Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I turn left on to 265th W. Avenue from SH-51?
The purpose of the project is to increase safety and traffic mobility. Allowing left turns across traffic on SH-51 presents additional opportunity for collisions. Closing the median opening at 265th W. Avenue will provide additional safety benefit.
How much longer will it take me to get where I want to go?
To make a right turn, use the U-turn, and return in the other direction will take less than one minute, assuming no traffic delays. Because the MUT intersection does not require drives to wait for a gap in both directions of traffic on SH-51 at the same time, delay is expected to be reduced.
How will trucks or vehicles with trailers use this new intersection?
Trucks and vehicles with trailers will use the MUT intersection in the same ways as all other traffic. There will be additional pavement added to the outside of SH-51 at the U-Turn locations to accommodate the larger turning radii of these vehicles.
How will I get to 51 West Storage?
Access to this business will be in the same location as it is today. Vehicles traveling westbound on SH-51 will turn right into the business like they do today. Vehicles traveling eastbound on SH-51 will no longer be able to turn left into the business. They will use the U-Turn at that location and then turn right into the business. The project has been designed to allow for this movement, including by large vehicles with trailers.
When leaving 51 West Storage, vehicles wanting to go east (turn left) will turn right, use the U-turn west of 265th W. Avenue, then return in the other direction. This will mean about 1 mile of additional travel. However, total travel time may decrease because vehicles will no longer need to wait for gaps in both directions of traffic.
Will ODOT need to purchase any property for this project?
No, the improvements can be constructed within the existing SH-51 right-of-way, and no additional property is expected to be needed.
What if ODOT needs temporary access for construction or a maintenance easement?
Sometimes ODOT will need temporary access or an easement to construct a driveway or maintain the highway and drainage structures. Owners will be compensated for temporary right-of-way and for maintenance easements. In these cases, you will maintain ownership of the property. If your property will be affected, an ODOT-authorized agent will contact you.
When is construction scheduled to begin?
Construction is anticipated to begin in summer of 2022. However, the schedule is dependent on funding and subject to change.
How will the project be built?
SH-51 will remain open during construction and phased construction will be used. Some lane closures may be required; however, at least one lane of traffic in each direction on SH-51 will be maintained at all times. Phased construction will be used on 265th W. Avenue and disruption to traffic will be minimal. The median openings at 265th W. Avenue and 51 West Storage will remain open until the new U-turns are constructed. The entire construction project is expected to last approximately 4 months.
Will there be access to my home and property during construction?
Yes, access to homes, businesses, and property adjacent to the project will be maintained during all phases of construction.
How does ODOT calculate existing and future traffic numbers?
Traffic counts are taken every two years on state highways. The existing traffic numbers reflect the current condition. The future traffic numbers are projected based on a multiplier developed for the area.
Annual average daily traffic (AADT) is a measure used primarily in transportation engineering. Traditionally, it is the total volume of vehicle traffic of a highway or road for a year divided by 365 days. Therefore, there are days when there is more traffic, but this is an average. AADT is a simple, but useful, measurement of how busy the road is.
How can I get more information?
The best way to have your question answered is to submit a comment on the Submit a Comment page or email to environment@odot.org. If you would like to speak to a project representative, please call (405) 325-3269 and leave a detailed message.
