From what I understand, the King George Board of Supervisors was interested in having a stoplight placed at the intersection. This is because of the difficulty vehicles have crossing or turning onto Dahlgren Road and the number of accidents that have occurred there.

The Virginia Department of Transportation has begun planning to make changes to the intersection, but it says there is not enough traffic to warrant a stoplight. Instead, it wants to add turn lanes. However, the county and its residents have shown opposition to this.

I do not know if the county or VDOT has considered it, but my suggestion is to construct a roundabout at that intersection. A roundabout would naturally slow traffic down without necessarily causing it to stop; it would make it much easier for vehicles entering or crossing from the adjacent roads; it would reduce the severity of accidents that occur; and it might not require as much land as the turn lanes would.

I live on Dahlgren Road and drive on it frequently, so I am familiar with the dangers it presents. I have seen numerous accidents and close calls at that intersection, and think a change that would improve safety is in order. Roundabouts are not as common as stoplights and stop signs, but they do work.

The U.S. Department of Transportation and VDOT both tout the safety, efficiency, and reduced construction and maintenance costs of roundabouts on their websites. Perhaps VDOT, the Board of Supervisors, and the residents of King George will consider a roundabout.

Jason Fitzgerald

King George