Previously, such speed reductions have been implemented in the city of Skellefteå and several other communities. Now, 40 km/h speed limit signs are set to be installed in more communities and some larger villages. This decision was made by the Urban Development Committee at their meeting on Thursday.
Thus, the speed will be reduced in Burträsk, Boliden, and Jörn. The speed will also be reduced to 40 km/h in Drängsmark, Ersmark, Kusmark, Medle, and Myckle.
The goal is to increase safety for vulnerable road users, achieve a calmer traffic pace with less noise, and reduce fuel consumption. The municipality is aware that a certain downside is the increase in travel time, but the advantages are considered more important.
When the matter was out for consultation, the police had no objections. The Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket), however, is highly critical. They have chosen to only comment on the state roads, namely the through roads that exist in the mentioned locations. In total, it concerns about 16 kilometers of road.
The Swedish Transport Administration's view is that travel time is important and points out that drivers are, in any case, obligated to adjust their speed according to road conditions.
"We cannot always dictate conditions for road users, as they must sometimes take some responsibility themselves, according to the law," writes the state agency.
Furthermore, the Swedish Transport Administration writes that speed limits that are deemed unjustified will not be respected by all, and thus can create a false sense of security for vulnerable road users.
The new speeds will be implemented from August 1, 2023.