Dear NYS DOT,

We, the undersigned, are writing to express our concern regarding the 55mph speed limit on the Long Island Expressway (LIE). We understand that the speed cameras on the LIE are meant to regulate work zones and keep construction workers safe, and we fully support efforts to enforce safe driving practices in these areas.

However, outside of work zones, we believe that with the safety improvements and advancements in car technology since the 55mph speed limit was created in 1974, the speed limit on the LIE should be raised to the national average for highways.

In 1974, the 55mph speed limit was created as a response to the oil crisis, and as a result, it became a symbol of government regulation and control. However, we believe that it is time to re-evaluate this speed limit, as technology and safety measures have drastically improved since then.

Additionally, we would like to highlight the recent installation of speed cameras along the LIE. While we support efforts to enforce safe driving practices, we believe that these cameras will only exacerbate the already slow traffic flow on the LIE. Raising the speed limit to the national average would help to alleviate this congestion and reduce travel times for drivers.

We believe that raising the speed limit on the LIE to the national average for highways, which is currently 70mph in many states, would improve traffic flow and reduce travel times for drivers. It would also bring the LIE in line with other major highways and expressways across the country.

We urge you to consider the advancements in car technology and safety improvements that have occurred since 1974, and to raise the speed limit on the LIE to the national average for highways. We believe that this change would not only benefit drivers, but also contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of Long Island.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Residents of Long Island