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Commission says Kemp Street 25 MPH posting not enforceable without state-approved speed study
Summary
Members discussed 25 MPH signage and enforcement on Kemp Street after a roundabout installation; Baier said state statute requires a speed study and state approval for a lower limit, and residents reported moving the reduced-speed posting slowed traffic before the bridge.
Committee member Baier detailed the history and limits of the current 25 MPH signage on Kemp Street, explaining that state law requires a formal declaration and a state-approved speed study before a posted reduction can be enforced. Baier noted that although Kemp Street lies within Rhinelander city limits, the roadway is under the jurisdiction of the Oneida County Highway Department, so setting and enforcing the limit follows county and state procedures rather than a city unilateral change.
Residents Schreier and Jerow told the commission that when the reduced-speed posting was moved farther west after the roundabout was completed, drivers slowed earlier and approached the bridge more cautiously. They said recent detour traffic and the current placement of the 25 MPH sign, which now sits closer to the bridge, has allowed higher vehicle speeds deeper into the city limits. Baier reiterated that if enforcement is desired at the lower limit, a formal speed study and state approval are required under State Statute.
The commission discussed whether enforcement capacity or a formal study should be the next step; no formal motion to change speed limits or request a study was recorded in the minutes.
