Trustees Vote to Drop Pursuit of Roundabout

Oft-debated—and even more oft-lamented—plans for a roundabout at 183rd and Oak Park Avenue in Tinley Park were squashed last week after a vote by officials.

Trustees voted 3-2 against entering into an agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation to secure federal funds and services for the project. Board newcomers Brian Younker, Michael Pannitto and Jacob Vandenberg voted against the resolution; trustees T.J. Grady and Bernie Brady voted in favor. Trustee Brian Maher was absent.

Officials often touted that a roundabout would help cut back on traffic problems, which sees traffic converge from First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre, Tinley Park Convention Center, and I-80. Ideally, the roundabout would funnel drivers around a center island, only allowing righthand turns.

“After hearing numerous residents’ concerns and also the amount of traffic that comes through that particular intersection on a regular day and also special events like concerts, I didn’t feel it was a good idea,” said Trustee Brian Younker. “We also had input from other towns/cities that have roundabouts, but none had them in similar locations as ours at 183/Oak Park Ave.

“I personally think roundabouts are a great idea, but not at this particular location.”