County proposes drastic speed limit reduction for safety

In a recent meeting, the Broadwater County Board of Commissioners discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at reducing the speed limit on Mill Street in Raidersburg from 35 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour. The initiative was prompted by a petition from local landowners, with at least ten signatures verified by the county clerk and recorder.

The current speed limit, which is deemed unsafe due to the road's heavy use by off-highway vehicles and the presence of children in the area, has raised safety concerns among residents. The ordinance is set to undergo a first reading, with a second reading scheduled for July 10. If approved, the new speed limit would take effect 30 days later, around August 12.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the importance of community feedback, noting that residents have expressed appreciation for recent traffic monitoring efforts, which have helped raise awareness about speeding in the area. A traffic counter previously deployed indicated that many drivers were exceeding the current speed limit, prompting the need for regulatory changes.

The proposed ordinance aligns with Montana state law, which allows local authorities to establish speed limits that are deemed reasonable and safe based on road conditions. The commissioners emphasized the necessity of the new limit for the safety of residents and the overall community.

The meeting concluded with a reminder that, in the absence of posted speed limits, the default speed limit on county roads in Montana is 70 miles per hour, underscoring the importance of the proposed changes to ensure public safety.