Centerton engineers say roundabout planned at Kimmel and Greenhouse; four‑way stop not simple due to multi‑jurisdictional issues

Centerton — Residents who urged a four‑way stop at Kimmel and Greenhouse were told on Sept. 9 that the city is pursuing a larger safety and widening project that calls for a roundabout; staff warned that right‑of‑way acquisition, utility relocations and coordination with Bentonville and Benton County will lengthen the schedule. Why it matters: The intersection has been the site of crashes and is near several new housing developments. Drivers and residents said left turns during peak hours can be difficult; staff emphasized a corridor safety plan and funding timing as the basis for the roundabout decision. What staff said: City engineers and the mayor explained the project is in the acquisition and utility‑relocation stage. Staff noted multiple property owners, 13 utilities in the corridor, and that the east side of Greenhouse near the intersection is within Bentonville’s jurisdiction while the west side is Centerton’s. Engineers said a simple four‑way stop could create longer backups on Highway 102 and transfer risk to nearby intersections. Timing and impacts: Staff said acquisition should finish next year and utility relocations could take a year or more; construction will proceed north from Highway 102. Council emphasized the "speed of government" and predicted it could be several years before the roundabout is completed. Staff agreed to request accident reports and to coordinate with Bentonville and Benton County as requests for safety data come in. Outcome: No immediate change in traffic control was approved. Staff agreed to follow up on accident data and to continue coordination with neighboring jurisdictions.