Residents of Bell County are advocating for safer roads as discussions about speed limits took center stage during the Bell County Commissioner's Court meeting on November 4, 2024. The court opened a public hearing to address community concerns regarding traffic safety, particularly on Elm Grove Road.

During the meeting, a traffic study was presented, revealing that approximately 300 vehicles travel daily on the northern section of the road, while the southern section sees around 233 vehicles. These figures have prompted local residents to call for a reduction in the speed limit to enhance safety, especially given the increase in heavy truck traffic from nearby facilities.

Jerry Gant, a resident of Elm Grove Road, voiced his concerns during the public hearing, highlighting the need for a lower speed limit. He noted that despite the findings of a previous study conducted in 2013, the current traffic conditions seem to have worsened, particularly with the rise in Amazon truck deliveries.

The court has not yet consulted with the City of Belton regarding these findings, but the discussions indicate a growing awareness of traffic safety issues in the area. The public hearing allowed residents to express their views, with six individuals filling out participation forms to share their thoughts on the matter.

As the court continues to gather input from the community, the potential for changes to speed limits and traffic regulations remains a priority. The outcome of these discussions could lead to significant improvements in road safety for Bell County residents.