Molalla Roundabout: It's an (award) winner!

Molalla’s new roundabout has improved both safety and the traffic flow along Highway 213. In the process, the project has won a prestigious safety award from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

The regional award in the small, safety category makes the project eligible for one of 12 projects that will be honored nationally this fall by the association, which is known as AASHTO.

In a letter to ODOT Director Kris Strickler, AASHTO Executive Director Jim Tymon said 39 state departments of transportation took part in this year's competition.

“The projects nominated in this competition are making people safer, our communities stronger, our economy more efficient, and our quality of life better, all while utilizing the most innovative technology to get these projects done better and faster,” Tymon said.

Before the new roundabout, the intersection of Highway 213 and Toliver Road was controlled by stop signs and had a high crash rate. A 2018 road safety audit studied the safety concerns and travel patterns through the intersection and identified potential solutions.

Through this audit and through work with local agencies and engineers, ODOT determined that a roundabout would bring the greatest safety benefits.

The roundabout improved safety by reducing sharp turns while also accommodating the type of traffic that uses it, including large vehicles like trucks, buses and agricultural equipment. New lighting was also installed.

“The roundabout has improved safe circulation of vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists through the intersection," said Dan Huff, Molalla city manager and project partner, in a letter of support. "The project is a success on many fronts and our community is enjoying the benefits.”

The roundabout opened in August 2023 with a total cost of $9.6 million, including some funding from the City of Molalla.