Allen is raising speed limits on three roads, following studies by the city’s Engineering Department. The changes affect a trio of recently-constructed roadways: Ridgeview Drive, Stockton Drive and Curtis Lane.
Texas transportation code sets the speed limit on urban streets to 30 miles per hour (mph) until specific speed limits are identified by local ordinance. After a new roadway opens, Allen engineers observe road conditions and a variety of other factors before recommending a speed limit other than 30 mph.
After examining traffic patterns on Stockton Drive and Curtis Lane, Allen engineers recommended increasing the speed limit to 35 mph. The change will ensure good traffic flow without compromising safety.
Engineers also reexamined the speed limit on Ridgeview Drive. In May, Allen opened a new segment between Alma Drive and Stacy Road, creating a continuous roadway between Custer Road and Watters Road. The existing speed limit between Stacy and Watters was 40 mph, while the portion between Alma and Custer was already set at 45 mph.
Based on traffic studies, engineers recommended a speed limit of 45 mph for all sections that are four-lanes wide. However, when the road narrows to two lanes, just east of Alma Drive, the speed limit will need to remain 40 mph. Warning signs will be posted before the 40 mph zone and fluorescent signs will be installed above the 40 mph signs to remind drivers to reduce their speed.
City council members approved the speed limit changes during the council meeting on Aug. 9. The new speed limit signs will be installed by the end of August.