New Ooltewah-Georgetown roundabout should reduce crashes

October 11, 2017 at 1:00 a.m. | Updated October 9, 2017 at 10:13 p.m.

by Myron Madden

A stalled curbing and storm drain project is seen at a development at the intersection of Paul Huff Parkway and Georgetown Road on Monday, Aug. 24, 2015, in Cleveland, Tenn. Although not part of the official agenda, the Cleveland City Council was expected to vote Monday on officially acquiring right of way for the development that has already started, essentially developing private property with sidewalks, curbing and guttering. Work was recently halted
A stalled curbing and storm drain project is seen at a development at the intersection of Paul Huff Parkway and Georgetown Road on Monday, Aug. 24, 2015, in Cleveland, Tenn. Although not part of the official agenda, the Cleveland City Council was expected to vote Monday on officially acquiring right of way for the development that has already started, essentially developing private property with sidewalks, curbing and guttering. Work was recently halted

The daily commute for drivers along Ooltewah-Georgetown Road should soon be a little safer.

Since late last week, county crews have been working to replace the current stop sign with a roundabout where the thoroughfare meets Mountain View and Blanche roads.

The new traffic device, the construction of which will cost $1.4 million, is expected to ease congestion and reduce right-angle crashes at the intersection, which Hamilton County Communications Manager Mike Dunne said is an area where the general public and government officials alike have backed improvement.

While construction is ongoing, the east side of Ooltewah-Georgetown Road will be closed to thru-traffic and detour signs will be posted. Mountain View Road will remain open to north and southbound thru-traffic.

The speed limit through the construction zone is reduced, and motorists are encouraged to allow for extra travel time.

The road is scheduled to reopen Monday, Oct. 16.

Email Myron Madden at mmadden@timesfreepress.com

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