Student government convinced the city of Memphis to lower the speed limit on Central Avenue to 35 miles per hour. While this is five miles slower than before winter break, it is 10 miles faster than what student senators were hoping.
Students will have to drive a little slower when traveling on Central Avenue. The speed limit on the busy street, between Highland and South Goodlett Street, was lowered to 35 miles per hour during the winter break.
David Knowles, president of the Student Government Association, said students demanded the lower speeds.
“It was an initiative suggested by them because there is such a high volume of students running through that area between class times,†he said. “We are looking out for their well-being.â€
While the new speed limit is five miles lower than before winter break, most student senators wanted cars on Central to drive even slower.
A student senate bill passed in November petitioned the City of Memphis to change the speed limit to 25 miles per hour. This marks the most recent change to the section of Central Avenue which divides the northern part of the University of Memphis main campus.
In the last two years, a fence was built along the busy avenue to prevent jaywalking. A median replaced Central’s left turn lane. These changes, which where hotly debated for more than a decaded before implemented, cost the state and city around $1.4 million.
Knowles believes these changes are a win for both the students and the motorists who travel through Central. “We felt it was a good idea to lower it to make it a bit easier for drivers to stop in the event that someone is trying to cross,†he said.
Associate Dean of Student Leadership and Involvement, Justin Lawhead agreed with Knowles’ statement. “You don’t want kids trying to dodge traffic on their way to class,†he said. “Since there is a large number of students running through that area, it only makes since to lower it. Whatever helps safety and lowers potential mishaps is a plus in my mind.â€
The changes have been well received by some students. Marcus Swearengen, Art major at the University of Memphis, felt the changes were necessary.
“Even though I’m not in that area all the time, it’s still great they lowered it,†he said. “I know a lot of friends that always complain about almost getting hit trying to cross the street.â€
Marquis McKinney, 21, was one the complaining students Swearengen is referring to.
“To quote the great American philosopher, LeBron James, after he won his first title, “Its about damn time,†he said. “Every time I cross on Central I feel like I’m dancing with the grim reaper. Those changes couldn’t come fast enough honestly. I wouldn’t mind if they lowered it some more.â€
