Commissioners set speed‑limit plan for Cote D'Oreille access road after safety concerns

Williams County commissioners on Aug. 5 voted to follow the highway superintendent’s recommendation to establish a controlled speed plan on the access road to the Cote D’Oreille campground. County staff said the road sits in a low spot with uphill approaches and increasing pedestrian and bicycle traffic after campground expansion, prompting a request for a designated speed limit and advance warning signs.

Highway staff recommended speed reductions on the approaches and advance warning signage; commissioners moved to adopt the highway superintendent’s guidance and directed staff to draft specific signage and speed‑limit postings. Commissioners discussed options, including 35 mph approaches and 25 mph through the bottom of the valley, with advance warning signs 500 feet before the top of the hill. The board’s motion asked staff to proceed on the superintendent’s plan and return with the specific sign locations and regulatory language.

The motion passed by roll call. County staff will prepare the formal speed‑limit order, signage plan and placement details for future formal action and implementation.