The area of Fitzroy and Collingwood has a strong sense of community and for local resident Mim Lowe, 30km/h speed limits will only strengthen that.

For Mim and her family, reducing speed limits to 30km/h creates a more welcoming environment, further building upon the vibrant community and sense of connection that already exists in the area.

“There’s a strong sense of community in Collingwood. On my street it’s a rarity that I leave my home without stopping to chat with neighbours. I think having slower speeds where people are more likely to walk will only bring about a better sense of connection.”

Having lived in the area for more than a decade now, Mim has built a strong sense of belonging in her street and in the neighbourhood, just from being out and about.

“Some people say you have to go out to the suburbs to find a sense of community, but I’ve found a much stronger sense of community here on my Collingwood street.

“Both my neighbours on either side have been living here for 40 years, I’ve seen the kids across the road grow up, the girl next door who used to babysit my boys is now 30. I don’t have to go out of my way, I just need to walk out my front gate.”

Mim recalls when speed limits were reduced to 40km/h and the impact this had for the community she lived in at the time.

“I remember when speeds were reduced from 50km/h to 40km/h; slower speeds made a huge difference to the way people could be out on the street. It felt like a safer environment and a more pleasant place to be.”

When it comes to reducing speeds to 30km/h, Mim envisions it can only further improve those same feelings of safety, and general enjoyment of being out and about in your neighbourhood, to the trial area.

“I think reducing speeds makes it safer, more civilised and sociable and in reality, it’s a really simple change for people to make that can have an immensely positive impact on the area. It costs us nothing and the benefits are immeasurable.”

Working in sustainability, Mim also sees this trial’s potential for positive impact on the environment in a time when we should be energy-conscious.

“Reducing speeds and creating the possibility for people to be more likely to choose to walk those few kilometres to pick up some groceries, rather than drive, simply because the streets are a more welcoming place. That to me, is an easy and big step in the right direction.”

Mim and her family all frequently walk and bike to work, school and around the area, and welcome 30km/h to improve how people are sharing and using the roads.

“My boys ride their bikes to school, my husband rides to work as do I, so it’s definitely nice to know that slower speeds in the area will make it a bit safer.”

“I think this trial brings about a positive vision for our community to live in, improving safety but also liveability of the area and in turn strengthening an existing vibrant sense of community. It’s a great thing - for everyone.”