Washington speed limit change passes

WASHINGTON — A change in city code lowering the speed limit on Highway 92 east of Washington passed its third and final reading Tuesday night, lowering the limit to 45 miles per hour on the area between Airport Road and city limits.

City officials said the change would go into effect as soon as the Iowa Department of Transportation installed the proper signage.

“The development along this section of highway and resulting increase in traffic pulling on and off the roadway make these changes appropriate and necessary for improving safety,” Mayor Jaron Rosien said in an email after the third reading.

Council Member Illa Earnest had floated plans to lower the road’s speed even further at previous city council meetings, but still voted to approve the third reading Tuesday night. Rosien said the option wasn’t permanently off the table.

“It is possible that council would consider additional changes,” he said. “But no such changes are currently on the council agenda, and are not likely until after budget season is complete.”

The change lowers outbound speed limit from 50 miles per hour and the inbound one from 55. Specifically, the adjustment would span an area starting 340 feet east of Airport Road and ending 1,020 feet east of Wiley Avenue, according to the new language in city code.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com