Interoffice Memorandum
DATE: June 11, 2026
TO: Mayor Jerry L. Demings and County Commissioners
THROUGH: N/A
FROM: Joseph C. Kunkel, P.E., Director, Public Works Department
CONTACT: Humberto L. Castillero, P.E., PTOE, Manager
PHONE: (407) 836-7891
DIVISION: Traffic Engineering Division
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approval to decrease the speed limit on Kirby Smith Road from Narcoossee Road to North of N. Shore Golf Club Blvd from 40 mph to 30 mph. District 4. (Traffic Engineering Division)
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PROJECT: N/A
PURPOSE:
Concerned citizens have requested Orange County to review the posted speed along Kirby Smith Road from Narcoossee Road to N Shore Golf Club Blvd. They expressed that the posted speed of 40 mph is too high and presents a safety risk.
Vehicular/pedestrian safety, accident statistics, current and future density, corridor speed continuity and roadside developments were the primary considerations for a speed reduction analysis along the Kirby Smith Road corridor. The Florida Department of Transportation uses a Context Sensitive Road classification when determining Target Speed. This is the speed at which vehicles should operate on a thoroughfare in a specific context, consistent with the level of multi-modal activity generated by adjacent land uses, providing both mobility and a supportive environment for vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and public transit users.
Kirby Smith Road within the limits of Narcoossee Road and N Shore Golf Club Blvd is classified as a C3R Suburban Residential classification, where lower operating speeds are appropriate to support surrounding land uses. A review of the corridor indicates that adjacent segments of Kirby Smith Road currently operate at a posted speed limit of 30 mph. To maintain corridor speed continuity, driver expectancy, and consistent traffic operations, the proposed speed reduction to 30 mph aligns with the existing posted speed of the same roadway segment. Matching the established speed limit will reduce speed differentials, improve driver compliance, and enhance safety for motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists, particularly given the residential character and developing land uses along the corridor.
BUDGET: N/A