Wyoming Bill Permits Counties to Set Speed Limits Up to 55 MPH Without Study
November 16, 2024 | Transportation, Highways & Military Affairs, Joint & Standing, Committees, Legislative, Wyoming
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The Joint Transportation, Highways & Military Affairs Committee of the Wyoming Legislature convened on November 15, 2024, to discuss proposed changes to speed limit regulations for unpaved roadways. The key focus of the meeting was a bill that would allow local authorities to set maximum speed limits between 45 and 55 miles per hour without the need for a speed study or justification.
The proposed legislation aims to streamline the process for counties to establish speed limits on unpaved roads, which are often subject to varying conditions. Under the new rules, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) would be responsible for implementing necessary regulations, with the bill set to take effect in two phases: the first section on July 1, 2025, and the remaining sections immediately.
During the meeting, committee members expressed concerns about the implications of allowing counties to set speed limits without conducting speed studies. Some members argued that local authorities possess a better understanding of their roads and should have the flexibility to determine appropriate speed limits based on local conditions. Others highlighted the importance of maintaining safety and consistency across the state, referencing federal regulations that require speed studies to ensure safe driving conditions.
Darren Westby, the director of WYDOT, acknowledged the need for clarity in the bill and emphasized that while counties could raise or lower speed limits, safety must remain a priority. He noted that most counties have access to licensed engineers who can conduct speed studies, which would help ensure that speed limits reflect safe driving conditions.
The discussion also touched on the potential for counties to lower speed limits below 45 miles per hour, with some committee members advocating for greater local control. Jonathan Russell from the Wyoming County Commissioners Association echoed this sentiment, stating that counties should have the authority to lower speed limits as they see fit, particularly on roads that may not be safe for higher speeds.
As the committee deliberates on the proposed bill, the outcome could significantly impact how speed limits are managed on unpaved roads throughout Wyoming, balancing local authority with safety considerations. Further discussions and potential amendments are expected as the legislative process continues.
The proposed legislation aims to streamline the process for counties to establish speed limits on unpaved roads, which are often subject to varying conditions. Under the new rules, the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) would be responsible for implementing necessary regulations, with the bill set to take effect in two phases: the first section on July 1, 2025, and the remaining sections immediately.
During the meeting, committee members expressed concerns about the implications of allowing counties to set speed limits without conducting speed studies. Some members argued that local authorities possess a better understanding of their roads and should have the flexibility to determine appropriate speed limits based on local conditions. Others highlighted the importance of maintaining safety and consistency across the state, referencing federal regulations that require speed studies to ensure safe driving conditions.
Darren Westby, the director of WYDOT, acknowledged the need for clarity in the bill and emphasized that while counties could raise or lower speed limits, safety must remain a priority. He noted that most counties have access to licensed engineers who can conduct speed studies, which would help ensure that speed limits reflect safe driving conditions.
The discussion also touched on the potential for counties to lower speed limits below 45 miles per hour, with some committee members advocating for greater local control. Jonathan Russell from the Wyoming County Commissioners Association echoed this sentiment, stating that counties should have the authority to lower speed limits as they see fit, particularly on roads that may not be safe for higher speeds.
As the committee deliberates on the proposed bill, the outcome could significantly impact how speed limits are managed on unpaved roads throughout Wyoming, balancing local authority with safety considerations. Further discussions and potential amendments are expected as the legislative process continues.
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