MIDLAND-ODESSA, TX (KWES) - Over a year ago after hearing from the public and witnessing multiple fatalities, the Texas Department of Transportation began conducting speed studies on the 38 mile stretch of Interstate 20 in Midland and Ector County.
"This was an area that we saw a crash rate that was above the state average for similar roadways," said Gene Powell, public information officer for the Odessa District with TXDOT said.
In conclusion to their study, TXDOT decided to seek out a reduction from the current speed of 75 to 65 miles per hour.
"Our goal is a safer corridor for motorists. We hope that people obey the speed limit. We hope it will help bring the crash rate down and make it an easy and safer corridor to travel through," said Powell.
The new speed limit was approved by the Texas Transportation Commission late last year and will affect the stretch of road between FM 1208 and Moss Road. Construction zone speeds will remain the same.
TXDOT says this was the best decision for the road after evaluating studies, accident history and types of ramps on the road. Now they just want the public to follow the new signs.
All agencies of law enforcement are aware of the new speed limit and will be enforcing it accordingly.
The new signs will be posted on February 1.
