Michigan drivers could soon be able to legally put the pedal to the metal. A package of bills is now in the full House for consideration after passing the House of Transportation committee on Tuesday.
These bills would raise the speed limit on open stretches of highway to 75 and possibly 80 mph. But, if you’re driving around metro Detroit, pump your brakes. Speed limits here probably aren’t going to change.
“I think a lot of factors come into play. You need to look at the geometrics of the road, you need to look at the way the roadway is designed and these are things a study can ultimately determine," says Rob Morosi, MDOT spokesman.
Other bills in the package would change speeds on state trunk lines, gravel roads and in school zones. If passed, the Michigan Department of Transportation and Michigan State Police would work together to identify which freeways could handle a higher speed limit. But the most important thing is safety.
"Our number one priority is safety. We strive to balance that number one priority with the efficient flow of commerce and people," adds Morosi.
These bills still have to go through the legislative process but if they are approved, Michigan could see faster speed limits later this year.
