DURHAM – A project to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Hope Valley Road and University Drive is nearing completion and is scheduled to reopen Monday, Nov. 11.
The project, which began in March and included the replacement of storm drainage, water and sewer lines, is expected to improve traffic flow along both roads.
On the average day, Hope Valley Road carries 11,500 vehicles a day through the intersection. The roundabout will keep traffic moving efficiently, even as the volume of traffic using the intersection grows in the future.
In addition to being more efficient, roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections because motorists slow down going through them, and the design eliminates the stop-and-go nature of stop signs or traffic lights.
According to a 2017 report from the Federal Highway Administration, converting an intersection from a traffic signal to a roundabout reduces severe crashes by 78 percent.
People can learn more and watch a video on using the circular intersection by visiting the N.C. Department of Transportation's roundabout webpage.