Drivers along part of MP Clark Road will soon need to slow down during school hours after Conroe City Council approved a new school zone July 9 for Willis ISD Elementary School No. 7, Ruth Castleschouldt Elementary School.
What we know
The school zone will cover the northbound and southbound lanes of MP Clark Road between Noble Pine Lane and John Burge Park Street. The speed limit will drop from 45 mph to 25 mph when the school zone is active, according to agenda documents.
City staff said the new elementary campus is expected to open Aug. 12.
Council approved the ordinance without opposition or additional discussion.
What you need to know
The reduced speed limit will apply Monday through Friday when school is in session during the following periods:
- Beginning 45 minutes before school starts through the start of classes
- During the school’s lunch period
- For 30 minutes beginning at dismissal
Flashing signals or signs displaying the hours of operation will notify drivers when the school-zone speed limit is in effect. Violations may carry a fine of up to $200.
Also of note
The school is being built east of MP Clark Road, about 1 mile south of FM 830 and 2 miles west of I-45. It is expected to initially serve about 900 students and is designed to eventually accommodate up to 1,000 students, per documents.
A traffic analysis projected the campus could generate about 675 daily trips during the morning peak period and 405 during the afternoon peak period during its opening year. However, the study found the surrounding roadway network has enough capacity to accommodate the expected traffic with recommended improvements, including a dedicated left-turn lane and median opening at the school’s main entrance.
