The City of Foley has reduced the speed limit on Irwin Street to make the roadway accessible to state-approved low-speed vehicles while improving connections to nearby areas.
The Foley City Council gave final approval to an ordinance lowering the speed limit on Irwin Street from 40 mph to 35 mph.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the change allows low-speed vehicles to legally travel the roadway under Alabama law.
“That will make that street consistent with the requirements for these vehicles,” Hellmich said. “Any low-speed motor vehicle that’s approved by the state will be able to drive down it and go to some of the businesses without having to get on busier streets. That’s one of the purposes of doing this.”
Irwin Street extends from West Azalea Avenue to West Michigan Avenue, west of Alabama 59. The reduced speed limit will provide additional travel options for residents using low-speed vehicles and improve access to businesses along the corridor without requiring drivers to use higher-speed roadways.
Under Alabama law, low-speed vehicles are defined as vehicles with a maximum speed of 25 mph or less. These vehicles generally are not permitted on roads where they would impede the normal flow of traffic, and most cities prohibit their operation on streets with speed limits above 35 mph.
Municipalities may allow low-speed vehicles on qualifying streets if the vehicles meet state safety requirements, including headlights, taillights and turn signals. Drivers operating low-speed vehicles on city streets must also hold a valid driver’s license.
The speed limit change brings Irwin Street into compliance with those requirements, expanding the local street network available to low-speed vehicle operators while maintaining safe traffic conditions.