SANDPOINT — The speed limit on the Sandpoint Byway remains at 45 miles per hour, despite a recent sign installation that suggests the limit has been raised to 55 miles per hour, Idaho Transportation Department officials said Wednesday.

ITD officials clarified the speed limit in an email to the Bonner County Daily Bee after community members raised awareness of the recent speed limit change on U.S. 95 just north of the Long Bridge. The increase was premature, according to public information officer Heather McDaniel, and will officially take place after the department completes its guardrail repair work.  

An official change to the speed limit is expected to occur during the week of Sept. 21.

“The speed limit has been 45 mph through the byway since it was completed in 2010. ITD's previous analysis determined that a higher speed limit could be appropriate, but guardrail deficiencies and bridge approach issues needed to be addressed before the speed limit could be increased,” McDaniel said.  

The change will apply from the north end of the Long Bridge to Tibbets Lane in Ponderay.  

ITD officials said drivers should continue to observe the 45 miles per hour speed limit and to watch for crews, equipment, and temporary traffic control measures while the work zone is active.