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Solomon council declines official 'Children at Play' street signs after legal review
Summary
After a legal review citing the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the council voted not to install official 'Children at Play' signs in the public right-of-way and asked staff to study alternative safety measures such as marked crossings or posted playground signs.
The Solomon City Council on Nov. 3 declined a request to install official "Children at Play" street signs after city staff reported a legal review found such non‑standard signs are not authorized under the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and could expose the city to liability.
Municipal Services Clerk Krista Radke told the council that installing non‑MUTCD signage in the public right-of-way could remove the city's discretionary immunity in certain accidents, creating legal risk. Radke said alternatives exist, including installing appropriate pedestrian-crossing or playground signs where supported by traffic standards, and allowing private property owners to erect signage on their own property.
The council agreed not to install official city 'Children at Play' street signs and directed staff to study the areas of concern and recommend other enforceable safety improvements.
Why it matters: standard traffic-control guidance is designed to minimize confusion and liability; the council’s decision prioritizes compliance with state and national traffic-control rules while seeking practical ways to improve child safety.
Next steps: staff will evaluate specific locations and return with recommendations for compliant signs or other safety measures that meet MUTCD standards.
