How to Navigate a Roundabout

After much anticipation for completion of local road construction projects, this local area looks much different than it did just a few short months ago. Not only are the roadways beautified with nice wide walking and bike trails, new pavement and a cleaner updated look, this area has something far different now at the DeWitt Road and Clark Road intersection—a roundabout. A roundabout is something that many residents may not know much about and some may even be fearful of using. If used properly, a roundabout can increase traffic flow and make for a safer intersection. Roundabouts do NOT use stop signs. Instead you will see yield signs which are very important and need to be adhered to. Here are some tips from the DeWitt Township Police Department on how to successfully navigate your vehicle through the roundabout:

Reduce your speed, slow down and look to your left before entering the roundabout. Remember that traffic already traveling in the roundabout has the right of way. Although you will slow down, you shouldn’t come to a complete stop. If there isn’t any traffic in the roundabout, you can even enter without fully yielding.

Keep a low, steady speed as you continue to drive through the roundabout. As you approach your desired exit, activate your turn signal to let other drivers know your intention. You don’t need to slow down further or come to a stop to exit the roundabout. The only exceptions are when pedestrians are in the crosswalk or if an emergency vehicle is approaching. If an emergency vehicle is getting ready to enter the roundabout, exit at your destination and pull over immediately. Do not ever stop or pull over in the roundabout.

If everyone can safely follow these above tips when utilizing our new roundabout, it will not only make traffic flow much better but it will allow for a more safe and enjoyable travel through DeWitt Township.

Firework Safety

The National Safety Council indicates that approximately 12,000 people are injured every year due to fireworks. Over two-thirds of the injuries take place from June 16 through July 16. Of the 12,000 injured, 50% are children and young adults under the age of 20.

Sparklers are also dangerous since they burn at 2000 degrees. Many young children receive burns to their hands and feet.
DeWitt Township Fire did respond to several injuries and fires due to fireworks last year. The following are tips to stay safe:

Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
Never hold ignited fireworks in your hands
Never light them indoors
Never point or throw them at another person
Do not attempt to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
Only use them away from people, houses, and other structures
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of a fire
Know where your fireworks are landing - what goes up does come down

When is your 10?

“When is your 10?” was a program launched on the east coast to promote stepping out for a 10-minute walk each day. What a great reminder that it takes only 10 minutes, three times a day, to improve our health and well-being. Take your kids, take your friends, take your dog, even take a picture of something interesting that you see along the way.

The walking paths in DeWitt Township provide wonderful opportunities to walk our community safely, and in any direction. Have you explored our newest walking paths? Part wooded, part open space, we have it all. If you do find yourself using a roadway, please remember to be bright and wear high visibility clothing. Be seen, be alert and have healthy fun!

Township Parks and the Great Outdoors

Warm weather and sunshine provide the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy the township’s extensive parks and pathways. The most popular recreation areas are located throughout the township at the following locations;

Community Center, 16101 Brook Road, Lansing
Granger Meadows, 1275 Granger Meadows Lane, Lansing
Valley Farms Park, 1080 E. Wieland Road, Lansing
Looking Glass Riverfront Park, 3912 W. Herbison Road, DeWitt
Richard A. Padgett Natural Area, 3661 W. Herbison Road, DeWitt
Station House Park, 1401 W. Herbison Road, DeWitt
Valley-Turner Green Space, intersection of E. Valley and Turner Roads, Lansing
DeWitt Dog Park, 3661 W. Herbison Road, DeWitt
Coleman Road Green Space, intersection of Coleman Road and Dana Drive, Lansing

The Township has resumed accepting community center, picnic pavilions and field rentals. Email parks@dewittwp.org or call 517-668-1411 to inquire about rental opportunities for your group.

Important Upcoming Dates

July 1st: July 1st Summer Tax levy
July 5th: Township Office Closed for Independence Day observation
July 15th: Quarterly sewer bills due

E-News June 2021

How to Navigate a Roundabout

Firework Safety

When is your 10?

Township Parks and the Great Outdoors

Important Upcoming Dates