DeKALB – A new single-lane roundabout on Lucinda Avenue and Normal Road opened on Wednesday.
The intersection of Lucinda Avenue and Normal Road was reconfigured from a four-way stoplight to roundabout. Construction on the roundabout began May 12 and continued over the summer for three months.
Both NIU and the City of DeKalb Public Works Department stated work on the roundabout would come to an end at the end of August, before the start of classes.
The roundabout is open, but there is still minor site work and landscaping that are set to be finished by September.
The Illinois Department of Transportation defines roundabouts as circular intersections that move traffic counterclockwise around a center island. They are designed to lower vehicle speeds but have a continuous movement of traffic.
Roundabouts eliminate left turns across traffic and create fewer stress points that can cause traffic. Compared to a four way intersection, roundabouts reduce possible conflict points from 32 to eight, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation.
As stated by the university on the construction and project updates page, the roundabout was constructed in order to improve pedestrian safety on campus as well as to improve walkability. The roundabout has removed traffic lights and relocated pedestrian crossings. Flashing and audible signals have been installed on pedestrian crossings.
Tips on how to safely use the roundabout were sent out to all NIU students via email. The yield signs on every roundabout entrance advise students to always slow their vehicles before entering the roundabout.
Drivers are required to give pedestrians, bicycles and anyone on the crosswalks the right of way, to avoid stopping once inside the roundabout, and to never try to pass other vehicles. For more information, the Illinois Department of Transportation provides a step-by-step guide on how to drive a roundabout.
