Roundabout construction is set to move into its second phase on Tuesday, Sept. 2, according to the state Department of Transportation.
An NYSDOT news release Wednesday, Aug. 27 stated that beginning Tuesday, drivers should expect Phase 2 to be underway at the intersection of the city of Oneonta’s James F. Lettis Highway and Main Street. Weather permitting, it stated this phase of construction is expected to last one to two months.
Lettis Highway south is set to close to all traffic, according to the news release, and “northbound traffic will not be able to turn onto Main Street eastbound.” The rest of the intersection will be open.
There will be separate detour signage for cars and truck to follow.
“Motorists are urged to slow down and drive responsibly in work zones,” the news release stated. “Fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. Convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver license.”
NYSDOT spokesperson Daniel Scharfenberger said Wednesday that Phase 1 of the roundabout is “substantially complete.” Construction will begin to focus on the ramps on each side of Lettis Highway next week.
“Once finished, roundabout work will continue with a topcoat of pavement, striping, drainage and landscaping,” Scharfenberger said. “The project is on-schedule to be completed by the end of November.”
According to Daily Star archives, the goal is to convert the intersection at Lettis Highway and Main Street to a single-lane roundabout. Additionally, new signage and lighting would be installed to make the space safer for pedestrians.
Phase 1 started in late May and was expected to last about three months.
Andrew Stiles, regional director for NYSDOT Region 9, said in April that the traffic signal’s service life was coming to a close at the intersection. When there is discussion about whether or not to replace a traffic signal, officials may consider a roundabout.
He said the roundabout would function better in the area so “traffic can flow more smoothly at lower traffic speed and make the intersection safer.”
In April, local business owners had noted some concerns about the project and its effect on their businesses.
“It is the mission of the New York State Department of Transportation to provide a safe, reliable, equitable, and resilient transportation system that connects communities, enhances quality of life, protects the environment, and supports the economic well-being of New York State,” Wednesday’s news release stated.