Sparta-Commerce Roundabout to Open First Week of October
The roundabout is part of a $3.1 million dollar project to improve traffic flow at the intersection. In addition, a 10-foot hike and bike trial will be added on the south side of Sparta and right-turn lanes added at Loop 121 and Sparta for motorists traveling north on the Loop or east and west on Sparta.
While research shows that roundabouts are safer and more efficient than intersections, it is a new road feature in Belton. Please be mindful of others who may be using a roundabout for the first time and drive with caution. Roundabouts are traffic calming features, and cars should follow traffic signs and slow down upon approach.
Some helpful tips for using the roundabout:
• Upon approach check for pedestrians in crosswalk.
• Look to left to determine if a car is in the roundabout.
o If roundabout is clear, continue on.
o If entering the roundabout is unsafe because another vehicle is in it, yield, then enter when safe.• Cars in the roundabout have the right of way, so continue on until the exit is reached.
• It’s as simple as that.
Construction will continue on Sparta after the roundabout opens, but the rest of the project will be done under traffic. The entire project is expected to be completed by December.