ODOT proposes roundabout on SR 235

Pike Township, Ohio (WDTN) - One of the state's most dangerous intersections is State Route 235 and State Route 41 in Clark County.

For decades, transportation officials have been working to make this particular intersection safer. They've installed stop signs, traffic lights and rumble strips to get the attention of motorists with some success.

But with five deaths there since 1992, ODOT officials are now considering a new plan to build a single-lane, circular intersection that will require motorists to slow down to about 30 MPH and yield to traffic inside the roundabout.

One of the first roundabouts in the state to handle high speeds, ODOT officials say it will be built to accommodate truck and farm equipment as well.

ODOT says the changes are needed as 7,500 vehicles use the rural  intersection each day. They anticipate that volume will increase to over 10,000 vehicles per day by 2034.

Construction of the $1.5 million project is expected to begin in 2014.

ODOT officials are considering closing the intersection for about 30 to 45 days but no decision has been made.  

They're looking for local input on this roundabout concept which is gaining in popularity across the country.

They are hosting an informational meeting on Tuesday, Jan 29 at 4 p.m. at the Pike Township Fire Station.