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Wisconsin Facility Posts 17.3 MPH Speed Limit to Make Drivers Look Twice

Traffic research says signs alone rarely cut speeds.

Overview

  • The Outagamie County Recycling and Solid Waste site in Appleton set a new 17.3 mph limit inside the facility and shared a photo of the sign on Facebook.
  • Officials said the precise number is meant to make drivers pause and break autopilot habits on familiar routes.
  • The site hosts haulers, contractors, and nearby residents on shared roads, and managers want people to slow down and stay alert for safety.
  • Reporters noted unanswered questions, including the previous limit, any past speed incidents, and whether officials will monitor or enforce the change.
  • A 2024 Minnesota study led by Gary Davis found drivers may not slow down right after a posted limit drops, and similar quirky limits have appeared elsewhere, including 8.2 mph in Colorado Springs and 24 mph at Nashville’s Opry Mills Mall.