HAMILTON (CR 606), KUSER (CR 619) & LIBERTY INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS

Phase: Construction Completed- Final Inspections In Progress

Purpose and Need: Improve network connectivity, improve operations and improve road safety for drivers and pedestrians. New traffic signal equipment.

Background:

Hamilton Avenue (CR 606) at Liberty Street and Kuser Road/Ward Ave has one of the highest crash rates in the County and Mercer County has recently completed the concept development phase to determine appropriate safety improvements and preferred alternatives. Some 48 reported crashes occurred in a 3-year period from 2013 to 2015, not including unreported crashes relating to private property destruction.

Mercer County successfully applied for a competitive Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ) grant for the construction of intersection improvements at Hamilton Ave (CR 606), Kuser Road (CR 619) and Ward Ave as well as intersection of Hamilton Ave and Liberty Street. Construction is now complete and final inspections are in progress.

This project has eliminated entry to Liberty from Hamilton (i.e., one way out) and added left turn storage for all approaches to Kuser/Ward, removing the signal at Liberty (which is now stop controlled and had geometry revised to improve sight lines) and upgraded all signal equipment at Kuser/Ward. Left turns from Hamilton (WB) to Liberty (SB) are now diverted to Johnston Avenue, the next intersection west on Hamilton.

Johnston was previously stop controlled but existing volumes and increasing left turn volumes at Johnston increases warranted a signal. Left turn storage was added on Hamilton at Johnston, both EB and WB. Left turn storage and signalizing the intersection with Johnston will also dramatically reduce the incidence of left turn and crossing (T-bone) crashes at this intersection.

No roadway widening was required for these operational improvements, though one curb radius was eased (SW corner of Hamilton @ Kuser/Ward) and the curb at Liberty was extended to enforce one-way operation, all within existing right of way. Signal operations at Kuser/Ward and Johnston have now been synchronized.

                                                                                Please click on the map above. 

Crash Report - Hamilton Avenue, Kuser/Ward, Liberty Street Intersection

                                                            Please click the image below for more information