At around 12:09 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6, traffic came to a sudden halt at Kingston’s Broadway traffic circle after a flatbed semi-trailer unexpectedly dumped a large load of stone into the roadway. The incident occurred at the Albany Avenue entrance, a major access point into the busy roundabout.
Motorists were immediately impacted as the scattered stone created a hazardous blockage, forcing vehicles to reroute or wait in long lines. Within minutes, traffic began backing up in multiple directions, causing significant congestion during the midday rush.
No Injuries Reported, But Travel Disrupted
Fortunately, no injuries or collisions were reported in connection with the spill. However, the incident led to confusion and frustration among drivers, many of whom were stuck in gridlock or forced to find alternate routes through Kingston’s already complicated network of traffic circles.
Quick Cleanup Underway
City crews and emergency responders were dispatched promptly to assess the situation and begin cleanup efforts. Heavy equipment was brought in to remove the stone debris from the roadway, while police temporarily redirected traffic away from the Albany Avenue entrance to ensure safety and minimize additional disruption.
Officials on the scene worked quickly to restore normal traffic flow, but delays continued into the early afternoon as crews worked to fully clear the stone from the intersection.
Investigation Into Trailer Malfunction
Authorities are currently investigating how the trailer lost its load. Preliminary reports suggest a possible mechanical failure or improperly secured cargo may have caused the issue. The trucking company involved has not yet been named, and no citations or violations have been announced at this time.
A Reminder of Circle Hazards
Kingston’s traffic circles are known for their complex navigation and frequent near-misses, and this unusual incident serves as another reminder of the potential dangers when large vehicles enter these busy intersections.
While the stone spill may have been accidental, city officials emphasize the importance of safely securing all commercial loads, especially when navigating high-traffic areas like the Broadway circle.
Traffic Restored
By mid-afternoon, most of the stone had been cleared and normal traffic resumed, though minor residual delays continued for some time. The city thanked drivers for their patience and reminded residents to use caution when traveling through active cleanup zones.
Further details about the cause of the spill are expected following the completion of the city’s investigation.
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