By Logan Wells, News Director | Logan@kymnradio.net
As the 2024 construction season winds to a close, contractors are finishing the new roundabout at the Hwy. 19/I-35 interchange.
As the 2024 construction season winds to a close, contractors are finishing the new roundabout at the Hwy. 19/I-35 interchange.
According to Rice County Design/Construction Engineer Bill Zidon, only some minor punch list items remain. That includes seeding and striping, which are expected to be completed by the end of the month. No future closures are anticipated.
With some areas adjacent to driving lanes still needing to be addressed, county officials urge motorists to continue to use extra caution in the area as contractors wrap up the project.
Rice County Highway Department staff led the $4.77 million six-legged roundabout, which was funded largely through grants. The roundabout was designed to improve safety on the east side of the interchange. Traffic volumes at the interchange have increased in recent years, particularly following the opening of the Flying J Travel Center.
Roundabouts not only lower speeds and calm traffic, they greatly reduce the likelihood of side-impact crashes when compared to a controlled or signalized intersection. Side-impact crashes are considered the deadliest.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, over 10,000 roundabouts have been installed across the U.S.
