Today, Iowa’s speed limit on some of the county and state paved roads within Iowa are increasing from 55 mph to 60 mph.

This was signed into law on June 1, and raises the speed limit on paved county roads and some state roads. But as the change goes into effect, drivers need to be aware that not all roads will see a change.

Gravel roads are not affected. They remain 55 mph during the day and 50 mph at night.

The increase in the speed limit does not apply everywhere, and drivers are urged to continue to follow the speed limit postings along the highway.

In Hamilton County, the work to change the speed limit signs will not happen overnight.

Hamilton County Engineer Ryan Weideman urges people to use caution as they travel the county roads.

“Counties were never consulted in the decision to raise the rural speed limit on hard surface roads,” he said, “I advise all motorists to use caution and good judgement before traveling faster on rural highways. We have done everything possible to prepare for the change in the very short time we were given.”

The engineer’s office has been busy studying the situation throughout Hamilton County. Weideman said they prioritized safety and will make adjustments as he noted below:

n “We analyzed all horizontal curves that did not have a pre-existing advisory speed. If the analysis showed it was unsafe at 60 MPH, we are placing a 55 MPH advisory. These signs should be installed on or within a few days of July 1.

n “We analyzed the distance for stop ahead warning signs to ensure they are safe for 60 mph. Fortunately the vast majority were placed well in excess of the minimum required distance.

n “The regulatory 55 mph signs are being modified to 60 mph using an approved sticker.

n “We will be analyzing no passing zone lengths in the coming months; there are nearly 600 in the county. Of the locations checked so far, all are safe for 60 mph.”

As signage is gradually changed out, Weideman said there is still a lot to consider.

“The long-term effects, such as how the increased speed will influence design standards, are unknown but will undoubtedly lead to increased project costs for resurfacing and bridge replacement projects on county highways.”