The Foley City Council has approved a plan to replace stop signs with traffic circles at two intersections on Michigan Avenue. This decision was made on Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, following a proposal from Thompson Engineering. The firm will design traffic circles at East Michigan Avenue and Juniper Street, and West Michigan Avenue and Cedar Street. Thompson Engineering’s study suggests that traffic circles are the best solution to reduce congestion at these intersections.
Mayor Ralph Hellmich supported the decision, stating that roundabouts are more cost-effective than traffic lights. He pointed out that installing a traffic signal at Cedar Street would cost around $4 million. He also mentioned that the Cedar Street site would need to accommodate existing utility lines.
The mayor also believes that the construction of traffic circles will improve the sidewalks surrounding the intersections. He anticipates an upgrade of the sidewalks in all four directions, which he thinks will ease traffic flow.