Ohio

Athens County interchange built in 1958 set to undergo major changes to improve safety and traffic efficiency

Athens, Ohio – A major safety improvement project at the U.S. 33/State Route 682 interchange in Athens County is set to begin on February 3. This project will convert the ramp intersections into roundabouts, an upgrade aimed at reducing crashes, improving traffic flow, and addressing sight distance limitations.

Why Roundabouts Are Being Introduced

The U.S. 33/State Route 682 interchange was originally built in 1958 and has remained largely unchanged since then, apart from the addition of a traffic signal in 1999 at the westbound ramp intersection. The eastbound exit ramp is currently controlled by a stop sign, while the westbound ramp relies on a traffic light.

From 2017 to 2022, the interchange ramp intersections recorded nine crashes, prompting the need for safety upgrades. Studies by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) have shown that roundabouts can reduce crashes by 44% at stop-controlled intersections and lower serious injury or fatal crashes by nearly 90%. When replacing traffic signals, roundabouts reduce total crashes by 48% and deadly or serious injury crashes by almost 80%.

Project Scope and Traffic Impact

As part of the project, intersections at Sunset Lane and Whispering Pines Drive will also be incorporated into the new roundabouts to maintain both east and west access to SR 682 from those roads.

The new design is expected to:

  • Improve traffic flow with fewer delays compared to traditional stop signs and traffic signals.
  • Increase safety by reducing high-speed collisions at the ramps.
  • Address limited sight distance issues for traffic approaching from the eastbound exit ramp.

Drivers can expect lane closures throughout the construction period, with temporary traffic signals or flaggers directing vehicles. Future ramp closures will also take place as different phases of the project progress.

Timeline for Completion

Construction is scheduled to be completed by October, with work progressing in multiple phases to minimize disruptions.

Motorists traveling through the area are encouraged to stay alert and follow all posted signs and detour instructions during the project. Once completed, the new roundabouts are expected to provide safer and more efficient travel for all road users.

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