WAPPINGER – Major construction has been completed on a $5.8 million project that modernized the intersection of State Route 376 with New Hackensack Road and All Angels Hill Road in the Town of Wappinger.
The project, which was completed on-budget and six months ahead of schedule, created a one-lane roundabout that eased traffic flow and enhanced safety at a busy intersection.
The project, which broke ground in December 2021, also created a new pocket park adjacent to the sidewalk on the north side of the roundabout that features benches and perennial landscaping. Approximately one acre of asphalt was removed and reclaimed with compost and topsoil to foster increased vegetation and help prevent stormwater runoff and flooding. The center of the roundabout and other parts of the project area were re-landscaped with 52 native tree plantings, 112 shrubs, and 112 plants.
New pedestrian crosswalks were added to enhance safety and colored and imprinted concrete was used in the sidewalk buffer strips and roundabout truck apron to increase visibility and driver awareness. Rubble stone masonry was used in the retaining walls to contribute to the aesthetic vision of a town gateway.
Roundabouts are engineered to maximize safety and minimize congestion. Compared to traditional intersections, traffic flows more freely through roundabouts, cutting congestion and commute times. Reduced vehicle idling time means fewer fuel emissions and improved air quality.
Crashes at roundabouts tend to be less severe because they typically occur at slower speeds. Roundabouts eliminate the need for electric-powered traffic signals. They also contribute to aesthetically pleasing landscapes.
“There have been immense traffic improvements at the intersection of Route 376, New Hackensack Road, and All Angel Hill Road as a result of the new roundabout,” said Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro. “Drivers can now get through the previously crowded intersection with ease.”
NYSDOT provides additional information online regarding roundabouts, as well as downloadable brochures, at https://www.dot.ny.gov/main/roundabouts.
