LUFKIN – After the completion of a recent speed study and reevaluation on a portion of roadway located on SH 7 East, TxDOT is recommending for approval the speed limit be lowered from 75 mph to 65 mph.
The section of SH 7 East that will be affected includes .3 miles east of SL 224 in Nacogdoches to Martinsville. The change also includes just east of Martinsville and continues on SH 7 through San Augustine County and will end at the Center city limitsin Shelby County.
TxDOT is required to evaluate speed limits periodically every five to 10 years. Speed studies are also conducted if requests are received on roadways that have not recently been evaluated. TxDOT received several requests for a new speed study on SH 7. As a result of that speed study, the Lufkin District is submitting for approval the recommendation that the speed limit be lowered.
A speed study consists of radar samples, an accident analysis and a review of existing roadway conditions. TxDOT uses a method referred to as the 85th percentile to determine speed limits. This method represents the speed at which the majority of drivers are traveling at or below for a particular section of highway. The 85th percentile is determined by radar samples of free flowing vehicles on an average week day during fair weather. The accident analysis consists of a review of the accident history over the past three years plus the current year. A thorough review of the accident history will reveal any patterns if present.
If the speed study reveals a reduction in speed is justified, recommendations are submitted for approval. The Texas Transportation Commission decides speed limits in Texas and if approved a minute order is issued establishing the new speed limit.
For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
