Walla Walla County commissioners on Monday adopted Ordinance No. 504 to change posted speed limits on segments of Old Highway 12 and nearby markers in unincorporated county areas.

The measure, introduced by county public works staff, adjusts several long-distance segments to 60 mph with 40 mph reductions through the Tusche and Loudoun hamlets and adds a short 35 mph signed segment near the Highway 12 interchange. The changes follow a multi-month review and public outreach process and are intended to align posted speeds with roadway geometry and community safety concerns.

Joel (Public Works director) presented the staff recommendations and confirmed the ordinance references Walla Walla County Code Chapter 10.04 (speed limits). Commissioners asked about timing for sign changes; Public Works estimated posted signs would be manufactured and installed in three to four weeks. The board voted 3–0 to adopt the ordinance.

Commissioners and staff noted the changes capped a long process of engineering evaluation, community input and interagency coordination. Chairman Gunnar Fullmer asked that the county ensure maps and signs match the posted code language to avoid short-term confusion during the changeover.