Gilroy council introduces code change to allow lower school‑zone speeds, approves $150,000 for signs and consultant work

The Gilroy City Council introduced an ordinance on April 20 to amend city code to reference California Vehicle Code §22358.4 (Assembly Bill 382), allowing the council to set prima facie speed limits in school zones at 15 or 20 miles per hour where conditions justify it.

Public Works Director John Doughty said staff will work with a consultant to evaluate each public school site, recommend speed zones and signage, and complete required sign installations prior to the 2026–27 school year (targeted for late August). The staff report also described a planned parallel evaluation for private schools beginning in September.

Council approved a budget amendment of $150,000 from the vehicle registration fee fund to capital project 801120 for consultant assistance, signage and related implementation work. The council directed staff to return May 18 with the ordinance for adoption. Both the introduction and the budget amendment were approved 7–0.

Councilmember Ramirez urged a robust public outreach effort with the school district to reach parents, and Councilmember Hilton asked staff to be explicit with Gilroy Unified School District on how the city wants the district to help publicize the changes.

What happens next: staff will inventory school sites, conduct engineering assessments with a consultant, propose specific prima facie speed reductions where AB 382 criteria are met, and return with an ordinance and implementation plan on May 18.