VAN WERT, Ohio (WLIO) — The Ohio Department of Transportation is seeking public feedback on plans for a third roundabout in Van Wert County.
ODOT District 1 is proposing a roundabout at the intersection of Van Wert Decatur Road and U.S. 224 on the west side of Van Wert. Construction is expected to begin in either 2028 or 2029, with the project estimated to cost just over $3.5 million.
ODOT officials said the intersection has experienced numerous crashes in recent years, and the project is intended to reduce severe and fatal crashes at the location.
The department is asking residents to provide feedback on an alternative design that would build an offset roundabout.
“That alternative is an offset roundabout at this little location. So kind of out of the way of the current roads. Does a couple things for us. So, for one thing, we're able to build a lot of that project offline and still maintain traffic. So, we'll be able to traffic will still be moving during the majority of the construction of the project. The other thing about this little location and this alternative does not require any work right of way. So, we're not acquiring any land and we're going to be able to build a lot of this and not disrupt traffic," says Chris Hughes, Deputy Director, ODOT District 1.
Hughes said roundabouts are one of the most effective tools available to improve safety at dangerous intersections.
The project manager for the proposal is Morgan Gerdeman.
Residents can submit feedback through the project website at www.transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/124413www.transportation.ohio.gov/projects/projects/124413 or use this QR code.
