Haywood County -- July 8, 2026: Drivers in Haywood County are now experiencing a first for western North Carolina as the region's first completed multi-lane roundabout has officially opened at the intersection of U.S. 19 and U.S. 276.
The new roundabout marks a major milestone in the North Carolina Department of Transportation's $38.5 million intersection improvement project, which is designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and increase safety at one of Haywood County's busiest intersections. Thousands of motorists travel through this corridor each day, making it an important gateway for both residents and visitors.
Unlike traditional intersections controlled by traffic signals, roundabouts are designed to keep vehicles moving at slower, more consistent speeds. Transportation experts say modern roundabouts help reduce the likelihood of serious crashes by eliminating high-speed, right-angle collisions while also minimizing stop-and-go traffic that often leads to backups and delays.
For many western North Carolina drivers, this will be their first experience navigating a multi-lane roundabout. Motorists are encouraged to slow down as they approach, pay close attention to posted lane-use signs, select the correct lane before entering, and yield to traffic already circulating inside the roundabout. Once inside, drivers should continue moving with the flow of traffic, avoid changing lanes, and use their turn signal when exiting.
The roundabout is just one component of the larger transportation improvement project. The overall investment also includes roadway upgrades, new bridges over the Pigeon River, improved intersections, and other infrastructure enhancements designed to increase mobility and accommodate future growth throughout the area.
Although construction on other portions of the project will continue, the opening of the multi-lane roundabout represents one of the most significant milestones completed so far. Officials believe the improvements will provide long-term benefits by creating a safer, more efficient transportation corridor for the community.
While there may be an adjustment period as drivers become familiar with the new traffic pattern, transportation engineers say roundabouts have consistently demonstrated safety benefits across the country. By reducing vehicle speeds and decreasing the number of conflict points where crashes can occur, modern roundabouts have been shown to lower both the frequency and severity of collisions.
Drivers traveling through the intersection are encouraged to remain alert, follow all posted signs and pavement markings, and exercise patience as everyone becomes accustomed to western North Carolina's first multi-lane roundabout. As traffic patterns normalize, officials expect the intersection to improve safety, reduce delays, and provide a smoother driving experience for years to come.