Indiana to Replace Dangerous Intersection With Roundabout in $2.7 Million Safety Project

New Intersection Design to Improve Safety and Efficiency

EVANSVILLE — A major transformation is on the horizon for a well-known intersection in Vanderburgh County. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has announced plans to replace the current setup at the intersection of Indiana 57 and Green River Road with a roundabout. This change is expected to bring significant improvements in safety, efficiency, and long-term cost savings.

According to Vanderburgh County officials, the project will be open for bids in 2027, with construction set to begin in the summer of 2028. An updated INDOT letting report indicates that the project will be ready for contracts by June 23, 2027, and bids will be accepted until September 15, 2027. The estimated cost of the project is $2.7 million.

Why a Roundabout?

An engineering assessment completed in 2022 identified a roundabout as the preferred solution for this intersection. The report highlighted several key benefits, including enhanced safety, reduced long-term costs, and improved aesthetics.

One of the main reasons for choosing a roundabout is its ability to reduce “conflict points” where vehicles can cross paths. According to the report, a roundabout eliminates the potential for right-angle and head-on crashes. Most crashes in such intersections are typically rear-end or sideswipe in nature. Left-hand, right-angle (T-bone), and head-on crashes are practically eliminated.

Current Intersection Challenges

The current intersection of Indiana 57 and N. Green River Road is shaped like a skewed “X,” which differs from the traditional “cross” shape found in most four-way intersections. This design can contribute to confusion among drivers and increase the risk of accidents.

Indiana 57 currently has a flashing-yellow traffic light, giving motorists traveling on this road the right of way. Meanwhile, the light on North Green River Road flashes red, which can lead to inconsistent driving behavior.

A 2022 report from the Courier & Press revealed that the Green River Road intersection accounted for nearly 20 percent of all crashes on Indiana 57 over the past five years. This data underscores the need for a more efficient and safer design.

Benefits of the Roundabout

Implementing a roundabout at this location is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and reduce the number of accidents. By eliminating high-risk collision types, the roundabout will make the intersection safer for all road users.

Additionally, roundabouts have been shown to reduce maintenance costs over time. Unlike traditional intersections with traffic signals, roundabouts do not require frequent repairs or replacements of traffic lights, which can save money in the long run.

Project Timeline

With the project now moving forward, the next steps include preparing the necessary documentation, opening the bidding process, and selecting a contractor. Once construction begins in 2028, the community can expect to see a modernized intersection that prioritizes safety and efficiency.