Malfunction Junction closure creates traffic challenges
![Concrete barricades block access to Plantation Road and Beaver Dam Road from Roue 9 and Route 1 with the traffic signal removed. The closure, which will last for six months, is necessary for road improvements – including a roundabout – at the intersection known as Malfunction Junction. RON MACARTHUR PHOTO](/sites/capegazette/files/2023/11/field/image/_DSC3208.jpg)
Until May 2024, motorists will face detours around the Plantation Road-Beaver Dam Road-Route 9 intersection, with no access to Route 1 from Plantation Road, as work continues on a Delaware Department of Transportation road improvement project.
The intersection is closed to traffic to allow for completion of a two-lane roundabout at the intersection with a new access road from the southbound lanes of Route 1. DelDOT officials say a section of the roundabout will be open in March to allow traffic flow from Plantation Road to Beaver Dam Road.
Lowe’s along Plantation Road is impacted by the project. A new access road from the Lewes Transit Center to the Lowe’s parking lot is expected to be operational the first week in December. Meanwhile, access is available on a short section of Plantation Road, which is open for Lowe’s traffic.
![Plantation Road in front of Lowe’s is closed for six months so work crews can finish the Route 9-Plantation Road-Beaver Dam Road roundabout. Motorists can use a short section of Plantation Road still open to access the Lowe’s parking lot. RON MACARTHUR PHOTO](/sites/capegazette/files/2023/11/field/image/_DSC3184.jpg)
![Part of the DelDOT improvement project includes a new entrance off Route 1 to Route 9 and the roundabout. NICK ROTH PHOTO](/sites/capegazette/files/2023/11/field/image/MalFun1.jpg)
![Someone has already moved one of the barrels blocking access to Stingey Lane, a dirt road connecting Route 9 and Beaver Dam Road. RON MACARTHUR PHOTO](/sites/capegazette/files/2023/11/field/image/_DSC3232.jpg)
![A warning sign greets motorists on Plantation Road heading toward Route 1. Access to the highway will not be possible, but Shady Road is open as a detour route. RON MACARTHUR PHOTO](/sites/capegazette/files/2023/11/field/image/_DSC3175.jpg)