NYC Lowers Speed Limit on Canal Street: Sammy's Law Takes Effect

NYC Lowers Speed Limit on Canal Street: Sammy's Law Takes Effect

New speed limit signs have been installed on Canal Street in Manhattan, reducing the speed limit to 20 mph as part of Sammy's Law.

Advocates say this move will help reduce crashes and improve survival rates for those involved in accidents.

What is Sammy's Law?

Sammy's Law was inspired by the tragic death of 12-year-old Sammy Cohen Eckstein, who was struck and killed by a driver in Park Slope, Brooklyn in 2013. Following his passing, his family led the fight for a slower citywide speed limit.

In April 2024, New York state lawmakers passed Sammy's Law, and Governor Kathy Hochul signed it into law in May. This legislation empowers the city to lower speed limits without approval from Albany.

The new speed limit applies to most streets with fewer than three lanes, reducing them from 25 mph to 20 mph. In some areas, the speed limit could even drop to 15 mph or lower. However, major thoroughfares in the outer boroughs are exempt.

Implementation of Sammy's Law

The first signs lowering the speed limit went up earlier this month on Prospect Park West. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is working on a rolling basis to implement these changes, and by the end of next year, the speed limit will be reduced at 250 locations. You can find a full list of proposed locations here.

The DOT is also on track to complete this year's goal of improving visibility at intersections in 1,000 locations across the city.