LAKELAND, Fla. — Residents in Lakeland will see new speed limit signs around Lake Morton by next week after city officials decreased the limit in an effort to combat distracted drivers.
Officials took action after seven of the city's famous swans and a pedestrian were hit by distracted drivers.
RECOMMENDED: City of Lakeland to combat distracted driving around Lake Morton to protect swans
City officials say the new speed limit with be 20 mph, a 5 mph decrease from the original limit.
“A number of incidents have taken place within a four week time period that involved distracted drivers. Five swans were killed but most importantly, a pedestrian was struck by a vehicle and that person was severely injured,” Angelo Rao, Manager of Traffic Operations said.
“The City recently met with the Lake Morton Neighborhood Association and we launched a survey tool to help gain insight on possible solutions to enhance the safety for all of our Lake Morton users. One of the ideas generated from our neighborhood meeting was reducing the posted speed limit,” Rao continued.
The City of Lakeland is looking for citizen input on ways to enhance the safety and mobility for all roadway users on Lake Morton Drive. Citizen Perspectives is a survey tool developed by City of Lakeland staff so users can review the issue, study suggested safety enhancements and share opinions on possible solutions.
The survey is open for residents to provide feedback through October 7, officials say.
