The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has opened the new roundabout at OR 99W and Clow Corner Road to traffic. Both directions of Clow Corner Road are accessible, and the intersection with Riddell Road has returned to a two-way stop.
Crews continue daytime work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., installing signs, landscaping, and paving portions of OR 99W. Nighttime lane closures may occur as needed, and drivers should expect a reduced speed limit of 45 mph in the work zone, along with construction noise and possible delays. The multiuse path in the area remains open.
“Thank you for your patience as we finish this project and improve safety in the area,” ODOT stated.
Most ODOT projects will continue despite ongoing funding challenges because they are financed through separate programs that use state or federal funds restricted by law for project development purposes. These funds cannot be used for maintenance or daily operations. More information about ODOT’s funding situation can be found on their website: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/pages/index.aspx
In response to community questions about using the new roundabout, ODOT clarified several points:
No regular vehicles are allowed to drive through the center of the roundabout; that lane is reserved exclusively for oversized semi trucks that have obtained special permits from ODOT.
“It’s been a while since most of us have read the Oregon Driver Manual. Here’s a quick refresher on how you drive through a roundabout:
Approach: Slow down as you approach the roundabout. Look for signs to determine where your exit is located.
Watch for people riding bicycles; they will either merge into traffic or use the sidewalk. When approaching the crosswalk, stop for pedestrians using the crosswalk in your lane.
Enter: Before you enter the roundabout, you must yield to traffic inside as well as exiting the roundabout. Wait for a gap and merge into traffic. Be prepared to stop if necessary.
Proceed: Once inside the roundabout, move around the circle until you reach your exit.
Allow people riding bicycles that have merged into traffic the full travel lane. Do not pass a person riding a bicycle within the roundabout.
Exit: Indicate your plan to exit using your right turn signal. Watch for pedestrians in the crosswalk and be prepared to stop.”
ODOT also noted that local farm equipment can use this roundabout design without issue.
Regarding emergency vehicles, ODOT advised: “Do not enter a roundabout when emergency vehicles are approaching. Pull over to the right. Allow other vehicles to clear the intersection so the emergency vehicles can move through the roundabout.”
“Never stop while inside the roundabout,” they added. Instead, drivers should exit before pulling over for emergency responders.
The new infrastructure includes pedestrian areas and crossings at all corners of this intersection and connects with an existing multiuse path on its west side; bicyclists may ride through or use these pedestrian crossings.
Pedestrian access—including accommodations for those with disabilities—will remain available throughout ongoing work zones.
Drivers are reminded that fines double in all Oregon work zones regardless of whether workers or signs are present.
For further information about road conditions or construction updates statewide, travelers can visit TripCheck.com (https://tripcheck.com/) or call 5-1-1.
