Source: Nieuws Fietsberaad

Interim study results have been published following the city’s reduction of the speed limit in certain areas from 50km/h to 30km/h in December 2023

Since Amsterdam’s introduction of this speed limit, the average speed on designated roads has decreased by 5%, with the majority of its residents supporting the new measure, according to an interim study by the city. Six months after the new speed limit was implemented on various major streets, Amsterdam officials have reported a notable reduction in vehicle speed, marking progress in the city’s goal to improve road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents.

The study compared traffic speeds from the first half of 2024 to the same period in 2023. On roads where the speed limit was reduced to 30 km/h, the average speed fell to 20 km/h, considering all traffic activities, including acceleration, braking, and waiting at traffic signals. In a focused sample of 24 road sections without regular traffic stops, speeds dropped by 10%, from 40 km/h to 36 km/h. Amsterdam’s alderman for traffic, Melanie van der Horst, expressed optimism about the findings. “These results confirm what we already expected: there is quieter driving in traffic, but not everyone still sticks to the speed limit. Yet 10 percent slower is good news, because every kilometer slower is a gain for road safety,” she said.

Interestingly, the study also noted a 4% reduction in average speed on roads where the speed limit remained 50 km/h. The municipality has not determined whether this is due to increased congestion, widespread citywide adherence to slower driving, or potential driver confusion regarding speed limits on specific roads.

Public transportation services also experienced minor delays, with 26 bus and tram lines reporting slight increases in travel times of one to three minutes. However, these delays were less significant than originally forecasted by the GVB, Amsterdam’s public transport operator.

In a survey conducted among 1,500 residents, 817 responses revealed strong public support for the measure, with 60% of participants expressing positive views, and even higher among non-car owners, who showed a 75% approval rate. Respondents cited improved safety and a calmer road environment as key benefits. Conversely, critics highlighted issues with drivers not adhering to the new speed limit and frustrations over scooters and e-bikes frequently traveling faster than cars. Some also questioned the suitability of the 30 km/h limit on certain road designs.

The city has initiated efforts to improve compliance, including a pilot program by the Public Prosecution Service aimed at enforcing the 30 km/h limit. In addition, Amsterdam has launched a public awareness campaign, “We Do 30 for Each Other,” to encourage adherence to the speed limit. Road line adjustments are also underway to further reinforce the changes.

A full evaluation is scheduled for next year to assess the measure’s impact on road safety, quality of life, and emergency response times, providing more comprehensive data on Amsterdam’s shift toward a slower, safer urban environment.