Evanston reduced speed limits on Ridge Avenue to 25 mph in order to reduce the number of crashes.

According to a news release Friday, the city reduced the speed limit on Ridge Avenue from Howard to Emerson Streets, down from 30 mph. The decision came in order to “reduce vehicle crashes and improve safety for all roadway users,” according to the release.

Aldermen discussed safety improvements at an Administration and Public Works Committee meeting on Jan. 22 after recognizing a spike in collisions along the corridor.

According to a presentation by engineering and capital planning bureau chief Lara Biggs, the number of collisions on Ridge Avenue jumped to 154 last year. This is about 10 more crashes than in previous years.

The city’s public work agency has completed other measures including tree trimming to increase visibility. The city also plans on completing signal operational changes at the intersection of Ridge Avenue and Lake Street in the spring.

The Evanston Police Department will also continue to enforce safety measures like speeding, disobeying traffic regulations, distracted driving, and seat belt requirements, according to the release.

The city will begin to install signs on Feb. 27 indicating the new speed limit.

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