New intersection is part of a $38.5 million project aimed at improving safety and traffic flow along U.S. 276.
(HAYWOOD COUNTY, N.C.) SMOKIES.LIVE — The North Carolina Department of Transportation has opened western North Carolina’s first multi-lane roundabout, marking a major milestone in an ongoing effort to improve safety and traffic flow in Haywood County.
The two-lane roundabout is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 19 and U.S. Route 276 near Jonathan Creek Elementary School.
The project completes the first phase of a $38.5 million contract to improve safety and mobility along the U.S. 276 corridor.
Construction crews with WNC Paving have begun additional roadway improvements between the roundabout and the school entrance. Officials hope to complete that work, including drainage upgrades and utility relocations, before the start of the school year on Aug. 17.
“We want to thank folks for their patience during construction and the positive feedback that we’ve seen since it opened for Independence Day weekend,” Division 14 Resident Engineer Kenny McCourt said in a statement. “It functions as expected, moving drivers through the area in less time with slower and safer speeds.”
McCourt said roundabouts are a proven safety measure that reduce the risk of serious and fatal crashes by slowing vehicle speeds and reducing conflict points.
Transportation officials said the new intersection is expected to improve traffic operations while enhancing safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists, particularly in the area surrounding the elementary school.
Drivers are encouraged to slow down, yield to traffic already circulating in the roundabout, choose the correct lane before entering and follow all posted signs and pavement markings. Officials also remind motorists to watch for pedestrians and cyclists using designated crossings and to avoid stopping inside the roundabout except when yielding.
Additional construction along U.S. 276 will continue as crews complete the remaining phases of the corridor improvement project. Motorists should expect changing traffic patterns and are urged to obey traffic signs and directions from flaggers while traveling through the work zone.
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