A new roundabout will open this evening on University Avenue at Veterans Memorial Drive, replacing the traffic light that once governed the intersection.

The roundabout was originally planned to begin construction in the spring of 2019, but delays by AT&T forced construction to start in mid-July instead.

Troy students have been the primary people affected, as the road closure has eliminated the university’s main entrance off George Wallace Drive as an option to access the campus.

The road will open at 5 p.m. today, and then be closed Saturday for the Troy University vs Arkansas State football game.

“Please exercise caution in this area due to continued construction around this area,” said Herbert Reeves, dean of student services. “The road will reopen once the football game is over.”

Reeves said the hope is that the roundabout will actually improve traffic flow once it is completed, with a parking lot being added off the roundabout next to the new recreation and fitness center.

Construction is not yet complete on the new road and fitness center parking lot, but the roundabout will be accessible from both sides of University Avenue and the current Veterans Memorial Drive.