Fruitvale Boulevard & 5th Avenue Roundabout Project

A Roundabout will soon be constructed at the intersection of Fruitvale Boulevard and 5th Avenue. Construction will take approximately a month and a detour route will be in place until the project is complete.

What is a Roundabout?

Why Build A Roundabout at this location?
Safety, Convenience and Efficiency! A Roundabout will improve safety and operation of the current intersection. At this time, making left turns from Fruitvale Boulevard are very difficult and confusing for many drivers. Delay to turning vehicles is often significant, as they wait at the intersection. A Roundabout will equalize the delay for all drivers and reduce the speeds of vehicles in the intersection, which will reduce collision injuries. The existing traffic control at this location is no longer effective with increased traffic volumes.

Roundabouts are becoming more common in the State of Washington where 48 have been constructed since 1997. The Washington State Drivers Manual also includes instructions regarding traffic safety and laws for driving in Roundabouts. http://www.dol.wa.gov/ds/guide/guide3.htm#Control

Why Not Just Install a Traffic Signal?
A roundabout has less vehicle delay than a traffic signal. A traffic signal would impose longer periods of stopped traffic especially for the heavy volumes of Northbound 5th Avenue left turn vehicles. Improved air quality and fuel efficiency is another result of less idling vehicles. Slower vehicle speeds in the intersection improve traffic safety. Roundabouts have fewer collisions than signalized intersections. Once constructed, the cost to maintain the roundabout is less than a traffic signal.

Will there be a Detour?
Yes, while the Roundabout is under construction, traffic will be routed around the intersection for about a month. The map illustrates the Detour Route.

Driving Basics

1. SLOW DOWN: Drivers must slow down as you approach the intersection. The Roundabout is designed for vehicles to travel at 15 Miles Per Hour while in the intersection.
2. YIELD: All vehicles must YIELD to traffic already in the Roundabout. YIELD to cyclists and pedestrians crossing the street. Enter the Roundabout when there is an adequate gap in traffic.
3. RIGHT TURNS ONLY: All vehicles make only right turns in the Roundabout and this is the primary reason the Roundabout is safe and efficient. Drivers must make a right turn to enter the Roundabout and a right turn to leave the Roundabout. There is no conflicting traffic in the intersection.

For More Information, Call City Engineering, 575-6111

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