Neighborhood Speed Limits & Traffic Management

Overview

This guide outlines:

• How speed limits are established

• Why Georgetown does not use speed bumps

• How residents can request a speed limit change

• How to submit a Traffic Management Study through the NTMP 

How Speed Limits Are Established - Speed limits in Georgetown are based on:

• 85th Percentile Study: Evaluates the speed at which 85% of drivers travel safely.

• State Regulations: Ensures compliance with Texas state law.

• City Ordinances: Officially adopt and enforce speed limits.

Default Residential Speed Limit:

• 30 mph, unless a different speed is posted.

Speed Bumps / Speed Humps - Georgetown generally does not install speed bumps because:

• They slow emergency response times for fire, police, and EMS.

• Drivers may speed up between bumps, reducing their overall safety benefit.

• Studies show inconsistent effectiveness in long-term speed reduction.

Requesting a Speed Limit Change - To request a change, residents should know:

• A traffic engineering study is required.

• If approved, City Council amends the ordinance to set the new limit.

• Changes must align with engineering standards and state regulations.

Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP) - The NTMP addresses resident concerns related to:

• Roadway design

• Crosswalks and pedestrian ramps

• Bicycle facilities

• Traffic flow and neighborhood safety 

Eligible applicants include:

• Groups of residents

• Homeowners Associations (HOAs)

• Businesses or schools

• Any entity located within the proposed study area 

Applicants must be willing to:

• Serve as the main point of contact for the request

• Notify and engage the neighborhood/community

• Submit supporting evidence (photos, observations, or other documentation)

• Participate in design discussions if improvements are recommended

How to Apply

• The NTMP application is available online through the City’s website

• Applications are reviewed by Transportation staff based on established criteria

City Authority

• The City of Georgetown retains full authority to determine necessary changes to traffic control and infrastructure.

• All decisions follow the City of Georgetown Code of Ordinances and recognized engineering standards.