Douglas County Plans Roundabout to Enhance Safety Near New Bennington High School

Safety improvements took center stage at the Douglas County Board of Commissioners meeting on August 19, 2025, with a focus on two key initiatives aimed at enhancing roadway safety in the Omaha Metro area: Safe Streets for All and the City of Omaha's Vision Zero plan.

During the meeting, officials highlighted the tragic loss of a young woman last spring due to a red-light violation at an intersection, underscoring the urgent need for safer traffic solutions. In response, Douglas County has collaborated with Bennington's engineering team to construct a roundabout at the intersection of 170th and Military, replacing a standard T intersection. This project is part of a broader effort to improve safety near schools and high-traffic areas.

Commissioner Fitzroy emphasized the county's active role in these initiatives, detailing how they facilitate communication with the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPPA) to identify and secure funding for safety projects. He noted that the county is also participating in cost-sharing for the roundabout to ensure it meets safety standards.

The meeting also addressed ongoing construction projects across the county, with updates on various road improvements scheduled for 2025 and beyond. These include the expansion of key intersections and the development of new roadways to accommodate increasing traffic demands.

Commissioners engaged in discussions about the design and maintenance of roundabouts, with some expressing concerns about pedestrian safety and the need for thoughtful urban design. Fitzroy reassured attendees that modern roundabout designs prioritize pedestrian safety by allowing for safer crossing patterns.

As Douglas County continues to prioritize road safety, the implementation of these initiatives and projects aims to significantly reduce traffic-related incidents and enhance the overall safety of the community. The county plans to keep the public informed as these projects progress, with further updates expected in the coming months.