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With New State Law, Boston Mayor Seeks Lower Speed Limit

BOSTON (AP) — Boston Mayor Marty Walsh hopes a new state law will allow his administration to lower speed limits in parts of the city.

The Democrat said in a statement Thursday that he plans to ask the City Council to lower the "default" speed limit from 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour.

A municipal modernization bill recently signed into law by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker included a provision authorizing cities and towns to establish a 25-mile-per-hour speed limit on local roadways that go through densely-populated areas or business districts.

Previously, the state set a 30-mile-per-hour speed limit for those types of roads, and municipalities needed state approval to make changes.

Walsh says lower speed limits make streets safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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