Roundabout ahead: Traffic changes coming to Henderson, Kentucky

Although construction isn't fully finished, two roundabouts will open in Henderson, Kentucky, this weekend to allow drivers to acclimate to major shifts in traffic patterns along one of the city's main arteries.

According to a news release from Ohio River Crossing, the roundabouts likely will open Saturday. Both are on Second Street near North Middle School.

The first sits at the interchange with Second Street and Kentucky 2084, while the other waits just up the road at Second and U.S. 41 South. The outside lanes of each will open to drivers, while the interior lanes will remain closed while construction continues.

Workers will also remove temporary traffic signals in the area, and reopen the ramps to and from U.S. 41.

"The single-lane configuration will offer motorists an opportunity to adjust to driving the new roundabouts," the release states. "Even in a temporary configuration, opening the roundabouts is expected to improve traffic flow along (Second) Street."

The Kentucky Department of Transportation has been trying to prepare drivers for the shift. On July 15, officials held a meeting at Henderson High School complete with a "virtual reality station" where residents could simulate navigating a roundabout. KDOT also offers a "roundabout ready" page on the Ohio River Crossing website.

The roundabouts are a small part of the Ohio River Crossing project, which eventually will bring a new bridge over the Ohio River between Indiana and Kentucky.

A third roundabout, near Henderson High School and U.S. 41 North, will remain closed. Officials expect it to open sometime later this year.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Roundabout ahead: Traffic changes coming to Henderson, Kentucky