The 18th Street Southeast roundabout is officially open, marking a significant improvement in our city's traffic flow and safety. This project, opening on November 30, is a collaboration between Steele County, the city of Owatonna, and Owatonna Public Schools—showing our combined dedication to safer roads and better travel for everyone.

Remaining construction, including the east leg of the roundabout, will be wrapped up next year. For now, traffic is being directed through a temporary route at the existing railroad crossing. This will stand until the railroad completes its new crossing with signals and gates.

As we transition to using the new roundabout, let's review some key safety tips:

For drivers:

• Slow down when you're coming up to the roundabout.
• Remember to yield to folks on foot at crosswalks—that's the law.
• Vehicles cruising in the roundabout have right-of-way, so yield before you enter, and then join the flow when it's safe.
• Keep moving until you get to your exit. Avoid stopping or passing other cars in the roundabout.
• If an emergency vehicle comes through, exit the roundabout first, then safely pull over.

For pedestrians:

• It's important to cross only at crosswalks and stick to the sidewalks.
• Steer clear of the central island.
• Tackle one approach at a time. The median island is there for you to take a pause and check for cars.

For bicyclists:

• While riding in traffic, follow the same rules as cars.
• If you prefer, you can use crosswalks, but make sure to give way just like everyone else on the road.

These tips are here to keep you and everyone else on our roads safe. Stay tuned for any updates on street projects city-wide on the official Owatonna website and the Steele County website.