Date:  Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Contact: Moe Davari, WSDOT Project Engineer, 509.222.2402 (Richland)
Tom Lenberg, WSDOT Maintenance Superintendent, 509.577.1933 (Pasco)
Mike Westbay, WSDOT Communications, 509.728.4712 (Yakima)

WSDOT installs new pavement markings and signs on SR 240 roundabout in Richland

Oversize loads are prohibited. Drivers should plan for delays and consider alternate routes.

PASCO – If weather allows, on Wednesday and Thursday, November 12 and 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., WSDOT maintenance crews will restrict traffic to one lane in the SR 240 Richland Wye roundabout while new pavement markers (stripes and directional arrows) are painted on the lanes at the approaches and inside the roundabout. The road needs to be dry to apply the stripes. If the road is not dry on these days, we will reschedule the work. The remainder of the new signs showing, “YIELD TO CARS IN BOTH LANES OF ROUNDABOUT,” will also be installed.

“The new stripes and signs should help drivers see more clearly how to navigate safely through the two-lane roundabout,” said Moe Davari, WSDOT Project Engineer. Here are the keys to driving safely in a two-lane roundabout:

• Observe pavement markings and signs.
• Get in the correct lane early.
• Yield to all traffic already in the roundabout, even if you're only entering the right lane (outside lane) of the roundabout.
• Never pass or change lanes in the roundabout.
• When exiting from the inside lane, check the lane next to you and your blind spot to make sure the outside lane is clear.
• Use your turn signal to let other drivers know that you are exiting.

For more information on roundabouts visit: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Safety/roundabouts/

Visit our Web site for the complete construction update report: www.wsdot.wa.gov/Regions/SouthCentral/Construction/

Drivers can now get current traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
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