Council Members Debate Speed Limit Times Around Lowell School and Community Parks

During the Missoula City Council meeting on August 25, 2025, council members engaged in a significant discussion regarding the enforcement of speed limits in school zones. The primary focus was on establishing a clear time frame for when these speed limits should be applicable, moving away from the ambiguous "when children are present" guideline.

Councilor Spitzer proposed an amendment to set the speed limit enforcement from 7 AM to 7 PM, suggesting that this timeframe would be more straightforward for residents to understand and adhere to. Spitzer emphasized that a defined schedule would reduce confusion and improve compliance among drivers.

Councilor Jordan supported this amendment but suggested extending the enforcement to 24 hours a day, arguing that areas like Lowell School, which also serve as community play spaces, are busy throughout the day and evening. Jordan expressed concern that limiting enforcement to specific hours might not adequately protect children and families using these spaces.

However, Councilor Becerra raised practical concerns about the feasibility of enforcing a 24-hour speed limit, suggesting that a balance should be struck to ensure that any regulations put in place are realistic and enforceable. The discussion also touched on the possibility of using sunrise to sunset as a guideline, but city officials indicated that such a variable approach might not align with the standards set by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), which typically requires fixed time frames for enforcement.

The council's deliberations highlighted the ongoing challenge of ensuring safety in school zones while balancing enforceability and community needs. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that further discussions would be necessary to finalize the speed limit regulations, with council members committed to finding a solution that prioritizes the safety of children and families in Missoula.