Drivers in Henry County will notice several changes on area roadways following new traffic resolutions passed by the Board of Supervisors and the Mount Pleasant City Council this week. The adjustments are aimed at improving safety, consistency, and traffic flow in and around the communities of Salem and Mount Pleasant.
Salem Speed Zone Adjustments Finalized
The Henry County Board of Supervisors approved Resolution 2025-25, establishing new speed limits for all four paved routes leading into the City of Salem. The changes follow a comprehensive speed study conducted by County Engineer Jake Hotchkiss, in coordination with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and City of Salem officials.
Key changes include:
- 40 mph transition zones will now begin roughly 500 to 1,000 feet before entering city limits.
- 25 mph limits will apply throughout Salem city limits, providing a uniform speed standard.
- The previously posted 20 mph speed limit around the city square will be eliminated for consistency, aligning with the citywide 25 mph limit.
- New flashing speed feedback signs and pedestrian beacons will be installed near the school crosswalk to enhance pedestrian safety, especially for students.
Hotchkiss noted that the updates are designed to reduce confusion for drivers and create a safer environment for both motorists and pedestrians.
In Mount Pleasant, the City Council gave final approval to three ordinance amendments during their most recent meeting, affecting parking rules, stop signage, and speed limits.
- Parking Restriction on Plum Street
A revision to Chapter 12 of the city code now prohibits parking along Plum Street between North Main and North Abbott Street. The measure was approved unanimously to improve visibility and traffic flow in the area. - New Stop Signs on Harvest Drive
Stop signs will be installed for both northbound and southbound traffic at the intersection of Harvest Drive and South Walnut Street, addressing concerns about intersection safety. - Speed Limit Increase on South Walnut Street
The council also approved raising the speed limit to 35 mph on South Walnut Street, from Harvest Drive to the southern city limits. Officials say the change is meant to enhance safety and help reduce dust along the route. This ordinance also received unanimous support.
These coordinated updates reflect ongoing efforts by local officials to address traffic concerns, standardize regulations, and make travel safer for area residents.