods. But our streets aren’t just places to move through. They belong to all of us.  

My team and I have made improvements to over 65 intersections in the 48th ward. These include safer crosswalks, neighborhood greenways, pedestrian improvements, bike infrastructure, and safer street designs; all proven measures that help save lives.  

As part of our continued efforts to prevent traffic fatalities, I am introducing a series of ordinances to lower residential speed limits across the 48th ward from 25 to 20 miles per hour (mph). The difference between 25 mph and 20 mph is significant. Evidence proves that drivers are more likely and quickly able to come to a complete stop when going 20 mph, greatly reducing the chance for collisions. In terms of crashes, pedestrian survival rates are up to 90% when drivers go 20 mph.

This change is part of the 48th Ward’s commitment to Vision Zero, the goal of no traffic-related deaths or severe injuries. According to the city’s latest traffic crash study, the 48th ward had the fewest traffic fatalities and serious injuries in Chicago in 2025. This marks our third consecutive year with zero traffic fatalities in the ward. This didn’t happen by chance. We made a choice to believe that every crash is preventable and that every person deserves to get home safely. Investing in safe streets works.

Yours in Community,

 Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth

48th Ward Alderwoman