Town of Preston to Shift Some Speed Limits

PRESTON – In a Facebook post on Wednesday morning, the Town of Preston announced several town streets’ speed limits and guidelines.

“These changes have been enacted in accordance with Maryland Transportation Code § 21-803, which grants local authorities the right to alter maximum speed limits based on public safety, neighborhood road design, and local pedestrian traffic,” the post stated.

One of the changes is the re-designation of Noble Avenue to a school zone. As such, the official speed limit will be 15 miles per hour – a change from the original 10 – during school hours. Outside of the regular school day, the speed limit will be 25 miles per hour.

Additionally, Apple Lane, Lednum Avenue, Williamson Street, Mill Street, and Tidewater Circle / Hughlett Street will get new signage to reflect the new 25 mile per hour speed limit. These streets are currently 15 miles per hour.

These changes will be effective October 5, or until accurate signage has been installed.

“The State Traffic Code mandates a standard statutory speed limit of 25 miles per hour for this class of municipal roadway,” Town Manager Amber Korell explained, “aligning local limits with state laws ensures that traffic regulations are legally enforceable and consistent for all drivers.” Preston’s Public Works Department will be replacing the signage over the next few weeks.

Preston Town Commissioners voted to amend these speed limits at their September 14 Town meeting. Korell stated that the Commissioners plan to research and implement more “traffic calming measures like children at play signs, speed tables and solar powered speed limit signs.”