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Commissioners approve 20 mph speed limit on Sandia neighborhood streets, ask staff to check TxDOT authority
Summary
Jim Wells County Commissioners approved a request from Commissioner Renee Chapa to set a 20 mph maximum on neighborhood streets in Sandia, excluding several state and FM roads. Residents testified about narrow streets and child safety; commissioners asked county staff to confirm whether Texas Department of Transportation approval is required.
Jim Wells County Commissioners Court voted on Jan. 27, 2025, to set a 20‑mile‑per‑hour maximum speed limit on neighborhood streets in Sandia, Texas, excluding State Highway 359, FM 70, FM 1540, County Road 3604 and County Road 3601. Commissioner Renee Chapa sponsored the request.
“Sandia is a small community,” Commissioner Chapa said, noting narrow road widths and the presence of children and elderly residents; she told the court she had discussed the proposal with a resident and recommended a lower speed limit than the existing 30 mph sign. Resident Richard Miller, who said he lives in Sandia, described streets “made for model t’s and fours” and urged the court to act to reduce vehicle speeds. Miller told commissioners that enforcement depends on posted signs: “Constable cannot write a speeding ticket if we don't have signs posted,” he said.
Commissioners asked County Attorney Michael Guerra whether TxDOT approval was required for the change. Guerra said he was not aware that TxDOT approval was necessary and noted the county had previously set speed limits on other county roads; commissioners nonetheless asked staff to contact TxDOT and verify whether additional approvals or steps are needed. The motion language included confirmation with TxDOT before final implementation.
The court voted to approve the 20 mph limit subject to that check. The judge said the county will post signs before enforcement efforts proceed.
