New roundabouts: So far, so good

YAKIMA -- Almost two months have passed since the Department of Transportation opened the region's first set of two-lane roundabouts in Union Gap.

Since then, some drivers have entered the circles from the wrong direction. Others were shunted to exits they didn't plan to take, and according to transportation officials, there are drivers who stop in the traffic circles themselves.

But despite the initial confusion, Don Whitehouse, regional administrator for the transportation department, counts the project a success. Not only are driving times reduced, there have been no accidents, he said.

"It takes less time to get to work every morning or get through the intersection at night," he said. "We're very happy with the way they are functioning."

The two roundabouts at the intersection of Valley Mall Boulevard and Interstate 82 are a part of a $34.3 million project that will include a third roundabout by next fall. The project was funded through the federal government, the state and federal gas tax and local funds.

Across the state, 23 other corridors have two or more consecutive sets of roundabouts -- found in such places as Bellingham, Tumwater, Moses Lake and Cle Elum.

State transportation officials say the traffic circles provide better and more direct access to and from Interstate 82 and North Rudkin Road -- in addition to improving area connections to the interstate for retail and commercial development.

Union Gap Mayor Jim Lemon said he had some initial concerns about the roundabouts but has since come to value them. Some drivers need to learn how to drive through them, he said, but he's confident they'll grow accustomed to the traffic circles in time.

"I think the roundabouts on Valley Mall Boulevard seem very functional," he said. "I think the DOT did a good job and put a lot of thought into it. It's a nice, new attraction to our town."

Before the project began, 22,000 drivers used the I-82 Valley Mall Boulevard interchange every day, according to state data. That number is expected to increase to 31,000 in 10 years and 36,000 in 20 years.

* Erin Snelgrove can be reached at 509-577-7684 or esnelgrove@yakimaherald.com.