The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has fully opened the roundabout at Oxbow Road to both lanes of traffic effective the week of October 6. The temporary closure of Oxbow Road at Route 20, across from Arnie›s Towing, has been lifted to the relief of many commuters. MassDOT will place signage notifying drivers of the approaching roundabout and speed limits. 

MassDOT would like to remind drivers that when entering the roundabout, they should always yield to traffic already in the roundabout and enter only when there is a safe gap in traffic.

If staying on Route 20-Eastbound, drivers may use either lane to take the first exit to continue on Route 20-Eastbound and if reversing direction to travel on Route 20-Westbound, they should use the left lane of the roundabout and then take the third exit. If your destination is Oxbow Road, you should also use the left lane and take the second exit.

The roundabout on Route 20 at Oxbow Road was installed to address traffic and safety concerns in the area as well as to provide access to Oxbow Road and a location between Route 56 and Richardson Corner Road that allows vehicles to make a U-turn. Read more about roundabouts on the Federal Highway Administration website.

MassDOT also offers some tips for traveling through the new roundabout:

• Slow down and follow the posted advisory speeds as you approach the roundabout.

• Yield to traffic already in the roundabout and enter only when there is a safe gap in traffic.

• Be sure to allow extra space for trucks and large vehicles.

• Use your turn signal when exiting the roundabout.

• While inside the roundabout, keep moving and only stop unless necessary to keep traffic flowing smoothly.

• Please pay attention to all signage.

Tips for Trucks and Large Vehicles 

MassDOT also advises additional tips for oversized trucks and other large vehicles traveling through the roundabout:

• Enter and exit the roundabout at slower speeds to ensure the safety of other drivers traveling in the roundabout.

• If necessary while traveling in the left lane, use the truck apron, the central raised portion of the roundabout which has been designed to accommodate large vehicles.

• Be mindful of your truck’s path, especially in the single-lane configuration.

• Allow extra space for turning and merging and be cautious of smaller vehicles.

MassDOT is redesigning and reconstructing Route 20 in Charlton and Oxford to improve safety and traffic operations. Proposed work includes widening the roadway, replacing bridges over the Little River and the French River, adding sidewalks and shared use paths, installing a median barrier, improving safety and traffic operations at various intersections, and enhancing stormwater treatment.