By Chase Holmes, News Reporter
IRONDALE — The new roundabout at the intersection of Grantsmill Road and Old Leeds Road is set to open on Wednesday, August 16.
Photo of the new roundabout taken last Friday (Photo provided by Helen Hays)
The roundabout project began in February of 2022 in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) and will finally see drivers tomorrow, many of whom have potentially never used a roundabout before.
Helen Hays, Director of Public Information, said there are several benefits to a roundabout that informed the county’s decision to build one.
“One: safety. Intersections under roundabout control experience a decrease in crashes and a substantial decrease in property damage costs because all of the traffic is at an angle,” she said. “Two: Traffic flow is the close second benefit. Roundabouts reduce delays and idle time for drivers sitting at a light – its saves them time and also can reduce emissions – an environmental benefit.”
A specific time tomorrow for when the roundabout will be open has not yet been decided. Even after the roundabout opens, expect to see construction crews as work will continue until completion.
The Jefferson County Commission gave a few tips for those inexperienced with roundabouts.
Tips for navigating:
- Slow down when approaching
- Know what lane you need to be in before arriving at the roundabout.
- Always yield to traffic already in the circle
- Look left and proceed with caution when clear
- The right is designed for those turning right
- Do not change lanes in the roundabout
- If you miss your exit – go around again
Grantsmill Road and the new roundabout will be opening up later this week. Here are some tips on how to navigate it:
– Slow down as you near the roundabout
– Watch for other cars & yield to traffic in the circle
– Drive in the lane that corresponds to your exit pic.twitter.com/O2JikTkcWR— Jefferson County, AL (@JeffCoToday) August 14, 2023
The total cost of construction for the new roundabout is $16 million, per Jefferson County Commission.
