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Drivers to use roundabout near Porterdale today
roundabout
New roundabout configuration near Porterdale. - photo by Submitted Photo

PORTERDALE, Ga. — Newton County drivers should expect to use the new roundabout near Porterdale today, Georgia Department of Transportation said.

Contractors are scheduled to finalize the shift this morning and will place drivers inside the circle by early afternoon, according to GDOT.

"This will be a major change for those used to the old intersection," GDOT said.

GDOT provided a few major keys for navigating the new roundabout:
  • When approaching a roundabout, slow down and observe advisory speed limit signs. 
  • When entering a roundabout, yield to traffic already in the circle. Look left and then enter when there is a safe distance in the circulating traffic.
  • When at the roundabout, drive counter-clockwise and obey signs at all times.
  • When inside the roundabout, DO NOT STOP. You have the right of way. Approaching the exit, turn on the right turn signal.

The $2.8 million intersection rebuild project at State Route 81 and State Route 162 has a completion date of May 31, 2020.

According to GDOT, upcoming work on the intersection project include activating lighting along the roadway approaches, center island landscaping, curb and gutter, driveways and removing the original State Route 162 north section.
Hwy 81
Work continues on the new roundabout at Highways 81 and 162 near Porterdale. - photo by Darryl Welch