Our neighbors in Dayton share a stretch of highway that many of us in Yamhill County travel, whether we’re heading to the coast, running errands, or hauling goods to market. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is now looking at ways to make a key part of that route safer, and it wants to hear from the people who use it.
What’s being plannedSeveral intersections along OR 18 in Dayton have a long history of severe and fatal crashes. To help change that, ODOT is exploring potential solutions, including a roundabout at the OR 233/SE Lafayette Highway and OR 18 intersection.If built, the roundabout would replace the current stop-controlled intersection and change how SE Ash Road operates both north and south of OR 18.
Why a roundabout?According to the Federal Highway Administration, roundabouts are safer than traditional intersections. Locations with roundabouts can see a 90% reduction in fatalities, a 76% reduction in injuries, and a 35% reduction in all crashes. Because a roundabout naturally slows traffic moving through the intersection, crashes that do happen tend to be less severe.
Where the project standsThe project is in the design phase, which is expected to run from 2026 to 2029. Design is funded at about $5 million, but construction is not yet funded or scheduled. ODOT says it will have a better sense of construction costs and timing as the design work moves forward. When construction does happen, pedestrians, including those with disabilities, will have access through or around the work zone.
Take the survey by October 25ODOT is asking for input through a project survey open from October 1 to October 25. The survey asks about:
- The best way to share project information with you
- Whether you’re a farmer who lives or works near the project area
- How you use the intersections in the area
- How temporary road closures and detours could affect you during construction
- Your experiences in the area, and more
Stay in the loopYou can sign up for project updates from ODOT, or visit the project page for the latest details and a project area map.
Questions about the project can go to ODOT’s Public Information Officer, Mindy McCartt, at mindy.m.mccartt@odot.oregon.gov or 503-507-6045.
