A new roundabout intended to improve safety and traffic flow at a busy southwest London intersection has finally opened.
Traffic began moving through one lane of the roundabout at Colonel Talbot Road and Southdale Road West on Thursday.
Construction to convert the busy intersection from traditional traffic lights to a roundabout began in the spring. The $9 million overhaul was one of the city's "top 10 construction projects for 2023."
After months of work, the intersection was completely closed for five days in the lead up to the roundabout opening. Signage and temporary markings are in place to reflect the interim one-lane roundabout configuration and help drivers navigate through.
The second lane of the roundabout is expected to open in mid-to-late November, a month earlier than expected. Until then, Colonel Talbot Road will remain closed to traffic north of the intersection.
Two pedestrian crossings with signage and overhead lights have been installed on the north and east sides of the roundabout for pedestrians to use until construction is totally completed.
The reconstruction of the intersection was undertaken to make the area safer for all road users while also preparing for future travel demand in the area. This also included the addition of in-boulevard bike paths and pedestrian sidewalks.