Update on the Proposed Roundabout at Mirabel/116, March 2009

Roundabout At Mirabel/116?
A meeting was called on 2/26 at the Forestville Elementary School by the County Transportation Department to review the idea and design of the roundabout proposed for the intersection of Mirabel and 116.

Information from the meeting:

• Funding seems to be in place for the project. The County (with local urging) prefers a roundabout over a four-way light at this point — and is eager for public input and confirmation. However, because 116 is a State Highway, CalTrans has the final say.
• While in the process of finalizing an environmental report, the County is eager to finish the plan for the junction so other projects can move ahead. Improving this intersection is the first phase of the larger Bypass project.
• A roundabout would reduce the speed of traffic through it to 15-25 mph. The footprint of a 4-way signal (with left turn lanes) is greater than a roundabout’s footprint but more spread out.
• Many questions were brought up. Our Fire Chief, Dan Northern, questioned how fire trucks might navigate the roundabout.
• Ramona Crinella objected to the latest design, which veers off of the current roadbed and would encroach on her vineyard.
• Others questioned the inadequate site-line from Hidden Valley Road, safety for bicyclists, and the how the Radota Trail would thread through the intersection.
• Several people requested that the County give more notice of meetings like this so they can be better publicized and therefore better attended.

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