Drivers throughout Healdsburg during the past week found their attention directed to speed limit signs by red flags, installed at the top of the signs. The flags were nearly ubiquitous, as existing speed limits all over town were adjusted down, in many cases, to conform with lower speeds set by the City Council about a year ago.
In fact, though the attention-getting flags were installed just a few days ago, the speed limits they signal went into effect in July 2025, one year ago. That came after a long process that included two City Council meetings in June 2025, followed by staff-prepared work orders for every speed limit sign in town. The work order process included visiting every location to confirm sight distances and potential conflicts with underground utilities.
“A widespread update like this takes time to implement carefully and effectively,” said Ray Holley, the city’s public information officer…