TITLE
Consider an ordinance amending Chapter 28, Article IX to repeal construction zone speed limits and establish the maximum speed limit on specifically designated streets.
SUMMARY
DATE: February 19, 2019
TO: Ronald L. Olson, City Manager
FROM: David A. Olson, Executive Director of Public Works
SUBJECT: Consider an Ordinance to amend Chapter 28, Traffic, Article IX, Miscellaneous Rules of the City of Killeen’s Code of Ordinances by repealing construction zone speed limits and establishing the maximum speed limit on specifically designated streets.
BACKGROUND AND FINDINGS:
Chapter 545 of the Texas Transportation Code authorizes the City of Killeen to alter by ordinance prima facie speed limits from the results of an engineering and traffic investigation. The prima facie speed limit for urban streets and highways is 30 mph and 70 mph respectively. The recommendations in the ordinance are based on completed speed studies (engineering and traffic investigations) performed by either City staff or TxDOT showing that any prima facie speed limit set by statute is greater or less than is reasonable or safe under the conditions found to exist, taking into consideration the width and condition of the pavement and other circumstances on that portion of roadway, as well as the usual traffic on it, in accordance with the Texas Transportation Code. The proposed ordinance would codify existing posted speed limits for all roads that vary from the statutory limits in a user friendly chart format, with the exception of Elms Road which will change to 35 mph from SH 195 to Clear Creek Road. For ease of use, the proposed ordinance also moves speed limits currently found in other existing sections into the new chart format and repeals the individual sections.
The current ordinance contains construction zone speed limits for portions of State Highway 195, U.S. Highway 190, U.S. Highway 190 frontage roads, and FM 2410. Since construction has ceased on these roads within the City limits, it is appropriate to repeal these construction zone speed limits.
THE ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
1. Take no action
2. Request a modification or further studies to the proposed Ordinance change
3. Adopt this Ordinance to amend Chapter 28, Traffic, Article IX of the City of Killeen’s Code of Ordinances
Which alternative is recommended? Why?
Alternative #3 is recommended because:
1. The recommended speed limits are based on completed speed studies (engineering and traffic investigations) performed by either City staff or TxDOT with guidance provided by the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices;
2. The construction zones no longer exist; and
3. It promotes the safety and welfare of the motoring public.
CONFORMITY TO CITY POLICY:
This complies with City Policy as established by Chapter 28, Traffic, and Article IX and ensures the safety and welfare of the motoring public.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
What is the amount of the expenditure in the current fiscal year? For future years?
This action requires no expenditures at this time.
Is this a one-time or recurring expenditure?
This action requires no expenditures at this time.
Is this expenditure budgeted?
This action requires no expenditures at this time.
If not, where will the money come from?
Not applicable
Is there a sufficient amount in the budgeted line-item for this expenditure?
This action requires no expenditures at this time.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that this Ordinance to amend Chapter 28, Article IX be approved to allow the City of Killeen to repeal construction zone speed limits and establish speed limits for specified streets to ensure the safety and welfare of the motoring public. The recommended speed limits are based on completed speed studies (engineering and traffic investigations) performed by either City staff or TxDOT with guidance provided by the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
DEPARTMENTAL CLEARANCES:
Public Works
City Attorney
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
Ordinance