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Commissioners debate TxDOT speed-study results for FM 2520; ordinance advanced as first reading
Summary
San Benito commissioners reviewed a TxDOT speed survey and held a first reading of an ordinance proposing lower speed limits on FM 2520. Commissioners raised concerns about potential business impacts and requested staff contact TxDOT for follow-up before final action.
City commissioners held a lengthy discussion during first reading of an ordinance to adopt revised speed limits along FM 2520, noting the proposal stemmed from a TxDOT speed study completed in 2022 and that the city had to adopt a local ordinance to make the changes effective.
The ordinance presented at first reading would lower several stretches of FM 2520: portions near the expressway and approaching Woodford would drop from 40 mph to 30 mph; segments farther out would be set at 40 mph or 50 mph as described in the TxDOT recommendations. Staff told the commission the study also recommended a school-zone speed of 35 mph where flashing lights are installed. Commissioners and the public raised concerns about whether lower posted speeds would deter through traffic and reduce patronage at roadside businesses. Several commissioners asked staff to contact TxDOT’s area engineer for additional review and public-engagement follow-up before final adoption.
Why it matters: the proposed reduced speed limits affect safety, traffic flow and local businesses along a key corridor. TxDOT’s engineering recommendations were presented as the basis for the ordinance, but commissioners emphasized the need for updated engagement and review given the study’s age and community concerns.
What was decided: the ordinance was advanced on first reading only. Staff agreed to reach out to the TxDOT area engineer to request a follow-up review and to solicit public input; a final ordinance vote will return to the commission once staff and TxDOT address commissioners’ questions and public notice requirements.
Additional context: staff said the speed study had been completed in 2022 and was awaiting the city ordinance to be implemented. Commissioners noted similar past projects (medians on Business 77) have included extensive public outreach, and they asked that TxDOT provide comparable outreach for any changes with business access implications.
Next steps: city staff will contact TxDOT’s area engineer, relay commissioners’ concerns about business impacts and safety, and report back with options for additional public engagement prior to final ordinance adoption.
