An apparatus includes a node situated to receive an odd-number X of input/output communication branches extending from respective ports, each communication branch including two input/output fiber pairs, and a 2·X degree ROADM coupled to the two input/output fiber pairs of each of the X ports and configured to reduce a wavelength blocking of traffic through the node that is associated with the odd-number X. Methods of directing communication signals to and receiving communication signals from communication nodes are also disclosed.