Pictured is one of four new solar-powered speed limit signs recently installed on Fourth and Hamacher Streets in Waterloo. (Corey Saathoff photo)

New flashing speed limit signs on Fourth and Hamacher streets were recently installed in the name of safety near some key Waterloo school zones, it was learned during last week’s meeting of the Waterloo City Council.

Four solar-powered signs were recently put into operation as part of a “Safe Routes to School” grant to the city that also included sidewalk and crosswalk improvements near Zahnow Elementary and Waterloo Junior High schools.

The yellow speed limit signs are located on each end of Fourth Street between Rogers Street and Parkwood Drive near Gardner Elementary, and also on Hamacher Street between Rogers Street and Bellefontaine Drive near Zahnow.

Waterloo public works director Tim Birk said the signs have a built-in radar to detect vehicle speed and displays it in bright-colored numbers as a reminder to exercise caution in school zones. If a particular motorist is exceeding the posted speed limit, a strobe light will flash to alert the driver to slow down.

“They’re just kind of informational to advise people to be careful when driving in those areas,” Birk said. “It’s a nice asset to have in this community.”

Waterloo school superintendent Brian Charron expressed his approval for the new signs.

“I am very thankful to the city of Waterloo for the placement of the speed limit signs near our schools,” Charron said. “It serves as a great reminder to check our speed and pay more attention to what matters most.”

In other city council news, aldermen approved a facade grant application for Randy’s Double R Bar at 107 S. Main Street. The grant amount covers up to $10,000 toward exterior improvements. The project is estimated at about $36,000.

Randy’s Double R Bar will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a party from 6 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13.

The council also agreed to a one-year commitment with the newly formed Monroe County Economic Development Corporation at the builder level of $10,000. Waterloo receives a board member as part of its commitment.

The next meeting of the Waterloo City Council is set for 7:30 p.m. Monday, July 18, at City Hall.