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1. What are the benefits of a roundabout at this intersection?

The roundabout will provide safer access to Peavey Rd and the new Oak Ridge Commons site, where Costco will be. The roundabout will slow vehicle speeds and reduce the wait time for vehicles entering or exiting Highway 41. The roundabout will also allow for more free-flowing traffic on Highway 41.

2. Why install a roundabout instead of a traffic light?

A roundabout was chosen because they have fewer opportunities for crashes compared to intersections with traffic lights or stop signs. The shape of a roundabout eliminates high-speed, right-angle, and head-on crashes. It also allows for quicker reaction time because of the low traffic speed. 

3. Who made the decision to build a roundabout?

The Minnesota Department of Transportation and the city of Chaska were part of the planning of the Peavey Rd/Hwy 41 intersection approvements.

4. How will traffic flow through the area?

Motorists will use the new roundabout to access Peavey Road and the new Oak Ridge Commons site or to continue on Highway 41. Similar to the roundabout at Highway 41/Lyman Blvd north of the project area, motorists will enter the roundabout when there is a gap in traffic. All traffic goes through the roundabout in the same direction. 

The lanes are wide enough to accommodate buses, fire, and other large trucks. The apron in the center of the roundabout is there to help large vehicles move through the roundabout.

5. How will the roundabout handle extra traffic in the area?

Roundabouts typically create less delay than signalized and stop sign controlled intersections. The shortened wait time is most noticeable during non-peak traffic periods. 

A roundabout at this location is anticipated to adequately handle traffic coming to and through the area.

6. Will the roundabout be designed to handle a 4-lane expansion?

The Peavey Rd/Highway 41 roundabout was built to accommodate a potential future expansion to a 4-lane highway.