Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  The City of Foley has lowered the speed limit on Irwin Street to improve access for low-speed vehicles. The Foley City Council gave final approval to an ordinance implementing the change. The new limit is 35 miles per hour, down from 40 miles per hour. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the lower limit will allow low-speed vehicles to use the road without having to use busier streets. The change applies to Irwin Street, which runs from West Azalea Avenue to West Michigan Avenue, west of Alabama 59.

Mayor Hellmich explained the purpose of the change. "That will make that street consistent with the requirements for these vehicles," Hellmich said. "Any low-speed motor vehicle that's approved by the state will be able to drive down it and reach some of the businesses without having to use busier streets. That's one of the purposes of doing this."

Alabama law defines low-speed vehicles as those with a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour or less. State law prohibits those vehicles from operating on streets where they would slow traffic. Most cities do not permit low-speed vehicles on streets with a speed limit above 35 miles per hour.

Cities can allow low-speed vehicles on certain streets if the vehicles meet safety requirements. These requirements include functioning headlights, tail lights, and turn signals. Operators of low-speed vehicles on city streets must also hold a valid driver's license.

As more drivers choose low-speed vehicles, Foley officials said the reduced speed limit on Irwin Street would make more of the city accessible to those drivers. The change is expected to provide residents and visitors with a safer, less-congested route to local businesses.