Construction on a new roundabout at the intersection of U.S. 6 and Wye Road in Bishop is set to begin Monday, October 26. This significant infrastructure project aims to enhance safety at a crucial connector point between U.S. 6 and U.S. 395, an intersection that currently experiences an accident rate higher than the state average for similar facilities. Traffic will be managed with one-way control throughout the tentatively scheduled two-week construction period, with completion expected by Monday, November 9.
The U.S. 6 Temporary Roundabout Project will involve restriping the roadway and installing a single-lane Vortex modular delineator system. This initiative marks a notable development for regional transportation, as it will be the first roundabout installed on a state highway in Mono, Inyo, and eastern Kern counties. The introduction of this traffic feature is intended to bring a significant change to how traffic flows through this busy intersection.
The primary function of a roundabout is to decrease traffic speeds and reduce the number of potential points of conflict for both drivers and pedestrians. The existing intersection currently presents 32 points of conflict for vehicles and 24 for pedestrians. With the installation of the roundabout, these figures are projected to drop dramatically, with only 8 points of conflict for both vehicles and pedestrians. This traffic-calming design has demonstrated a strong track record in enhancing road safety. Studies indicate that roundabouts can reduce all accidents by 35 percent, injury accidents by 76 percent, and fatality accidents by a substantial 90 percent.
During the construction period, crews will perform necessary striping and electrical work. The initial work schedule is set for Monday through Wednesday during the day, specifically from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Following this, crews will primarily shift to overnight work, though intermittent daytime work may occur as needed. Drivers traveling through the area should be prepared for one-way traffic control, which will be managed by a flagger, and may experience delays of up to five minutes. There is also a possibility of weekend work. When crews are not actively working on the site, Wye Road and U.S. 6 will temporarily function as a four-way intersection controlled by a stop sign.
Travelers are urged to exercise caution and attentiveness when approaching the construction zone. Drivers are asked to be mindful of workers on the highway, reduce their speed within the cone zone, and, whenever possible, move over to provide additional clearance. Work schedules are subject to modification due to various factors, including traffic incidents, prevailing weather conditions, the availability of equipment or materials, or other construction-related issues. For individuals with sensory disabilities who require information in alternative formats, such as Braille or large print, or those needing information in a language other than English, Angela Bates can be contacted for assistance.
