(WHTM) — Legislation changing the default speed limit on Pennsylvania dirt roads got a unanimous “yes” from the House Transportation Committee.
There were 26 yes votes for State Rep. Christian Sappey’s (D-Chester) House Bill 2274, which would reduce the default speed limit from 55mph to 35mph for dirt and gravel roads.
Municipalities will still be able to post any speed limit below 35mph for dirt roads if HB 2274 is passed, according to Sappey’s memo.
Sappey also pointed out in her memo how Pennsylvania has about 23,000 miles of public dirt and gravel roads and how they can be costly to maintain. She also said about the dangers of driving at a high rate of speed on such roads.
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“Pennsylvania is home to approximately 23,000 miles of public dirt and gravel roads,” Sappey’s memo reads. “These roads are prone to erosion, dust, and significant wear from vehicular traffic, which makes them difficult and costly to maintain. Currently, unposted dirt and gravel roads have a default speed limit of 55 miles per hour. Traveling on a dirt or gravel road at this high rate of speed is a major safety concern, and potentially impacts proper vehicle operation, and vehicle and property damage from dust and loose road material.”
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The bill now heads to the House for consideration after passing the committee.
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