Murphy – At the risk of jinxing things, the new traffic circle downtown has so far avoided the calamity naysayers predicted.
The N.C. Department of Transportation started work on downtown streets on the afternoon of Feb. 24, and by Friday had the basic structure for downtown traffic sketched out using paint and traffic cones.
Crosswalks at the intersection of Valley River Avenue and Peachtree, Tennessee and Hiwassee streets were closed. The four-lane configuration was reduced to two lanes in each direction, with a center turn lane and well-marked parking spaces. A former through-lane on Hiwassee Street was converted to a dedicated turn lane for Sycamore Street (where Main Street USA Diner is located, leading to the Cherokee Scout office).
The traffic circle aside, downtown reconfigurations result in wider but fewer lanes, more secure parking spaces and fix problems that have confused or vexed motorists over the years. Street planners said there may be a few more parking spaces added to downtown once work is done, and the streets are also going to get new pavement.
As for the traffic circle, Murphy Police Chief Tim Lominac put it this way Monday: “Knock on wood … we have had no incidents.”
Just to be sure, the Scout sought 911 records for the traffic circle since Feb. 24.
“There have been no reports of accidents or any issues regarding the roundabout since it’s been open,” e-911 Director Theresa Creasman responded.
Town council member Barry McClure posted this on his Facebook wall on Saturday: “Marked Safe from Roundabouts Today.”
An organization called Merit & Measure LLC is selling T-shirts with a “I survived the roundabout #Murphy 2025” logo for $20, with proceeds donated to the Valley River Humane Society. Nine had been sold as of Monday, with a goal of 150.
The Scout asked its Facebook followers to share their thoughts on the traffic circle. As of Monday afternoon, more than 100 people had left comments. While many were positive, several wondered about large trucks negotiating the relatively small traffic circle.
Said Davis Roberts: “Fine for a small car, tight for an SUV or dually truck. Impassable for any semi, which is bad cause they come through there often. Near impassable for any pickup with a trailer. Not enough room to make an effective round about. Waste of time, space, money and energy.”
Said Sarah Coffey: “I don’t think it’s absolutely terrible. However, being someone who recently was DoorDashing and listening to directions and almost dying, it needs to be changed in maps from a light intersection. I was confused the first time I drove there.
“Also wasn’t there a traffic circle there years ago and they decided to put in a light? Idk, seems like this has already been done before and that it didn’t work the first time with the even lower traffic then.”
From the mayor
Murphy Mayor Tim Radford said he understands there have been mixed reactions – some positive, some not.
“Change can be challenging, and it’s natural for there to be a period of adjustment,” he said.
The idea for the roundabout was proposed in 2018, and it has been in the planning stages for over seven years, Radford said.
“I understand and appreciate the concerns that have been voiced by our residents, as I asked those exact same questions when I first laid eyes on the project,” he said. “It’s essential to acknowledge these concerns and address them thoughtfully.”
One of the main issues has been unfamiliarity with navigating roundabouts, especially since many people in this community are not accustomed to them, Radford said.
“It’s important to remember that vehicles inside the circle have the right of way. Approaching vehicles should reduce speed and only enter the roundabout when it is safe to do so,” he said.
“The design of the roundabout also includes measures to calm traffic speeds, enhancing safety for downtown. Folks will also save some money on gas by not having to idle waiting on a light to turn green.”
Nothing in the middle
Regarding the concerns about large trucks navigating the roundabout, the construction includes temporary flexible bollards that are designed to be run over by larger vehicles without causing damage. These bollards fold down and pop back up as needed, according to the DOT.
Once the roundabout is complete, a truck apron will be incorporated to allow tractor-trailers, fire trucks and other larger vehicles to safely mount the curb and navigate the circle. The design will be raised concrete.
There will not be an object in the center of the roundabout.
“Many residents have expressed their appreciation for the new traffic layout downtown, which includes one lane in each direction and a center turning lane,” Radford said. “This arrangement has alleviated the cramped feeling of driving through downtown and improved parking by allowing for longer spaces that accommodate larger vehicles more effectively.
“Looking ahead, once the N.C. Department of Transportation completes the roundabout construction – projected for completion by April of this year – we will begin the beautification of the four pocket parks at town square. I believe the community will be very pleased with the outcome. Following this, the NCDOT will undertake final touches, including repaving the streets and applying permanent paint.
“While there will be some loss of parking spaces near the roundabout, the overall plan will result in a net gain of parking spaces throughout downtown, which should benefit everyone.
“I’m confident that as we move forward, the enhancements to our downtown will be appreciated by all who live in, work in, and visit Murphy,” he added.
Tips to survive traffic circle
Lominac shared some tips for negotiating the new roundabout.
“Be mindful of downtown traffic construction, use the designated cross walks, and make sure to yield to those who have the right a way. The vehicle(s) in the roundabout always has the right a way over the vehicle(s) entering,” he said.
One further note: If you have the right of way, don’t assume the other driver knows it; drive defensively. If you’re a pedestrian, make sure you have eye contact with the approaching driver before stepping in front of a vehicle, even if you are in a crosswalk.
One video shared on social media shows a driver turning left as they enter the roundabout, even using their turn signal. However, all vehicles move right when entering a traffic circle, then will take another right turn when leaving it.