A steep hill, heavy trucks and a bridge used by pedestrians have Linn Grove officials pushing for drivers to slow down.
The Buena Vista County Board of Supervisors tabled a proposed speed limit resolution Tuesday, giving county officials and the city more time to work out the details.
Linn Grove City Council Member Denny Graesing presented the request during the board’s meeting at the county courthouse in Storm Lake. The proposal focuses on County Highway M36 or Weaver Street, where it crosses the Little Sioux River in Linn Grove.
Graesing told supervisors the downhill approach to the bridge creates concerns for pedestrians and drivers, particularly when loaded semitrailers travel through town. People walking across the area must also cross the road to reach the bridge’s pedestrian walkway.
The city wants a more gradual reduction in speed approaching the bridge. Supervisors discussed a possible transition from 45 to 35 and then 25 miles per hour closer to the bridge. They also considered lowering the approach speed outside town from 60 to 55 miles per hour.
The proposed speed limits and sign locations have not been finalized.
Linn Grove has purchased flashing speed-feedback signs that display drivers’ speeds as they approach. The city wants to install signs on both approaches to the bridge and asked the county to provide the posts needed for installation.
Graesing also told supervisors the city has contacted the Buena Vista County Sheriff’s Office about speeding, but enforcement has been limited.
Supervisors expressed support for the proposed safety improvements but said they need to establish precise sign locations and ensure drivers have enough distance to slow down safely on the steep grade.
The board agreed to have county staff work with Graesing to measure and mark the proposed sign locations. Supervisors would then have an opportunity to drive through the area and review the layout before considering a more detailed, revised resolution.
