Construction on a $1.8 million roundabout at one of downtown Whiteville’s busiest intersections could begin as early as late March, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
The project will replace the existing traffic signal at the intersection of Madison Street (U.S. 701 Business), Lee Street, and Franklin Street. NCDOT recently awarded the contract to Fayetteville-based Highland Paving Co., which has until the end of the year to complete the work.
The intersection carries approximately 16,000 vehicles per day, making it a key downtown corridor for commuters, local residents and businesses.
Crash History Highlights Safety Opportunity
A five-year crash analysis conducted through NCDOT’s Traffic Engineering Accident Analysis System (December 2020 through November 2025) documented 16 crashes at the intersection .
The report shows:
• No fatal crashes
• Four injury crashes (25%)
• Twelve property-damage-only crashes (75%)
• Five total injuries
• An estimated $38,200 in property damage
Rear-end collisions were the most common crash type, accounting for nearly 44% of all crashes at the intersection . Most crashes occurred during daylight hours and in dry conditions, with higher concentrations between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when traffic volume and turning movements are typically heavier.
Transportation engineers note that rear-end and angle crashes are often associated with stop-and-go traffic, signal timing challenges, and driver decision conflicts — issues roundabouts are designed to reduce.
Why a Roundabout?
According to NCDOT, roundabouts improve safety by slowing vehicles to approximately 15–25 mph and eliminating the possibility of high-speed, right-angle “T-bone” collisions. Drivers yield upon entering and proceed counterclockwise around a central island, reducing conflict points compared to traditional signalized intersections.
NCDOT reports that roundabouts built across North Carolina have reduced fatal and injury crashes by 79% compared to traditional intersections.
In addition to safety improvements, the design is intended to improve traffic flow by eliminating long waits at red lights and reducing vehicle idling.
Construction and Detours
At some point during construction, the intersection will be temporarily closed. Traffic will be detoured along Lee Street, Franklin Street and Main Street. NCDOT will post closure updates in advance on DriveNC.gov, searchable under Columbus County.
NCDOT spokespersons have previously stated that the City of Whiteville will not bear any cost for the project and that the state agency will oversee construction.
Looking Ahead
While the intersection has not experienced fatal crashes in recent years, state officials say the roundabout is a proactive step aimed at improving long-term safety and traffic efficiency in downtown Whiteville.
If completed on schedule, the new roundabout could be operational before the end of the year.