Prosper residents can expect no changes to the speed limit on SH 289 — known for most of its length as Preston Road — following a recent study by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
While drivers in Prosper will need to adjust to a lower speed limit, Celina residents can continue driving as usual following a city council vote this week.
The Study’s Findings
TxDOT’s study conducted along the stretch of road from US 380 (University Drive) to Business 289 (North Legacy Drive), measured vehicle speeds through Prosper and Celina to determine the 85th percentile speed — the speed at or below which most drivers travel.
The study revealed that drivers on Preston, between US 380 and FM 1461, typically travel between 50 and 55 mph, aligning with the current posted speed limit of 55 mph.
While TxDOT generally adjusts speed limits to match the 85th percentile, it also considers other factors such as roadway width, crash history and residential development before making any changes. In cases where safety concerns arise, speed limits can be reduced by up to 10 mph, or 12 mph in high-crash areas.
Prosper Speed Limit Will Be Reduced
This proposal lowers the speed limit by 5 mph from the current limit of 55 mph. Prosper City Council approved the recommendation and TxDOT will be responsible for installing the new speed limit signs.
“Given the developed nature of the area and the high number of driveways along this section of SH 289, TxDOT has recommended reducing the speed limit from 55 mph to 50 mph,” Prosper Director of Communications Todd Rice told Local Profile.
Celina Speed Limit Stays The Same
On March 11, 2025, Celina City Council rejected a proposed speed limit reduction along a segment of Preston Road between North Legacy Drive and East GA Moore Parkway, which falls within the city’s corporate limits.
The discussion stemmed from a resident's complaint in August 2024 about speeding in the area, particularly near the high school. Concerned for student safety, the resident requested that the speed limit be lowered from 55 mph to 45 mph. In response, city officials reached out to TxDOT, which conducted a speed study to assess actual driving speeds in the area. The study found that 85% of drivers were traveling at or below 50 mph, leading TxDOT to recommend a speed limit of 50 mph for that section of the road.
Supporters of the change emphasized the need for increased safety, especially for new drivers entering and exiting the high school. "The point of this is to force the speed limit down in front of the school so it's safer for those, particularly the new drivers that are turning in and out. That’s who we’re most concerned about," one city official told the council.
However, some council members opposed the reduction, with one calling it a “speed trap.” Others pointed out that upcoming traffic signals — one under design at Legacy and Preston, and another already in place at G.A. Moore and Preston — would naturally help regulate speeds. Ultimately, the council voted against making any speed limit changes.
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