NYC Mayor to Lower School Zone Speed Limits to 15 MPH

New policy will use Sammy's Law to reduce speeds around schools 24/7

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:35pm

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Mayor Zohran Mamdani is set to announce a new policy that will lower speed limits to 15 mph across all of New York City's school zones, 24 hours a day. The move will utilize a 2024 law known as Sammy's Law, which allows the city to set speed limits below the state minimum in an effort to improve traffic safety around schools.

Why it matters

This policy change is aimed at protecting children and pedestrians near schools by significantly reducing vehicle speeds, which are a major factor in the severity of crashes. Sammy's Law was named after a 12-year-old boy who was fatally struck by a car in 2013, highlighting the need for stronger traffic safety measures around schools.

The details

Under the new policy, the 15 mph speed limit in school zones will go into effect after a 60-day public comment period. The lower limits can be enforced 24 hours a day, not just during school hours, in an effort to create a safer environment for students, parents, and the surrounding community.

  • The announcement is expected to be made on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 12:45 p.m.
  • Sammy's Law was passed in 2024, enabling the city to set speed limits below the state minimum in school zones.

The players

Mayor Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who is poised to implement the new 15 mph speed limit policy in school zones.

Sammy Cohen Eckstein

A 12-year-old boy who was fatally struck by a car in Prospect Park in 2013, leading to the passage of Sammy's Law.

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What they’re saying

“We must do everything in our power to protect our children and make our streets safer for all New Yorkers.”

— Mayor Zohran Mamdani (New York Daily News)

What’s next

After the 60-day public comment period, the new 15 mph speed limits in school zones will go into effect across New York City.

The takeaway

This policy change represents a significant step forward in improving traffic safety and protecting vulnerable road users, especially children, in school zones. By leveraging Sammy's Law to lower speed limits, the city is demonstrating a commitment to prioritizing pedestrian safety and creating a more livable, walkable environment for all New Yorkers.