Bill H.834 aims to improve traffic safety and enhance pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure in Vermont by allowing municipalities to set speed limits below 25 miles per hour in downtown and village centers, as well as in thickly settled districts. The bill introduces a definition for "thickly settled district" and empowers local legislative bodies to establish these lower speed limits. It also includes provisions to prohibit parking near crosswalks, allows for designated vehicle unloading and bicycle or scooter parking, and restricts the use of center turn lanes for passing under certain conditions. Additionally, the bill mandates a study on how municipalities can assist the Agency of Transportation in updating traffic control manuals and improving infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.

To further support local transportation infrastructure, the bill establishes a Class 1 Town Highway Task Force, which will explore the reclassification of state highways in downtown and village centers as class 1 town highways. This task force will examine funding mechanisms, maintenance practices, and community engagement strategies, and is required to submit a report with findings and legislative recommendations by January 15, 2027. The bill also specifies that the adoption of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) will take effect on July 1, 2027, while other sections will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 23-1007, 24-5803, 23-1025, 23-1104, 23-1038