We got reports early this morning that some speed limit signs on I-295 from Portland to Gardiner had been changed from 65 to 70MPH. Later in the morning, Department of Transportation Commissioner David Bernhardt made it official. 

Speed limits are now raised from 65 MPH to 70MPH from North of Tukey's Bridge to Gardiner. It goes from 55 to 60 from the junction of I-295 and the Maine Turnpike near the Maine Mall in South Portland to the Portland city line. It remains at 50MPH through Portland from the Fore River to Tukey's Bridge. You'll also see speed limit changes on I-195 in Saco and Route 1 between Brunswick and Bath.

I have to admit I'm not a fan of this. I don't see the benefits of raising the speed limit. The majority of people already speed on the highway and this will only encourage them to drive even faster. That increases the likely hood of accidents and results in reduced fuel economy. Your tank of gas won't get you as far at 70 mph.

Why is everyone in such a hurry?

What do you think? Should the speed limit have been raised?

 

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