Lima, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 is moving forward with plans to construct two new roundabouts at intersections west of Lima in Allen County in an effort to reduce serious crashes and enhance roadway safety. The projects, set to be funded through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), will target two key intersections:
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State Route 117 and Kemp Road
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State Route 501 and Fort Amanda Road
According to safety studies, replacing traditional two-way stop intersections with roundabouts can reduce fatal and serious injury crashes by nearly 90 percent. Roundabouts improve safety by lowering vehicle speeds and decreasing the number of potential conflict points, making travel safer for all road users.
State Route 117 and Kemp Road Project Details
In 2024, ODOT conducted a safety study for the State Route 117 and Kemp Road intersection, which recommended a roundabout to address safety concerns. After reviewing multiple design alternatives, ODOT selected a single-lane elliptical roundabout placed just southeast of the existing intersection. This configuration minimizes impacts on nearby utilities and private property while providing smoother and safer traffic flow.
The estimated construction cost for the project is $2.7 million, with funding secured for construction in 2029 through Ohio’s HSIP program.
To explore the design and provide input, visit the project webpage at:
transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/122787
Project contact: Robert Mooney, 419-999-6987, [email protected]
State Route 501 and Fort Amanda Road Project Details
A similar safety study in 2024 evaluated the State Route 501 and Fort Amanda Road intersection. The findings led ODOT to recommend a single-lane, centered circular roundabout also located southeast of the current intersection. This option was chosen as the most efficient and cost-effective design, balancing safety improvements with minimized property disruption.
The estimated construction cost is $2.1 million, with the project also scheduled for 2029 construction, funded through the same state safety program.
More details can be found on the project webpage:
transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/122791
Project contact: Robert Mooney, 419-999-6987, [email protected]
Public Feedback Requested by January 9, 2026
Community members are invited to share feedback on either or both roundabout projects. While ODOT will accept input at any time, comments submitted by January 9, 2026, will be included in the official public input summary report.
Feedback can be submitted via the online comment forms available on each project webpage or by contacting project manager Robert Mooney directly. Those needing interpretation services or reasonable accommodations may also make requests through the project website or by contacting ODOT.
Property Considerations and Future Steps
Both projects may require temporary or permanent right-of-way acquisitions for construction purposes. If property needs are identified, a real estate representative will contact affected property owners directly to discuss next steps in the acquisition process.
By implementing these two new roundabouts, ODOT aims to not only improve traffic safety but also modernize key intersections in Allen County to better serve the Lima area and surrounding communities.
