Going to the Washington County Fair? New roundabout in Richmond will affect traffic flow

RICHMOND — The Washington County Fair is coming to Rhode Island for its 58th year. Attendees can expect fun rides, more than 30 food booths, magic performances and livestock shows, to name a few of the attractions.

The annual event is a popular summer tradition for Rhode Islanders: According to the fair’s website , the average attendance is about 130,000 people. Last year, the fair even reached full capacity on its fourth day, with the Richmond fire marshal having to turn people away, though fair organizers have a plan to handle parking capacity this year.

New roundabout at intersection of Routes 138 and 112

Large crowds mean long lines of traffic. If you are planning to go to the fair, be aware of new traffic patterns.

Richmond is in the process of constructing a roundabout at the intersection of Routes 138 and 112, known as Kingstown Road and Carolina Nooseneck Road-Richmond Townhouse Road, respectively. The construction will likely affect traffic patterns for people heading to the Washington County Fair at nearby 78 Richmond Townhouse Road.

The intersection was a hot spot for car accidents, leading Richmond to start considering a roundabout since 2015.

“The roundabout was proposed after an inordinate number of crashes in that section of roadway. Roundabouts are designed to slow traffic without placing traffic signals that aren't in keeping with rural roadways,” the town explained in a Facebook post in 2022.

Since then, the town has been providing regular updates on the construction process on its Facebook page , including a rendering of what the finished roundabout will look like.

Richmond Police Lt. John Arnold said drivers – especially people from out of town unfamiliar with the area – should be cautious when approaching the roundabout, as there will be workers, cones, temporary signs and construction material.

“Drivers should remember that existing traffic has the right of way, and that using a turn signal prior to exiting lets other drivers know your intentions within the roundabout,” Arnold said.

Before you go: What's happening at the Washington County Fair this year? Your guide to the fair

Heavy traffic is expected in the area, as well as delays, particularly during fair days.

“The fair is meant to be an educational, fun, and happy experience. A bit of patience, and courtesy on our roadways leading into and out of the fair will go a long way in ensuring a safe and positive experience for everyone,” Arnold said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Going to the Washington County Fair? New roundabout in Richmond will affect traffic flow