City Council Meeting Date: August 19, 2025
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: David E. Bennett Public Works Director/City Engineer
Title
Consider Resolution Approving a 20 MPH School Speed Zone on Jefferson Parkway by Bridgewater Elementary School.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council approves Resolution authorizing a 20 MPH School Speed Zone on Jefferson Parkway by Bridgewater Elementary School.
Summary Report:
In 2024, the City received a request for a school speed zone by Bridgewater Elementary School due to concerns with vehicle speeds and safety of students crossing Jefferson Parkway. The Traffic Safety Committee reviewed the request and recommended a study be performed to determine if a school speed zone should be established.
The City hired Bolten & Menk, Inc. to perform the school speed zone study (Attachment 2). The report followed MN Statute 169.14 relating to establishment of school speed zones along with the MnDOT Guidance for Establishing School Speed Limit Zones.
The study reviewed pedestrian crossing volumes, speeds, sight lines, crash history, and roadway geometry. The recommendation is to establish a 20 MPH school zone speed limit based on meeting criteria No. 1 in the Guide for Establishing School Speed Limit Zones.
Alternative Options:
Staff recommends the school speed zone of 20 mph as it will be consistent with Greenvale Elementary and Spring Creek Elementary schools.
Financial Impacts:
Under $1,000 for sign modifications.
Tentative Timelines:
School Zone would be implemented late August.