The new speed limit of 40 km/h takes effect from the Victoria Day weekend to Thanksgiving. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

need for speed

City testing lower speed limits at Departure Bay Beach

May 17, 2019 | 5:20 AM

NANAIMO — Drivers on one of Nanaimo’s busiest roads will now have to slow down when travelling through the scenic Departure Bay beach area.

A pilot project lowering the speed limit to 40 kilometres per hour at the beach begins on the Victoria Day holiday weekend and will last until Thanksgiving.

RCMP Cpl. Terry Crawford said police haven’t dealt with any injuries in the popular tourist spot but members have heard concerns about the growing number of cars, cyclists and people.

“It’s an awareness piece for people to remember at this time of year there’s going to be people out and playing, crossing the street and enjoying that destination area,” he said.

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Roughly 11,000 cars use Departure Bay Rd. every day. The City said both the road and the beach are becoming more popular every summer.

Manager of Transportation Jamie Rose clarified drivers are already advised to drive 30 kilometres per hour through Departure Bay Beach, due to a playground and park, but can’t be ticketed for driving between the advised speed limit and the actual posted limit.

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