Mullan Road Speed Limit Lowered From 45 to 35 Miles Per Hour [DOCUMENT]

After Chance Geery, 18, was killed by a distracted driver while walking on the sidewalk by Mullan Road on April 1, grieving family and friends appealed to the city of Missoula and other officials for a change in the speed limit from 45 to 35 miles per hour.

The same change in speed limits was made on Rattlesnake Drive between Cornerstone and Aspen Drive. A news release from the city states that Missoula City Council members discussed the changes following numerous requests. Council members were concerned about heavy pedestrian and bicycle use in the urban core on Mullan Road, and because of inadequate transportation facilities and wildlife hazards on Rattlesnake Drive.

The reductions are temporary pending speed studies to be conducted by city crews under the direction of City Engineer Kevin Slovarp. The Montana Transportation Commission must approve any speed limit changes for streets that are part of the Montana Transportation Department urban roadway system. The city engineer's office hopes to complete the studies in time for the commission meeting in September.