Changes are based on a safety study and are intended to better align posted speeds with current highway conditions
Drivers on U.S. 395 in and around Hermiston will see new speed limit signs installed over the coming weeks as ODOT implements approved speed zone changes along the corridor.
The changes are based on a detailed engineering investigation that evaluated crash history, traffic patterns and how the highway is used today. Initiated by ODOT with support from the City of Hermiston, the study found that several sections of U.S. 395 have higher-than-average crash rates compared to similar highways. It also found that the corridor functions differently than it did when many of the current speed limits were established, with more businesses, intersections, traffic signals and turning movements, particularly near Hermiston.
The updated speed zones are intended to better align posted speeds with current conditions and improve safety. In general, that means lower speeds in more developed areas while maintaining higher speeds in rural segments where appropriate.
ODOT expects to begin installing new speed limit signs during the week of June 22. Because the changes cover multiple segments of U.S. 395, installation will take several weeks to complete. Drivers should be aware that speed limits may change in one area before work is completed in another.
Once a new speed limit sign is installed, the posted speed becomes the legal speed limit for that section of highway.
Travelers are encouraged to watch for new signs and obey posted speed limits.
|
