Tucked away in one of the state’s recent budget bills lies the culmination of years of safe-streets advocacy: Sammy’s Law. This significant piece of legislation grants local governments the authority to lower city speed limits to 20 miles per hour or potentially even lower in specific cases.
It’s important to note that prior objections to Sammy’s Law’s inclusion in the budget were more about the policy itself than the principle of where it should be addressed. We applaud Governor Hochul for recognizing the importance of this law and championing its inclusion this year.
The constant repetition of the name “Sammy’s Law” should serve as a poignant reminder that this is not just a policy but a tribute to a real person, Sammy Cohen Eckstein. Sammy was a 12-year-old boy whose life was tragically cut short over a decade ago when he was struck by a van in Brooklyn. His story is a heartbreaking reminder of the countless children and individuals who have been injured or killed by reckless drivers simply trying to save a few minutes on their commute.
As New Yorkers, we take pride in being the only major city in the nation where the majority of the population does not own a car. This demonstrates that urban environments can be walkable and transit-rich, catering to both the working class and the affluent. While it’s impractical to eliminate cars and trucks from our streets, it’s crucial to prioritize safety by regulating vehicular traffic for the benefit of all.
The effectiveness of reducing speed limits to 20 miles per hour from the current 25 miles per hour is backed by extensive research. Studies have consistently shown that this intervention reduces the severity of collisions and casualties. While it cannot completely prevent road injuries and fatalities, it can make the difference between a near miss and a life-altering crash.
Furthermore, there is no logical reason why localities like New York City should not have control over something as fundamental as local speed limits. We wouldn’t expect the state to dictate trash pickup schedules or building inspection protocols, so why should it set speed limits? This law empowers cities to make these decisions based on their specific needs, which in this case is creating safer streets for everyone, including motorists themselves.
While Sammy’s Law is a significant step forward, it’s not the end of the road for safe streets advocacy. Nevertheless, it will undoubtedly allow more children to play outside without the fear of speeding cars on residential streets. As we celebrate this victory, let us continue to work towards making our streets safer for all.
