Slow Down, Don’t Risk Disaster

December 2023 UpFront

As an Alderman for the City of St. Peters, I hear from many of our residents about different issues and concerns they may have. One major area of concern has been speeding through our neighborhoods and failing to stop at stop signs.
Speeding is a serious issue that affects us all. Residential roads have 25 mph speed limits. There’s a reason for that. The faster you go, the more difficult it gets to stop. Imagine a young child darting into the road, or a dog that got off the leash, or just someone not paying attention.

When you go just 5 mph more than the speed limit, your reaction time is less. And, the chances of injury and death go up.

According to the National Traffic Safety Board, speeding by just 5 mph over the 25 mph speed limit means that if you hit a pedestrian, there's a 2 in 5 chance that the person would die.
We all want to avoid disaster.

Here are some tips from the City’s Traffic Department on how to help slow speeds on your road:

• Drive slower! Be a leader and drive the speed limit. Drive at lower speeds and give yourself more time to react to the unexpected.
• Set the pace! Driving at the speed limit means that all those who follow you also will maintain your safe pace.
• Talk to your neighbors. When we look into speeding concerns, we often find that a number of people who live on the street are going over the speed limit. Discuss the importance of everyone following the speed limit and setting a good example.
• Be specific on concerns. The more information you’re able to provide about your concern, the more likely our staff will be able to find and address problems. Include in your concern the specific days, times and locations you believe speeding is a problem. You can file a concern using our E-Resident system at www.stpetersmo.net/e-resident; Or, you can call 636-477-6600, ext. 1225.

Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Let’s make 2024 a great—and safe—year for everyone!