Resolution No. 17-01A

WHEREAS, the maximum legal speed limit for motorists on municipal roads is 80 kph unless otherwise posted; and

WHEREAS, it seems a large percentage of motorists are not aware of the maximum speed limit on municipal roads and are under the impression that it is higher than 80 kph; and

WHEREAS, higher speeds on municipal roads increase hazards such as dust, road surface damage, damage to vehicles due to flying rocks, single vehicle accidents, etc; and

WHEREAS, legislation and regulations regarding municipal roads falls mainly under the jurisdiction of Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that SARM request Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation implement a public education campaign via newspaper and/or television and radio advertisements reminding motorists that the maximum speed limit on municipal roads is 80 kph unless otherwise posted.

Response from Hon. Pat Atkinson:

The department recognizes that road name signs provide and "address" for our rural residents of the province. The cost charged to the applicant for the signs is based on the principle of cost recovery only. The costs are calculated by using and average-cost formula. Therefore, every RM is charged in the same manner, no matter where they are located in the province or the installation logistics of the individual signing request.

If the department assumed responsibility for the road name signs, it would cost the department approximately $3.5 million to install signs at all Main Farm Access, Grid and Primary Grid Roads intersecting with provincial highways throughout the province.