Speed signs sometimes can be confusing, so it pays to know the rules.
Q. Since we had our portion of Bass Road (west of Scott Road) paved, the speed limit sign in the westbound lane of Bass reads, “Speed Limit No Longer 45.” Can you help get the sign changed to a 55 mph sign? – Mari B
A. Unfortunately, Mari, you’re likely going to have to get used to the sign.
Mike Eckert, the Allen County Highway Department technical services manager, said the sign reads “End 45 Speed Limit.”
This allows drivers to determine a safe speed with a maximum of 55 mph – as set by state law.
While this would likely be clearer with a simple 55 mph sign, these type of signs aren’t rare. I have seen numerous signs reading “End Speed Zone” or “Resume Legal Speed.” I have to imagine they are written that way for a reason.
The only one that comes to mind is if the state were to change the statutory speed, say from 55 mph to 60 mph, counties wouldn’t be forced to change hundreds, if not thousands, of speed limit signs.
So while this doesn’t alleviate confusion, or possible frustration at slower drivers, you will probably just have to get used to it. Just make sure to keep up with how the state sets its speed limits.
Q. There is a short section of West Dupont Road, the 5700 to 5800 blocks, that seems to have been forgotten. In the spring the county repaired it with patches, but within two months all the potholes were back. Any help? Tom Kelble, of Fort Wayne
A. Randy Knach, Allen County Highway Department north barn supervisor, said the department checked this section of road and found patches just west of the Fritz Road intersection.
Knach said it appears water might not properly drain away from the road’s foundation.
He said it has been patched from time to time, but the road is not considered a danger to motorists.
Q. Hi, I think it would be helpful if there were brown informational signs on Smith Road, approaching the intersection with Yohne Road, pointing to Fox Island Park. Who would be in charge of placing these? Cynthia Powers
A. The simple answer, Cynthia, is Allen County.
Eckert, with the county highway department, said crews looked at the area and are working on new signs and locations in the area. This will include Smith Road north and south of Yohne.
This should make it easier to find your way to the park, especially as cross-country ski season approaches.
Radio Sage
This week’s audio question comes from Susan Tate, who asks about a school zone on U.S. 30 in Whitley County. The segment originally aired Friday afternoon and can be found online at www.journalgazette.net/roadsage.
