Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director Peter Alviti, Jr. joined state and local leaders recently to mark the completion of a roundabout project on Route 138.
The $6.5 million project was completed this fall, seven months ahead of schedule, in Richmond. The roundabout replaces a traditional intersection between Route 138, Route 112 and Carolina Nooseneck Road. Officials said the replacement was necessary after a fatal accident at the intersection.
“Safety is our highest priority at RIDOT,” Director Alviti said. “We were pleased to complete these improvements for the citizens of Richmond and all travelers along this busy corridor across South County.”
RIDOT also changed the traffic configuration on Richmond Townhouse Road to operate one way eastbound forcing all traffic heading northbound on Route 112 to use the roundabout. RIDOT said the transition made connecting to Route 138 safer. Additional improvements included new sidewalks on Route 138 and stormwater treatment improvements.
Officials said the roundabout will reduce speeds and calm traffic going through the town, increasing the safety near Richmond Elementary School which is located near the intersection.
“The roundabout is a welcome addition to our community,” Town Council President Mark Trimmer said. “Not only has it helped slow traffic down through this commercial corridor and keep people safe, its clean and attractive design has become a welcoming gateway for our community.”
Officials said the section of Route 138 sees about 9,500 vehicles per day.
The project was funded by RhodeWorks, the state’s ongoing commitment to repair structurally deficient bridges and bring transportation infrastructure into a state of good repair.