By John H. Campbell
USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs Office
Drivers at Patch Barracks should prepare for changes associated with a new traffic circle starting next week near the alternate entrance to the installation.
U.S. Army Garrison (USAG) Stuttgart crews will begin painting lines this weekend to address traffic challenges at the intersection of Arkansas Strasse and Montana Strasse, near the entrance/exit commonly known as the “K&K Gate.”
“This project is being done in response to community concerns,” said Marisa Barrie, USAG Stuttgart’s Director of Public Works. “We’ve received a lot of feedback that many people see opportunities to improve safety in this area.”
Barrie says the work will consist of restriping the intersection and that no physical barrier will be installed. Workers will paint a circle in the middle of the intersection. When the work is complete, rules of standard roundabouts will apply, requiring drivers to yield to oncoming vehicles in the circle.
“We have received numerous comments about near misses at that intersection,” said USAG Stuttgart Police Chief Johnnie Kibler. “After analyzing the situation, we determined a traffic circle would increase safety, improve traffic flow, and reduce the congestion that occurs during the morning commute.”
As a result of the work, the K&K gate will be closed Friday and Monday (the gate is typically closed on weekends). Officials made the decision to do the work at this time as traffic is expected to be lighter due to the upcoming Labor Day holiday. The intersection will remain open while the work takes place although drivers should be cautious for lane closures and other adjustments in traffic patterns during this time.
The rules of the roundabout take effect upon completion of the work.