Midlothian City Council discusses lowering US Highway 287 speed limit to enhance safety

The Midlothian City Council convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting the community, including a significant development project and a proposed change to speed limits on US Highway 287.

One of the primary topics was the development of a new facility that is expected to create at least 30 jobs in the local marketplace. The project, which involves multiple buildings, is projected to require a capital investment of approximately $250,000 per building. The developers emphasized their commitment to responsible development and are currently in discussions with potential tenants for the facility. The council expressed interest in the economic benefits this project could bring to Midlothian, highlighting the importance of job creation in the area.

In another significant discussion, the council revisited a proposal to lower the speed limit on US Highway 287 from 65 miles per hour to 60 miles per hour. This recommendation follows a speed study conducted by TxDOT, which indicated that a reduction could enhance safety along this busy corridor. Residents and representatives from the Citizens Advocating for Road Safety (CARS) group voiced their concerns about the current speed limits, citing a rise in accidents attributed to speeding. They presented data suggesting that a lower speed limit could lead to fewer crashes and fatalities.

After considerable debate, the council ultimately voted to deny the proposed speed limit change to 60 miles per hour and instead directed staff to approach TxDOT with a recommendation to lower the speed limit to 55 miles per hour throughout the corridor. This decision reflects the council's commitment to prioritizing the safety of residents and addressing the increasing traffic concerns in the area.

Additionally, the council discussed amendments to speed limits on several local roads, proposing to increase the speed limit on North Ward Road to 40 miles per hour and set the remainder of the roads in the Crossroads development to 35 miles per hour. These changes aim to better align speed limits with the road types and expected traffic volumes.

The outcomes of this meeting underscore the council's focus on fostering economic growth while ensuring the safety and well-being of Midlothian residents. As the city continues to grow, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the community's infrastructure and safety measures.