Newest Highway 154 roundabout near Los Olivos opens in both directions

SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, Calif. - The newest roundabout on Highway 154 has reached a major milestone in its long construction project.

Caltrans reported the roundabout, which is located near Los Olivos at the intersection of Highway 154, along with Edison Street and Baseline Avenue, is now open to travelers in both directions heading north and south.

The new roundabout replaces a four-way stop at the intersection that for years featured a blinking light the hung close to Valley of the Shepard Lutheran Church.

"There's no doubt in my mind that it will improve safety tremendously and that we witnessed many near accidents with the flashing lights here," said past church president Marv Newton. "Previously, when people would realize the at the last second they were supposed to stop, and did not do that until they slid into the intersection, so I do believe safety will be greatly enhanced."

Construction at the site is still ongoing and the west side of the intersection of Baseline Street/Edison Avenue will remain closed until all work has been completed.

Caltrans added the roundabout is being installed on the busy roadway to improve safety at the busy location.

"Without a doubt, I believe the roundabout will improve the safety condition at this intersection because it will prevent people from having to come to a complete stop and wait and impatience is generally what causes accidents," said Newton. "Safety is the primary goal. I came here in 1971. There was nowhere near this traffic and nowhere near the speed that people are using on Highway 154, which is a major factor in any accident."

The roundabout joins another one that was built in 2014 and is located about two miles south at the intersection of Highways 154 and 246.

According to Caltrans, the $8.7 million project also includes the installation of curb ramps, rumble strips and a lighting system and is expected to be completed sometime this spring.