Roundabout at East Main St. & Shawnee Blvd.

One of the City of Jackson’s busiest intersections, East Main St. and Shawnee Blvd. had long been impacted by recurring flooding and increasing traffic congestion. To address these challenges, the City undertook a comprehensive infrastructure project centered around a new roundabout.

Cochran was instrumental in working with the City and Council to evaluate two prior studies completed by other consultants, which considered both a roundabout and a signalized intersection. Cochran’s review and analysis demonstrated that a roundabout would reduce peak traffic wait times by approximately 75 percent, compared to only a 60 percent improvement with a traditional signal. In addition, Cochran communicated the long-term safety and operational advantages of the roundabout, leading to the City’s decision to proceed with the proposed design.

Cochran provided study review, land surveying, engineering design, bidding documents, and construction engineering and inspection services. Final design included a storm sewer system to manage runoff and alleviate localized flooding that previously occurred during heavy rain events. Sanitary sewer modifications and water main relocation were also completed to support the new intersection layout and improve utility service.

Design improved traffic flow, increased safety, and calmed a once-congested intersection. Total project cost: $762,042. Completed ahead of schedule in 2020.