The speed limit on Burma Road, which runs through Middletown and Portsmouth, will be lowered starting March 1, according to an announcement made by Naval Station Newport.
The new speed limit of 35 mph will take effect after nearly two years of the increased speed limit of 45 mph on most sections of the road. The change comes after an increase in motor vehicle accidents, animal-involved motor vehicle incidents, and traffic violations on the road, according to the announcement.
The speed limit is the subject of a public information campaign aimed at informing residents and drivers of the upcoming change. The Navy is working with local authorities to place mobile sign trailers on or near Burma Road to alert drivers of the new speed limit.
“It’s important that our military and civilian leaders work together to create a safer environment for all our community members and workforce who travel this roadway daily,” said Capt. Henry Roenke, installation commanding officer.
The Navy owns and maintains the public road, and while it does not take over any state or local jurisdiction’s obligation for law enforcement responsibilities, it is committed to public safety and ensuring the safety of service members and civilian visitors to the area.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
