A proposed redesign of the Fulton Road, 25th Street and Harrison Avenue intersection would introduce a roundabout with railroad tracks running directly through it — a feature city officials say will improve safety but may be unfamiliar to drivers.
The Fulton Road/25th Street/Harrison Avenue Intersection Improvement Project aims to replace the existing traffic signal with a multi-lane roundabout designed to ease congestion and improve traffic flow. The intersection currently includes an active railroad crossing, which would remain as part of the new design.
Under the proposal, vehicles would navigate the roundabout while also crossing the railroad tracks that cut through the intersection. Plans call for upgraded, ADA-compliant rail crossings, along with enhanced warning systems and traffic control features intended to safely manage both train and vehicle movement.
City officials say roundabouts can reduce serious crashes and improve efficiency, even in areas with rail crossings, by slowing traffic and eliminating stop-and-go signal delays.
In addition to traffic improvements, the project includes pedestrian-friendly upgrades such as enhanced crosswalks, flashing signals and better connections to nearby destinations including Stadium Park, McKinley High School, the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the West Branch Trail.
The project will also include water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure improvements, along with new landscaping and streetscaping elements.
Funding for the project includes $7.5 million from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program through the Stark County Area Transportation Study. Officials say additional state and federal funding will be pursued and that the project will not increase taxes.
Construction could significantly impact traffic, with three options under consideration. One would fully close the intersection for a shorter construction period, while others would allow limited traffic to continue on Fulton Road during the work.
The project is currently in the design phase, expected to continue through 2027, with right-of-way acquisition planned for 2027 to 2028 and construction targeted for 2029 to 2030.
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the proposal through May 9, 2026. Comments can be submitted by phone at 330-489-3381 or by email at Engineering@cantonohio.gov. Mailed comments should be sent to the Canton City Engineering Department, 2436 30th Street NE, Building A, Canton, OH 44702. An online comment form is also available at www.structurepointpublic.com/fulton25harrison. Residents are asked to reference the Fulton Road/25th Street/Harrison Avenue Intersection Improvement Project in all correspondence.
