Roundabout at Clearwater Junction won't become a reality for at least four years

"The design process for the Clearwater Roundabout is ongoing, said Kristine Fife, of Big Sky Public Relations. "Don't expect construction for at least four to five years."

Although public opinion from an informal social media survey is high against roundabouts, roundabouts successfully reduce traffic accidents and fatalities in their locations. Roundabouts keep traffic moving during off-peak times, rather than having a lone car sitting at a red light.

"Speed limits don't get very good compliance," said Bob Vosen, Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) District Supervisor. "It's easy to run a stop sign or stop light, it's really hard to run a roundabout."

A recent roundabout in Helena at Canyon Ferry Road and Lake Helena Drive was constructed more than a decade ago.

"In the ten years before, it(Canyon ferry Rd/Lake Helena Drive) had two fatal crashes, 15 injury crashes and a host of other crashes," said Gabe Priebe, Montana Traffic and Safety Engineer. "In the ten years after installation of the roundabout, there are no fatal crashes, only two injury accidents and an overall reduction on the number of crashes."

According to MDT.com, roundabouts eliminate the deadliest T-bone style crashes through their circular shape and one directional traffic flow, make things easier on drivers by removing the most problematic cross-traffic and left-hand turning maneuvers, allow drivers to simply slow down, look to their left, and gently merge into the roundabout before traveling around the circle to their destination.

Roundabouts constructed at intersections along high-speed, two-lane rural highways reduce crashes by 68% and reduce serious injury crashes by up to 88%, said MDT.

Clearwater Junction is home to one of the most frequently visited boat check stations in the state, as well as a busy weigh station and rest area, contributing significantly to traffic issues. During summer months and holiday weekends, long lines of cars develop on MT 83, causing traffic delays. A 2021 traffic report showed 850 heavy and commercial vehicles per day contribute to traffic during the busy season.

"This is a complicated intersection with several considerations," said Kristine Fife, Communications Manager. "The design team is considering the space available and the needs of travelers, trucks, campers, locals and adjacent facilities when developing a design. The weigh station will continue in its present location." 

As the design process progresses there will be updates made available locally.

For more information visit the project website, https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/clearwater/default.shtml, email Communications Manager Kristine Fife at kristine@bigskypublicrelations.com or call the project hotline, 406-207-4484.