Mayor of Parkes, Cr Ken Keith said on Friday work on the 40km/h precinct had been completed in time for today’s introduction.

‘Now that the signs are up, the speed limit is in force,” he said.

"Threshold humps have been installed on all entry points to Clarinda Street to lower traffic speeds before motorists reach the 40km/h speed zone.

“There are threshold humps in Brown Street, Welcome Street, Clarinda Street, Court Street and Dalton Street,” Cr Keith said.

"40km/h gateway signs have been erected on the threshold humps which makes the speed zone very visible to motorists.

"We have also placed variable message board trailers on either end of Clarinda Street and in Welcome Street to alert drivers to the change in speed zone and prompt them to check their speed," Cr Keith said.

The new 40km/h speed limit is enforceable and Lachlan Highway Patrol Sergeant Nicholas Park has warned that police will be monitoring vehicle travelling speeds in Clarinda Street over the coming months.

"Travelling at lower speeds improves a driver’s ability to stop and avoid crashes.

“Where crashes do occur they are less severe, especially for children and the elderly.

“This is why Police support the speed limit in Clarinda Street.

“We will be keeping an eye on how motorists react to the new 40km/h speed zone and infringements will be issued," Sgt Park said.

The new 40km/h speed limit in the CBD area brings Parkes into line with many other councils across the state and internationally.

"Parkes Shire Council decided to implement a 40km/h speed limit in Clarinda Street because of the high number of pedestrians,” Cr Keith said.

Drivers are reminded to watch for signs and reduce their speed.

The project is 50/50 funded by Parkes Shire Council and the RTA.

For further information please contact Parkes Shire Council's Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor, on (02) 6861 2364.