A roundabout was chosen over a traffic signal for three reasons: (1) Roundabouts are statistically safer than traffic signals. A trade-off occurs between high speed, T-bone collisions and lower speed side swipe and rear end collisions. Furthermore, there are fewer conflict points at a single lane roundabout as compared to a traffic signal. A conflict point occurs when two vehicles can occupy the same place at the same time, thus causing a collision; (2) The horizontal curves north and south of this intersection along Whittaker Road historically have been prone to crashes. WCRC was successful in securing a safety grant to enhance this area by reducing speeds in the intersection vicinity through the use of a roundabout. With the traffic signal alternative, drivers may feel compelled to ‘beat the red light.’ This action sometimes increases vehicular speeds above the posted speed limit. This can result in similar crashes occurring at the two curves; (3) with a traffic signal, delay is present 24 hours a day when a driver encounters a red light. At a roundabout, less delay occurs, especially at off-peak hours, due to the yield condition. This aspect is also a benefit to the environment since fewer vehicle emissions are placed into the air.
This project is tentatively scheduled to begin in June 2016. The Whittaker at Merritt Road intersection will be closed to traffic. The detour route will be Textile Rd – Hitchingham Rd – Bemis Rd – Whittaker Rd – Martz Rd – Tuttle Hill Rd.
At the construction information meeting, residents and commuters will have an opportunity to learn details about the project, including proposed detour routes, residents’ access to their property during construction, and projected timelines. Audience members will also be able to ask questions to staff members.
What: An informational meeting to discuss various construction details for the upcoming intersection improvement project at Whittaker Rd and Merritt Road in Ypsilanti Township.
When: Wednesday, May 18 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Where: Charter Township of Ypsilanti
7200 S. Huron River Drive (just east of Huron River Dr/Whittaker Rd intersection)
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Special accommodations: Contact Katie Parrish at (734) 327-6646
Who:
Why: A single-lane roundabout will be built at Whittaker Road and Merritt Road to enhance safety along the Whittaker Road corridor. The size of the roundabout will be similar to what exists at Whittaker Road and Stony Creek Road (CVS/Aubree’s Pizzeria).
Contact: If you have any questions concerning this project, please contact Mark McCulloch at [email protected] or (734) 327-6679.
