Bladenboro, a rural community in Bladen County, is set to see changes at a notorious crossroads. The N.C. Department of Transportation is introducing a roundabout to the intersection of N.C. 131/410 at N.C. 211, ditching the traditional traffic signal, according to an announcement by the department.
The switch to a roundabout design is part of a move to enhance traffic flow and safety. Currently, drivers experience delays due to red lights, often when there is no cross traffic. The new roundabout will allow motorists to proceed with minimal interruption, provided they yield to those already navigating the circle. This design has proven effective in Dublin, where an intersection received a similar makeover in 2020, and has since seen a 79% decrease in severe crashes according to NCDOT.
With the backing of the Mid-Carolina Rural Planning Organization, and requests from Bladen County officials for improvements, the project aims to tackle the intersection's track record of 15 crashes with injuries over a five-year span. This roundabout also aligns with objectives to reduce environmental impacts by cutting down on engine idling, a feature that aligns with the federal Carbon Reduction Program objectives.
Awarded to BMCO Construction Co. of Lumberton, the project is worth $2 million and is scheduled to start construction in August. While the main work occurs, the intersection should remain open, although officials are asking drivers to proceed with caution, and be mindful of construction teams. "Drivers need only slow down, yielding to any traffic already in the circle before entering it. Signs and pavement markings easily guide drivers through the roundabout," said an NCDOT spokesperson in a statement that emphasizes the ease of transition for motorists. The completion of the roundabout is expected by next summer.
