Project Location

The intersection of State Route 61 (SR 61) and State Route 521 (SR 521) is a rural, 4-leg intersection in northeastern Delaware County, Ohio, near the dividing line between Kingston and Porter Townships. The intersection is approximately four miles south of the I-71 and SR 61 interchange and approximately five miles north of the city of Sunbury. The unincorporated community of Olive Green lies approximately half a mile to the east at the SR 521 and SR 656 intersection.

Project History

The intersection has experienced a high number of injury crashes. An analysis of crash data from 2017 to 2022 revealed a total of 21 reported crashes at the SR 61 and SR 521 intersection, with 15 (71.4%) resulting in injuries. Of these crashes, 15 were angle crashes, with ten specifically involving conflicts between SR 61 southbound and SR 521 westbound traffic. As a result of the consistent safety issues, the intersection was ranked #65 on ODOT's 2021 Highway Safety Improvement Plan (HSIP) Rural Intersection Priority list.

In 2023, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) completed a Safety Study for this intersection. This study evaluated a traffic signal, placement of additional signs, and a roundabout to replace the current intersection.

• Traffic signal: Installation of a traffic signal requires careful analysis of traffic volumes, delay times, and other factors. A signal warrant analysis (i.e., a study to determine if a signal should be installed at a particular location) was performed for the intersection as part of the 2023 Safety Study. The study determined that a traffic signal is not warranted at this location.
• Additional signage: Due to the consistent pattern of angle crashes at the intersection, installing additional signage will not improve safety at this location. A four-way stop would result in additional delay at the intersection.
• Roundabout: The 2023 Safety Study determined that construction of a single-lane roundabout is the best alternative to improve safety at this intersection. Converting the intersection to a roundabout will address the existing safety issues by reducing the potential for angle crashes and resolving the intersection alignment.

Improvement Alternatives

A Feasibility Study is being prepared comparing three alternatives for the SR-61 and SR-521 intersection to meet the project’s purpose and need. A preferred roundabout layout has not been selected. We are seeking public feedback on the three roundabout layouts prior to advancing a layout into detailed design. Concepts under consideration include:

• Alternative 1: Traditional single-lane roundabout centered around the existing intersection location.
• Alternative 2: Traditional single-lane roundabout shifted west of the center of the existing intersection.
• Alternative 3: Elliptical single-lane roundabout shifted east of the center of the existing intersection.

For visual reference, please navigate to the "Alternatives" section. Alternative Exhibits are also available to view and download in the sidebar of this webpage under "documents."