Progress Continues on Smith and Kelson Roundabout Project

By: Shelia Mader

The Times last reported on this project in August, and there’s been steady progress since then. According to City Manager William Long, the project officially began after receiving its Notice to Proceed on November 11, 2024, Veterans Day.

Long explained that several factors contributed to the delays throughout the year. “This project included several different aspects beyond just the roundabout,” he said. “There was significant utility relocation, realignment of the roadway, and the creation of a holding pond behind Golson Elementary, near the hospital.”

The intersection of Smith and Kelson has been closed since February 11, 2025. Although the current completion date of October 17, 2025 has passed, work continues on the roundabout, as shown in a photo taken October 28, 2025, by Times photographer Mark Skinner.

Work also continues on the holding pond, where sod installation is scheduled to begin soon. Once complete, readers can look forward to a special addition from the Times at the holding pond site.

While the project has certainly caused disruptions for drivers in the Kelson and Smith area, Long remains optimistic. “The end result will be an improvement for traffic flow in the area,” he said.