Asheville, September 9, 2025
News Summary
The Asheville City Council has proposed a reduced speed limit of 25 mph on several city roads to enhance safety for cyclists and pedestrians. This decision comes after feedback from residents expressing concerns over high traffic speeds and their dangers. Local advocates have pushed for this change, and while it requires North Carolina Department of Transportation approval, it is part of a broader strategy to improve road safety in the city.
Asheville – The Asheville City Council has voted to implement reduced speed limits on several city roads to enhance safety for all road users, particularly cyclists and pedestrians. The new speed limit is proposed to be set at 25 miles per hour for the affected roads, which were identified based on community feedback emphasizing safety concerns.
Support for the speed limit reductions has been strong among residents who have expressed worries about the dangers posed by high traffic speeds, especially on busy corridors. Community members highlighted the need for safer conditions for cyclists and pedestrians, arguing that changing speed limits is a crucial step toward improving overall road safety.
Grant Godfrey, a resident of Asheville, noted the particularly hazardous conditions that cyclists face on certain roads where traffic speeds exceed safe levels. Cyclist John Sauvigne added that routes such as Hominy Creek Road and Craven Street are particularly concerning due to the combination of high vehicle speeds and cyclist traffic.
The recommendation for speed limit reductions was brought forth by local community members advocating for safer streets. City Council Member Bo Hess has reiterated the city’s ongoing commitment to creating a safe environment for all users of the road, whether they are driving, cycling, or walking.
However, before the proposed speed limit changes can be finalized, they must be approved by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), as most of the affected roads are maintained as state roads. NCDOT representative Randy Tritt explained that multiple levels of approval are necessary to carry out speed limit changes and that the process is stringent to ensure comprehensive safety assessments.
Currently, Asheville’s speed limits vary widely, ranging from as low as 10 mph to as high as 60 mph. The proposal to standardize a 25 mph speed limit in specific areas is part of a broader strategy to enhance safety in a city that has previously recorded high pedestrian fatality rates, being noted for leading North Carolina in per capita pedestrian deaths from 2008 to 2012. The city council is actively looking for ways to reduce these statistics as they evaluate effective approaches to road safety.
In addition to the specific speed limit proposals, the city council is contemplating implementing a uniform city-wide speed limit of 25 mph for all areas lacking posted limits. This move, if approved, would establish a clear standard for motorists, further solidifying Asheville’s commitment to road safety.
As the council proceeds with these discussions, the feedback from the community remains a vital component in shaping a safer vehicular environment in Asheville, prioritizing the protection and well-being of all road users.
FAQ
What are the proposed new speed limits in Asheville?
The Asheville City Council is proposing a new speed limit of 25 miles per hour for several city roads.
Why are speed limits being reduced?
The speed limits are being reduced primarily to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians, as many community members have raised concerns about high traffic speeds.
What roads are affected by the proposed speed limit changes?
The specific roads have not been detailed in the announcement, but they include several identified as hazardous for cyclists and pedestrians, including Hominy Creek Road and Craven Street.
Who needs to approve the speed limit changes?
The proposed speed limit changes must be approved by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) since most affected roads are state-maintained.
What is the current range of speed limits in Asheville?
Asheville’s current speed limits range from 10 mph to 60 mph, depending on the location.
Key Features of Proposed Speed Limit Reductions
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Speed Limit | 25 miles per hour |
| Targeted Roads | Several city roads, including Hominy Creek Road and Craven Street |
| Community Support | Strong resident backing due to safety concerns |
| Approval Required | NCDOT approval needed for most affected roads |
| Current Speed Limits | Ranges from 10 mph to 60 mph |
| Previous Safety Concerns | Asheville was noted for leading NC in pedestrian deaths from 2008 to 2012 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Roads Reduced Speed Limits
- WRAL: NC Lawmakers Eye Changes to Speed Limits
- WSOC: New Push to Raise Speed Limits on NC Highways
- WLOS: Speed Limits Changing in I-26 Work Zones
- WFMY: Asheville Approves Lower Speed Limits
- Wikipedia: Speed Limit
- Google Search: Asheville Speed Limits
- Google Scholar: Asheville Traffic Safety
- Google News: Asheville Speed Limit Changes
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
