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Council previews change to Mason Road speed limits, police back consistency and lower speeds
Summary
Staff presented an amendment to Burlington’s speed regulations that would make long stretches of Mason Road consistently 30 mph, keep the S-curves at 25 mph, and align signage and school-zone hours; police recommended completing readings to allow public comment before final adoption.
City staff asked the council to consider an amendment to chapter 73 of the Burlington Municipal Code that would standardize speeds on parts of Mason Road and adjust school-zone timing and signage.
Mr. McGregor explained the amendment would create a continuous 30 mph zone on Mason Road between Roosevelt and the S-curves, with the S-curve segment remaining 25 mph. The change follows a speed study and staff discussions with the police department; the chief recommended proceeding with second and third readings so residents have an opportunity to weigh in.
Chief Schaefer told councilors that crashes and weaving maneuvers around business entrances make the current mix of 25, 30 and 35 mph inconsistent and potentially unsafe. “We highly recommend the change from 35 to 30,” the chief said, citing both visibility and crash patterns at nearby intersections.
Council discussion focused on local memory of the 25-mph designation, resident perceptions, and whether the proposed increase from 25 to 30 (in limited stretches) would be controversial. Several councilors said they favor consistency and modest reductions from the highest posted limits on the corridor; staff and the police suggested not waving additional readings so the public can comment during scheduled hearings.
Next steps: staff will place the amended ordinance language in the next regular meeting’s packet for continued readings and public comment.
