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Council approves first reading to set FM 3351 speed limit at 50 mph within Fair Oaks Ranch
Summary
Council removed the FM 3351 speed-limit item from consent, heard staff say Techtop’s traffic study and the Texas Transportation Commission supported a 50 mph limit, and approved first reading of an ordinance to adopt a 50 mph limit inside city limits; enforcement awaits posted signs and completion of required publications.
Fair Oaks Ranch — The City Council on June 4 approved the first reading of an ordinance to set the speed limit on FM 3351 at 50 miles per hour where it runs inside the city.
Council removed the item from the consent agenda for additional discussion. Carol Vanzant, assistant city manager, told the council that a citizen submitted a request last year to reduce the limit; Techtop (the road owner) was required to perform a traffic study, which “warranted 50 miles per hour,” she said. Vanzant said the city took the study to the Texas Transportation Commission, which approved a 50 mph limit earlier this year, and the ordinance is needed so the city can enforce that posted limit inside its jurisdiction.
Vanzant said Tex (the road authority) is responsible for ordering and installing new speed limit signs; under state law the city must publish the ordinance amendment in the local newspaper before enforcement can begin. Councilmember comments were limited; a motion to approve the first reading passed by voice vote.
Next steps: the ordinance will return for a second reading; enforcement may begin only after required publications and installation of new speed-limit signs. The council did not change the speed that the Texas Transportation Commission approved but created the local ordinance needed to make it enforceable inside city limits.
Speakers quoted: Carol Vanzant, assistant city manager; Mayor Maxton.
What’s next: Staff will confirm sign installation and publish the legal notice after second reading so police may begin enforcement. This item was described in the council packet on page 12.
