Ottawa police say speeding infractions were up in April as drivers tried to take advantage of the city's emptier streets.

The "gateway" speed-limit signs will be installed at entrances and exits of certain residential areas in Ottawa where the city feels 40 km/h is more appropriate.

The new signs will be installed at the entrances and exits of a designated residential zone – rather than being posted every 300 metres in the area, as the law previously required for speed limits lower than the default 50 km/h.