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431922-1 S.R. 44 at Kepler Road Intersection Improvements
Project Details
About
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is constructing a two-lane roundabout at the intersection of State Road (S.R.) 44 (East New York Avenue) and Kepler Road in DeLand, Volusia County, to enhance safety and improve the flow of traffic. The design includes two lanes throughout the roundabout and will have a concrete apron to accommodate large trucks.
Pedestrian safety enhancements include new sidewalks and crosswalks equipped with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) at the roundabout approaches. Each RRFB will include flashing yellow LED lights to increase drivers’ awareness of pedestrians crossing at the roundabout.
To learn more about Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs), including how to use them:
There will also be a right turn bypass lane at three of the four road connections. In addition to construction of the roundabout, the project also includes resurfacing of S.R. 44 from approximately 800 feet west of Kepler Road to Talisman Lane and resurfacing of Kepler Road from 650 feet south of S.R. 44 to 1,250 feet north of S.R. 44. A center bi-directional turn lane will also be added along S.R. 44 from east of Kepler Road to Lake Winnemissett Drive.
To learn more about roundabouts, including how to use them:
Contact Information
Lane Closures
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Monday, June 15: The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has converted the roundabout at State Road (S.R.) 44 (East New York Avenue) and Kepler Road in DeLand to from one to two lanes. The two‑lane roundabout opened to traffic early Monday morning, June 15.
The intersection was previously converted from a signalized intersection to a single-lane roundabout on November 20, 2025. The phased conversion to a two-lane configuration allows motorists time to adjust to the new traffic pattern while also providing a safe and efficient construction zone as crews continue to work.
How to Navigate: Signs are in place to help motorists safely navigate the area. Please refer to the following guidance:
- Drivers should choose which lane to travel in before entering the roundabout.
- If going straight, they will use either lane.
- If turning right, they will use the right lane.
- If turning left or making a U-Turn, they will use the left lane.
- Vehicles should enter the roundabout to their right and continue counterclockwise.
- Drivers entering the roundabout should slow down and must yield to traffic already in the roundabout. The speed limit within the roundabout is 25 mph.
- Motorists should not change lanes or stop within the roundabout and should signal before exiting.
- The only time it is appropriate to stop in a roundabout is when yielding to pedestrians and bicyclists.
Watch these videos for additional navigation information:
Other Features: Pedestrian safety improvements include sidewalks and crosswalks equipped with Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) that increase drivers’ awareness of pedestrians. The roundabout also includes a brick-colored concrete apron that allows trucks and other large vehicles to safely travel through the roundabout. The center island was constructed in partnership with the City of DeLand, creating a gateway feature that includes a City of DeLand sign and landscaping.
Why a Roundabout? This intersection was experiencing a high number of crashes, with 81 total crashes recorded over a four-year study period. Compared with signalized intersections, roundabouts reduce the likelihood of severe-injury and fatal crashes by up to 82%. Roundabouts support a continuous flow of vehicles, helping reduce congestion at an intersection expected to experience increased traffic from future economic and residential growth in the area. The amount of traffic moving through a roundabout at any given time is up to 50% greater than a traditional signalized intersection. Roundabouts also slow traffic approaching the intersection and decrease the number of vehicle conflict points where crashes can occur, making the intersection safer for both motorists and pedestrians.
FDOT advises motorists to reduce speed, follow posted signage, and exercise caution in the work zone.
- Drivers should choose which lane to travel in before entering the roundabout.