Florence roundabout project expected to improve traffic flow

The Arizona Department of Transportation is working with the Maricopa Association of Governments and the town of Florence to construct dual roundabouts in Florence that will improve safety and the flow of traffic at the junction of state routes 287 and 79B.

The $6.5 million dual-roundabout project will ultimately connect four roadways that now converge in an unusual configuration of angles and turn lanes, according to a press release from the Arizona Department of Transportation.

In what is now the northwest section of the existing intersection, a dual-lane roundabout will allow traffic to flow between SR 287, Main Street and a short roadway that leads to the second roundabout.

To the southeast, a single-lane roundabout will allow traffic from the larger roundabout to flow into SR 79B and Florence Heights Drive.

“The dual roundabouts are designed to simplify the options for drivers navigating between the various roadways while reducing delays at the existing traffic signals. The roundabouts also promote safety by slowing traffic as motorists transition from one roadway to another,” the release stated.

The project includes new lighting, multi-use pathways, curb and gutter, medians with decorative paving, drainage and a town entry monument. Sections of Main Street and Florence Heights Drive will be reconstructed to align with the new roundabouts.

The west end of Florence Heights Drive will close for approximately 10 weeks. Businesses and residences will remain accessible from SR 79, Elizabeth and Orlando streets.

Motorists can expect work to occur from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. weekdays. Closures, if needed, will occur overnight and end by 5 a.m. Local detours are expected to be in place into March, with signs directing traffic through the area. The project is expected to be completed in late summer.

For more information, visit azdot.gov/FlorenceRoundabouts .