February 2, 2022 3:40 a.m.

Douglas County Commissioners along with staff from the Public Works Department, have announced the completion of a major upgrade to the intersection of North Old Pacific Highway with Chadwick Road and Loop Road in Tri City, just outside of Myrtle Creek.

A release said construction began in October and was completed at the end of the year. The primary goal of the project was to increase pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle safety, while not impeding through-traffic in the area.

 

Public Works Director Scott Adams said, “The Commissioners stepped up to initiate this project in response to concerns regarding student safety expressed by residents of the Tri-City community”. Adams said the work delivered a major upgrade to the existing sidewalk that students use everyday to get to South Umpqua High School. Adams said, “These improvements will have a measurable impact for both the school and the outlying communities”.

The release said enhancements to the Tri-City intersection included: upgraded traffic lights, streamlined road signs to improve visibility, new sidewalks with ADA accessible ramps, and the installation of a pedestrian activated crossing device, also known as a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon.

The total cost of the project was just over $166,000. It was paid for through County Public Works funds.

Before and after pictures of the intersection are posted with this story at www.541radio.com.