April 10, 2026, City Manager's Blog
When it comes to roadway design, safety is always the City’s top priority. With some street improvement projects underway in Modesto, roundabouts are being implemented to improve the City’s transportation infrastructure, making our roadways safer for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
National research consistently shows that converting a signalized intersection to a roundabout can reduce severe crashes by up to 78 percent. While converting a two-way stop-controlled intersection to a roundabout can reduce fatal and injury crashes by up to 82 percent.
The modern roundabout is an intersection designed to keep vehicles moving as they yield to circulating traffic. A curved approach naturally slow vehicles as they enter, creating a safer environment for drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists.
Local data from the City’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program analysis supports these findings. The City of Modesto is continuing to invest in roundabouts as part of a broader effort to improve traffic safety.
Currently, three roundabouts are under construction:
- 9th Street and Carver Road
- 9th Street and Tully Road
- 9th Street and Needham Street
One will begin construction in Spring 2026:
- Claus Road and Merle Avenue
And an additional two are in the design phase:
- Paradise Road and Tuolumne Boulevard
- College Avenue and Bowen Avenue
All roundabouts are expected to be completed by the end of 2026 with College and Bowen Avenue, expected in 2027. The City will continue sharing safety tips and resources to help our community navigate roundabouts with confidence.
As our City continues to grow, so does our responsibility to ensure roadway safety and efficiency. Guided by the latest research and proven strategies, the City of Modesto remains committed to making informed decisions that support a safer community for current and future generations.