NYC Starts Lowering Speed Limits: Sammy's Law Takes Effect in Brooklyn

NYC Starts Lowering Speed Limits to 20 MPH: Sammy's Law Takes Effect in Brooklyn

New York City began lowering the speed limit to 20 mph in parts of Brooklyn on Wednesday, marking the first step in implementing Sammy's Law. This law, named after 12-year-old Sammy Eckstein, who was tragically killed by a car in 2013, allows the city to set its own speed limits below the current 25 mph.

The change is being implemented at the corner along Prospect Park West, where Sammy was killed. His family has been advocating for the law ever since, hoping to prevent similar tragedies from happening.

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed Sammy's Law into law in May. The law aims to improve road safety and reduce pedestrian fatalities.

Sammy's Family Celebrates the Life-Saving Change

Sammy's family was present as the 25 mph sign was replaced with the new 20 mph speed limit. His father, Gary Eckstein, expressed gratitude for the change, stating that "lower speeds save lives. It's as simple as that."

DOT Plans to Lower More Speed Limits Citywide

The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) plans to institute a Regional Slow Zone in each borough, hopefully by the end of the year. The DOT previously announced plans to ultimately reduce speed limits at 250 locations, focusing on roads near schools and open or shared streets.

You can find the full list of proposed locations here.