State lawmakers have approved New York City's request to lower the speed limit to 25 mph. 

The bill was sent to Albany after approval from the City Council. Local leaders are calling the move an important step toward making the city safer, and a proven way to decrease traffic-related deaths and injuries. 

The legislation is part of Mayor Bill de Blasio's Vision Zero initiative to eliminate pedestrian fatalities and improve the city's overall traffic safety. 

The measure now heads to Gov. Andrew Cuomo for final approval.