Local News

Towson Roundabout Gets Makeover

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) ― The heart of downtown Towson is receiving a makeover.

Often a target of criticism by drivers, Kai Jackson reports the Towson roundabout underwent construction to make it more driver friendly.

Honking is the most common sound in the Towson traffic circle.  The frustration is even worse when emergency vehicles come through.

"Nobody knows when to go, who to yield to. It's very confusing," said a driver.

"I call it the traffic circle of death because every time I run through it, someone almost gets in an accident," said another driver.

Now the State Highway Administration plans to modify the roundabout, but not too much because, despite the honking, it's actually a safety success.

"The three years before we put in this roundabout, there were seven fatalities. Since then, zero. You can't argue with that fact, plain and simple," said Dave Buck with the State Highway Administration.

The new changes are as follows: Alleghany Ave. coming into the circle will be reduced to one lane. York Road south of the circle will also be one lane because they're adding more street side parking. Coming out of the circle, Joppa Road will become one lane, but drivers will notice a lot of new lane markings.

"York Road will be more difficult to navigate through Towson. That is the intent quite honestly, slow people down, get them to use Charles, Dulaney Valley and the bypass as alternatives," said Buck.

The final goal is to make Towson safer and more pedestrian friendly.

Business owners hope the changes will improve foot traffic while keeping the area busy.

"Well, it is entertaining. My customers do enjoy watching the circle," said Kathy Farrell.

The State Highway Administration plans to review the changes in six months to see if they're working.

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