Red Bank adopts lower downtown speeds and new school-zone limits; resident seeks clarification

The Red Bank Board of Commissioners on second and final reading approved a package of ordinances that revise speed limits on segments of Dayton Boulevard, Ashland Terrace and in designated school zones.

Vice Mayor Holly Berry and commissioners voted unanimously to adopt Ordinance 26-1303, which reduces a downtown segment of State Route 8 (Dayton Boulevard) from 40 mph to 35 mph. Commissioners also approved Ordinance 26-1304 setting local speed limits for Ashland Terrace (where posted limits will change in some stretches) and the downtown portion of Dayton Boulevard. Ordinance 26-1305 establishes school-zone speed parameters, lowering certain school-zone limits from 35 to 25 mph during school hours and reducing some residential roads near Point Christian Academy from 25 to 15 mph during school hours.

During discussion a resident, Susan Harden, asked for clarification about the before-and-after posted speeds for Ashland Terrace and the downtown Dayton segment. Commissioner Tate and others explained Ashland Terrace’s posted limit would increase in places to 35 mph but that the ordinance also creates a 25-mph school zone during school hours; downtown Dayton’s marked downtown portion will be reduced from 40 to 35. Ms. Harden’s question prompted commissioners to confirm that school-zone signage will be posted where applicable.

All three ordinances passed on unanimous votes; board members said the measures reflect previous discussion and public safety considerations. The commission noted the items had been discussed at the April 7 meeting and that signage and school-hour enforcement will follow usual procedures.

No additional public safety data or speed-study details were provided during the hearing; commissioners said the changes take effect per the ordinances’ implementation timeline and will be reflected in city code.

The commission also invited residents to contact public works with specific location questions.