
By Alexander Shedd
Construction is finally wrapping up on the new traffic circle at the intersection of Routes 311 and 419 at Hanging Rock. While some lanes are still being finished, the traffic circle is now open for regular commuters.
βIt was a huge pain in the neck,β said Mona, an associate at the Hanging Rock Xpress Stop. βBusiness was slowβ¦ but itβs picked back up since the circle opened.β
The intersection sees major daily traffic as part of the regular commute for those coming to and from Craig County. VDOT estimates that approximately 14,000 vehicles use this intersection every day. The addition of the large traffic circle has been difficult to adjust to for some.
βPeople donβt know how to use the traffic circle,β Mona added, gesturing toward the VDOT crews still finishing their work in the heat. βThey go in the wrong wayβ¦ how can you not see the βDo Not Enterβ signs?β
βIt hit us big,β commented Orange Marketβs Bob Pinnell. Referring to the marketβs full parking lot, he continued, βSee these cars? Thereβd only be maybe two out there during the construction. Gas was hit hard too. It was roughβ¦ Coming from [the direction of the Hanging Rock Battlefield Monument], itβs the difference of ten minutes to two minutes.β
VDOT previously stated that the goal of the project was to βconstruct a roundabout that will enhance safety, improve traffic flow and cost less to build and maintain. The project will also improve and resurface the nearby park and ride lot, add paved shoulders for bicycle use and pedestrian crosswalks to connect to the Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail.β VDOT has also added on the official webpage for the project that, although the circle is now open, βdrivers should still expect nighttime lane closures with flaggers between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday around the roundabout for final paving, pavement marking and sign installation.β
The $2.4 million dollar contract for the project was awarded to Roanoke contractor E.C. Pace in February.