The streets of South Tempe have taken a turn towards increased safety with the recent completion of a $1.4 million roundabout. Nestled between the Saddle Rock Ridge and Copperleaf neighborhoods, the new traffic feature on South Tempe Street was designed to tackle the speeding issue and bolster both vehicular and pedestrian well-being. As reported by Arapahoe County, the roundabout commenced operation for northbound and southbound traffic on August 10, marking the end of a construction period that spanned just over two months.
Prioritizing the commencement of the new school year, the county managed to quickly complete the roundabout before students returned to the classrooms. "We are excited this roundabout is now open as it will reduce vehicle speed along this roadway and improve vehicular and pedestrian safety," County Transportation Division Manager Jim Katzer stated, as per Arapahoe County. He extended appreciation to the local community for their patience during the project's duration. Starting at the end of May, West Fork Construction stepped in to shut down Tempe Street traffic between East Pennwood Avenue and East Progress Avenue, speeding up the process by a significant three months.
The inception of this roundabout was a key element within the Versailles Parkway Study, an initiative responding to the collective concern over speed and safety on the streets that weave through the Saddle Rock Ridge subdivision. South Versailles Parkway, Powers Avenue, and Tempe Street have been under the microscope for these issues, and the new roundabout stands as a testament to the county’s persistent efforts to enhance road safety.
