In an attempt to uniquely herald the start of construction in Othello, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) channeled the Bard with a rhyme on social media. The intersection of State Route 26 and First Avenue is set to transform into a roundabout, aiming to provide a safer journey for both pedestrians and drivers. WSDOT's playful announcement read, "Where First and SR 26 converge, In Othello, a circle shall emerge. A roundabout to calm the roadway’s pace, And lend both foot and wheel a safer space."
Work on the roundabout began on August 4 and is scheduled to run until mid-October, with working hours from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, according to WSDOT's Facebook post. Drivers should be prepared to quickly adapt to detours, alternating traffic, and expect the appearance of flaggers. Traffic signals will be actively maintained to direct the flow during the project duration, including weekends and off-work hours.
The inherent risk at busy intersections has prompted this infrastructure change. Roundabouts are known for reducing the severity of collisions by eliminating the potential for high-speed T-bone and head-on crashes. The safety features of roundabouts extend beyond vehicular incidents; they also provide a more secure environment for those on foot navigating the crossroads.
Upon completion, the project will also result in Columbia and Wahluke streets being reconfigured into two-way streets. The goal is to improve the overall traffic flow and enhance pedestrian safety in this growing local hub. For those interested in learning more or following the progress of the construction, WSDOT encourages the public to visit the project's webpage for the latest updates and information.
