12/13/2012
Speed limit reduced near West Minico Middle School early next week
PAUL – Recent concerns for the speed of traffic on Idaho 27 near West Minico Middle School have prompted a speed-limit change through the area, the Idaho Transportation Department announced. The speed change is expected to take place early next week.
The existing speed limit will remain in effect until new signs have been posted.
The 35 mph speed limit will extend south from near the middle of town through the school zone. The 45 mph speed zone will extend south from the school. The speed changes were recommended based on the actual speed of traffic through the area and the number of business and residential access points.
In addition to the speed reduction, additional signage to alert drivers of the school zone and pedestrian traffic will be installed near the school. An engineering speed study was prompted following an incident where a student was nearly hit by a truck while crossing Idaho 27 in a crosswalk at the north end of the school zone in early October.
“After looking at the data and in light of the close call at the school, we do feel that these changes are needed,” said Bruce Christensen, ITD district traffic engineer. “Hopefully, what we’re proposing will make the roadway safer and remind drivers to be more cautious.”