At the August 7 public meeting, Oakwood City Council will consider a resolution to authorize and direct the city manager to submit a grant application to the Ohio Department of Transportation for construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Far Hills Avenue (SR 48), Oakwood Avenue and Thruston Boulevard often referred to as Five Points.
There are many considerations on whether to build the roundabout, with the highest priority being the impact on public safety. Research has consistently documented the safety benefits of roundabouts for all users, including vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists. Another factor is the project cost. Submitting a grant application for state and federal funding assistance will answer the question of how a roundabout project would impact the city budget, if pursued.
Over the past several months, the city has received input from the Oakwood community and the general public on possibly converting Five Points from a traditional signalized intersection to a roundabout. Some of the input supports the roundabout alternative, and some opposes it. Through the input process, many questions have been asked. The city has compiled the questions into a white paper and prepared a response to each. The white paper is still in draft form but will be posted to the city website at www.oakwoodohio.gov on Friday, August 4. It will be updated as needed over the next two months.
The city previously announced that public comments would be received through August 11. Given the size and potential impact of this project, the city is extending the public comment period through September 30. City leaders welcome and appreciate all public input.