Times Observer file photo This conceptual design gives a rough look at what the intersection of Market St. and Pennsylvania Ave. will look like once roundabout construction is completed. Work is expected to start by next April and the decision, according to PennDOT, cannot be reversed.

It’s not particularly surprising that the proposed — and approved — roundabout for the intersection of Market Street and Pennsylvania Avenue became a campaign topic.

Mayoral candidate Dave Wortman called it “the number one concern of our citizens” in the Times Observer’s election preview story.

“They don’t want it and it’s not good for Warren,” he continued.

“How our residents and business community were not listened to when making this decision is not acceptable and needs to be remedied going forward. The big problem now is what to do about it. The next steps for the new council will be difficult but necessary and that is to reopen up the conversation with PennDOT and explore what it will take to stop this from happening.”

But city and state officials were clear: The decision cannot be undone.

Construction is expected to start next spring.

“As far as the project is concerned, it’s in final design,” Jill Harry, PennDOT press officer, explained. “Agreements between the state and city have already been signed as well. So the project is headed toward construction here (at) the beginning of next year, April at the latest.”

City Manager Nancy Freenock said a “group of citizens went to PennDOT a few months ago to inquire about reversing Council’s decision and they were told by the district executive that it is too late to reverse course.

“The project is well into the design phase,” she said.

Harry explained that all but one right of way — either permanent or temporary for construction purposes — has been settled.

“Utility companies have already started doing some of their work as a precursor to the construction that will start next year,” she added.

So even if it wanted to, the city can’t back out now?

“That would be correct,” Harry said. “The agreement… that’s what those are for. The project is well on its way now.”