Foley City Council has given final approval to an ordinance lowering the speed limit on Irwin Street from 40 mph to 35 mph, a move intended to increase access for low-speed vehicles and connect drivers to more businesses in the area.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the change will allow state-approved low-speed vehicles to legally travel on the roadway.

"That will make that street consistent with the requirements for these vehicles," Hellmich said. "Any low-speed motor vehicle that's approved by the state will be able to drive down it and go to some of the businesses without having to get on busier streets. That's one of the purposes of doing this."

Irwin Street runs from West Azalea Avenue to West Michigan Avenue west of Alabama 59.

City officials said the lower speed limit will help accommodate the growing use of low-speed vehicles by expanding access to additional areas of Foley while reducing the need for drivers to use busier roadways.

Under Alabama law, low-speed vehicles are defined as vehicles with a maximum speed of 25 mph or less. The law prohibits those vehicles from operating on streets where they would impede the normal flow of traffic. In most cities, low-speed vehicles are not permitted on streets with speed limits higher than 35 mph.

Municipalities can allow low-speed vehicles on certain streets if the vehicles meet state safety requirements, including the use of headlights, taillights and turn signals. Drivers operating low-speed vehicles on city streets must also hold a valid driver's license.