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Richlands asks NCDOT to lower downtown speed limits to 25 mph; Ervintown Road slated for 45 mph
Summary
The board approved Resolution 2025-02 formally requesting NCDOT reduce speeds to 25 mph on several downtown streets; town staff said NCDOT also plans to lower Ervintown Road from 55 to 45 mph.
Richlands officials moved Aug. 12 to request lower speed limits on downtown streets and learned NCDOT intends to reduce speeds on a nearby arterial.
Town Administrator Gregg Whitehead told the board that NCDOT reviewed the town’s request and agreed to reduce most secondary roads downtown to 25 mph. Whitehead presented Resolution 2025-02 asking NCDOT to set 25 mph on Wilmington Street (US 258 to New Street), W. Hargett Street (US 258 to Wilmington Street), E. Hargett Street (Wilmington Street to Winstead Place), and Franck Street (US 258 to East Point/Norwood Baysden Street). Whitehead also said NCDOT planned to lower Ervintown Road from 55 mph to 45 mph.
Alderman Paul Conner moved to approve Resolution 2025-02; Alderman Marilyn Bunce seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
Why it matters: Lower posted speeds on town streets aim to improve pedestrian and driver safety in the downtown area. The board’s resolution formally requests action by the state transportation agency; NCDOT retains final authority to post speeds and implement changes.
What’s next: Town staff will follow up with NCDOT on implementation timing and signage.
