The Arizona Department of Transportation will raise to 65 mph the speed limit on Interstate 17 south of Peoria Avenue.

The change is expected to take effect by the end of October when ADOT replaces the current 55 mph signs along I-17 between the I-10 “Split” interchange and Peoria Avenue.

A study determined a 65 mph speed limit within the stretch of I-17 is appropriate since it more closely reflects the speed most people are currently driving and find reasonable, according to a release.

“This is likely to improve compliance, providing an effective tool for law enforcement,” state transportation officials said in the release. 

The evaluation also notes a 65-mph speed limit “can result in more drivers traveling closer to the same speed, which enhances safety.”

The study ADOT commissioned followed passage of Senate bill SB 1102, which calls for a minimum speed limit of 65 mph on any interstate highway in counties with a population of 3 million or more people.

Maricopa County is Arizona’s only county with a population topping 3 million.

A study determined a 65 mph speed limit within the stretch of I-17 is appropriate since it more closely reflects the speed most people are currently driving and find reasonable, according to a release.

The law stipulates a lower speed limit can be set if certain conditions are met, including:

• A lower limit is deemed necessary based on an independent engineering study or roadway assessment.
• The overall system capacity and mobility along the freeway will not be reduced.
• An opportunity for public input is provided.

The speed limit is at least 65 mph on all other stretches of interstate highways in the Phoenix area. 

Nearly 11,000 people submitted feedback to ADOT in a public survey. Approximately 75 percent of respondents supported raising the speed limit to 65 mph, according to ADOT.