The City of Mandan has announced an upcoming change to speed limits in its school zones, with all zones set to increase from 15 mph to 20 mph. This adjustment, expected to take full effect by October 2026, aims to resolve a persistent inconsistency across the city’s school areas, where some zones are currently posted at 15 mph while others already maintain a 20 mph limit. Once the new signage is installed, every school zone within Mandan will share a uniform 20 mph speed limit, according to a statement released by the City of Mandan.
City officials state that a key objective of this speed limit increase is to enhance overall road safety, a rationale that may appear counterintuitive to some residents. City Engineer Jarek Wigness provided clarity on this decision, explaining that "speed limits matching the physical characteristics of the roadway will result in higher compliance." Wigness further elaborated that establishing a consistent speed across these zones is anticipated to minimize variations in vehicle speeds. This uniformity, he noted, is expected to create more predictable gaps between vehicles, thereby making movements such as turning onto or crossing roads within school zones safer for all, especially for the students who frequent these areas.
The current mixed speed limits can lead to a scenario where some drivers adhere strictly to 15 mph, while others might travel closer to 25 mph, creating an unpredictable and potentially hazardous environment. By standardizing all school zones to a 20 mph limit, the City of Mandan anticipates that drivers will be more inclined to maintain the posted speed consistently. This projected increase in driving pattern predictability is intended to mitigate risks for children crossing streets near schools, fostering a more secure environment for young pedestrians.
The new speed limit regulations will become active as soon as the updated signs are officially posted throughout the city. The City of Mandan projects that these new signs will be in place by October 15, 2026. While this initiative involves an increase in the designated speed limit, city officials have underscored that student and pedestrian safety remains their top priority. They strongly advise all drivers to continue exercising extreme caution when navigating school zones and to unfailingly yield to pedestrians using crosswalks, irrespective of the posted speed. This move by the City of Mandan is part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and predictability for all residents, including those in the surrounding Burleigh and Morton counties.
