Major Road Revamp in Seminole: New Roundabout to Slash Crashes!

102nd Avenue North, Seminole, FL, USA - On June 22, 2025, Pinellas County officially kicked off a substantial $15.7 million project to upgrade 102nd Avenue North in unincorporated Seminole. The objective? To transform this two-lane roadway into a three-lane corridor featuring a roundabout aimed at boosting safety and improving traffic flow. According to Tampa Bay Times, local officials are especially concerned about the alarming rate of accidents in this area, with a staggering 64 crashes occurring over five years, particularly at the intersection with 113th Street.

The project is not just about adding lanes; it’s a comprehensive approach to addressing longstanding safety issues. Kelli Hammer Levy, the Pinellas County public works director, emphasizes the ambitious goals of this initiative—enhancing safety for all types of road users while also improving drainage systems along the corridor. Key to this transformation is a two-lane roundabout at Ridge Road, a feature that has proven effective in reducing accidents by over 70%. A similar roundabout in Hillsborough County resulted in a 71% decrease in crashes, along with positive feedback from 73% of the public.

Roundabouts: A Smart Solution

Efforts to upgrade road safety through innovative designs align with broader trends in traffic management. In fact, improving intersection safety has become a top priority for Pinellas County, where corners account for approximately 25% of all traffic fatalities and half of severe crashes, according to information from Pinellas County Government. Roundabouts, in particular, are being considered for their ability to lower accident rates while facilitating smooth vehicle movement. They effectively cut vehicle speeds to under 25 mph, significantly minimizing conflict points between drivers and pedestrians compared to traditional intersections.

Modern roundabouts have gained ground due to their impressive safety credentials. Studies reveal that they can lead to a 90% reduction in fatal crashes and a 75% drop in injury crashes. The engineering behind these roundabouts—featuring central islands and splitter islands—ensures that large vehicles can navigate through them safely while keeping pedestrian crossings secure. Additionally, they can improve traffic flow by increasing capacity by 30-50% over conventional stop signs or signals, making the roads far more efficient during peak hours, as highlighted by the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Addressing Community Concerns

Despite the potential benefits, some residents have raised eyebrows about how these changes might affect traffic dynamics and drainage in the area. The design phase of the project, currently at 60%, is open to community feedback, with the intent to iron out concerns before construction begins in early 2027 and wraps up by early 2028. It is reassuring to know that throughout construction, one lane of traffic will remain open in each direction to maintain access for residents.

The project includes not just the addition of a roundabout but also features like upgraded traffic signals and improved stormwater drainage. New signals will be implemented at 125th Street North, enhancing pedestrian safety near schools and local parks. Milling and resurfacing the roadway, as well as creating a center turn lane, will help to alleviate current traffic congestion, a thoughtful plan for a bustling corner of Seminole.

In conclusion, this roadway enhancement project represents a forward-thinking, community-centered approach to addressing our local traffic woes. As we welcome modern solutions like roundabouts into our neighborhoods, we’re hopeful for fewer accidents and smoother commutes. Change can be daunting, but when it comes to safety, there’s something to be said for taking the plunge!