Press Release - Speed Change on Rhododendron Drive

Look for a lower speed limit on Rhododendron Drive between Lighthouse Way and Heceta Beach Road beginning Tuesday, February 26, 2019. Posted speed limit in this section of Rhododendron Drive will be reduced from 45 mph to 40 mph.

“Starting on February 26th, motorists will see a new ‘Speed Change Ahead’ sign and a new 40 mph sign on Rhododendron Drive in the area of Lighthouse Way as you travel north on Rhododendron. There will also be new signage traveling south after you turn onto Rhododendron Drive from Heceta Beach Road” stated Mike Miller, Florence Public Works Director. “The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) recently completed a speed zone investigation as requested by the City and has established a new speed zone of 40 mph on Rhododendron Drive between Heceta Beach Road and Lighthouse Way,” Miller said.

Per the speed zone investigation report, this area of Rhododendron Drive has a moderate residential density and culture with an average daily trip (ADT) of 2,980. The survey, which was completed at the end of May and first of June 2018 (while school was still in session) found that the 85th percentile speed to be 44 mph. Seventy two percent of the vehicles were traveling within the pace limits of 35-44 mph. There were 17 reported crashes between January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2016 with 10 crashes occurring in 2016. The determining factor for reducing this area from 45 mph to 40 mph was the crash rate.

Does a speed limit set at the 85th percentile speed satisfy everyone?

Society expects behavioral consistency among those driving on our streets and highways. But drivers' skills, attitudes, and time pressures vary greatly, as does their perception of an appropriate speed limit. Whatever the speed limit, some will consider it too high; others, too low. What you should expect is that, within the latitude provided in Oregon law, engineers set the most appropriate speed limits on the basis of thorough study and the application of sound traffic engineering principles.

Is it always safe to drive at the speed limit?

Speed limits are set for ideal conditions. Drivers need to respond to adverse conditions. Oregon vehicle law requires that motorists drive at a reasonable and prudent speed and with a regard for danger. Motorists must adjust their speed according to the existing vehicle and pedestrian traffic, road surface, lighting, and weather conditions. You should always maintain a safe speed.

For more details about how speed zones are established, call City of Florence Public Works at 541-997-4106.