City Council to Consider Speed Zone Study for Victory Christian Academy on Mulberry Street

In the heart of Decatur's city hall, council members gathered to discuss a pressing issue that affects the safety of students and families in the community. The focus of the evening was the need for a designated school zone at Victory Christian Academy, located on Mulberry Street. This discussion, initiated by council member Mrs. Hilton, highlighted the importance of ensuring safe passage for children as they arrive and depart from school.

City officials, including the mayor and staff members, reviewed the current state of school zone signage across the district. They confirmed that most schools are equipped with appropriate signage, including flashing lights and designated times for speed limits. However, the situation at Victory Christian Academy was different. The existing sign lacked the necessary flashing lights and specific time restrictions, raising concerns about the safety of students in that area.

To address this issue, the council discussed the legal framework that governs speed limits in school zones. According to Texas law, municipalities must conduct a speed study before altering speed limits. This process involves a public hearing and an engineering evaluation to determine the safest speed limit for the area. However, the cost of such a study can be significant, with estimates reaching up to $20,000. The council is exploring partnerships with neighboring cities to potentially reduce these costs.

As the meeting progressed, the council members expressed their commitment to finding a fiscally responsible solution. They acknowledged the importance of proper signage not only for the school zone but also for cell phone restrictions in the vicinity. The Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices serves as the guiding standard for these regulations, ensuring that all signage meets safety requirements.

In a collaborative spirit, the council decided to gather more information before proceeding with the speed study. They emphasized the need for thorough data collection to ensure the safety of students at Victory Christian Academy. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and determination to enhance safety measures for the community's children, leaving residents hopeful for timely action in the near future.