San Rafael, CA – A roundabout intersection is about to be constructed on the Mill Valley-Sausalito multiuse pathway with the idea of minimizing conflicts and enhancing harmony between bikers and pedestrians.
Ernest Klock, a Principal Civil Engineer with the County of Marin’s Department of Public Works, explained the project’s basic components Tuesday before the Marin County Board of Supervisors. He said work would start October 13 and be finished by December.
The roundabout will be constructed near the east end of Sycamore Avenue as part of a larger maintenance project for the pathway. The County and the City of Mill Valley worked with project stakeholders to identify a solution to improve connectivity and minimize user conflicts at this high-use intersection near Bayfront Park and the Mill Valley School District headquarters. A roundabout was deemed the best option.
“The idea is to cause people to pause and slow down as they navigate the intersection,” Klock told the Supervisors. “The roundabout is expected to reduce speed, which will go a long way to increase safety and calm some nerves.”
Although some recent user conflicts on the pathway have resulted in injuries, prompting public calls for a solution, the roundabout project has been in the works since March 2013. “This is very timely in the light of recent accidents that have taken place on the pathway,” said District 3 Supervisor Kate Sears, who represents the Mill Valley area where the roundabout will be installed.
Other amenities planned are new landscaping, a small plaza, a bike map kiosk, a drinking fountain, a garbage receptacle and signage.
The pathway will remain open during construction. Signs will be posted in the area before work begins.
The project was awarded to Ghilotti Construction Company on September 8 for $367,797. It is funded using County National Model Program funds and Parks and Open Space Measure A funds.