Variable speed limits coming to I-90 in Lake County
Speeds will be reduced during inclement weather

GARFIELD HEIGHTS (Wednesday, November 15, 2017) - Variable speed limits will be put into effect this winter on the I-90 corridor between State Route 44 and State Route 528 in Lake County.

Crews have already begun the installation of sign poles and power cables for digital speed limit signs at 19 different locations, nine eastbound and 10 westbound, along the stretch of I-90. Permanent signage is in the fabrication process and is expected to be active in early 2018. In the meantime, portable speed limit signs similar to those used in work zones are in place. Motorists will be notified of speed limit changes by flashing lights.

The Ohio Department of Transportation will use various criteria to decide when to reduce the speed limit including pavement conditions, visibility, precipitation, vehicle incidents and traffic congestion. The speed limit will be reduced 10 mph as conditions warrant. For example, a moderate amount of precipitation would warrant a 60 mph speed limit, while blowing and drifting conditions with poor visibility could warrant a 50 mph speed limit. The lowest permitted speed limit is 30 mph, reserved for high-impact events such as a full road closure.

Studies show that high speed plays a prominent role in winter weather related crashes along the I-90 corridor. This data led to a broad speed limit reduction during the winter of 2016-2017. Recent legislation passed in the spring of 2017 now allows Ohio to temporarily reduce the speed limit of I-90 for inclement weather. Previously, temporary speed limits were only permitted for use within construction zones.

Pictured left is an image of what the permanent speed limit signs will look like along I-90 between SR 44 and SR 528. Pictured right is an image of what the temporary portable speed limit signs - currently in place - look like along I-90. Eight of these are in place and active until the permanent signage installation is complete.