Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
The current traffic signal was installed as a temporary span wire signal to address increased traffic along CO 83 during the construction of the I-25 South GAP Monument to Castle Rock project, with the intention of removing it after construction. With the completion of the I-25 GAP project, the intersection no longer meets the required warrants for a traffic signal.
Additionally, as provided on the project website, recently collected crash data shows that crashes have continued to occur at the intersection after the traffic signal was installed. An analysis of the crash data indicates there is a moderate to high potential for crash reduction with improvements at the intersection. The roundabout is being proposed as a proven safety measure that will also provide improved traffic operations that could otherwise not be accomplished at this intersection.
The project team evaluated future traffic volumes projected at the intersection and found that by the year 2045 the roundabout will operate with significantly less delay than a traffic signal. During peak traffic hours, vehicles entering from County Line Road will enter the roundabout with gaps that are created by turning vehicles exiting the roundabout (see the project website for a video illustrating how only a small gap in traffic creates enough space for a vehicle to enter a roundabout). The traffic analysis shows there will be less delay for drivers on County Line Road when compared to a traffic signal. And during low volume hours, drivers will be able to immediately enter the roundabout and turn onto CO 83 without having to wait for a green light.
The project team is giving particular emphasis to the visibility of roundabout with the proposed design. Key features such as warning signs, raised medians on the approaches, a raised central island, and lighting are all being included to provide advance notice for drivers to recognize the roundabout with ample time to decelerate to the roundabout safe speed of approximately 20 mph.
