Roundabouts 20% More Effective At Moving Traffic

8 July 2009 - 5:00am

Roundabouts, usually considered a quirky European development, can reduce delays at intersections by 20%, according to studies by Kansas State University.

Project for Public Spaces takes a look at the study and modern roundabout design.

"It turns out that roundabouts may be part of the panacea for our greatest traffic woes. Across America, towns and cities of all shapes and sizes have been choosing modern roundabouts over antiquated signalization equipment and expensive grade separated interchanges. The choice of a roundabout, or a modern roundabout, rather, makes sense for several reasons: they have proven to improve the flow of traffic, reduce cost, improve safety, and enhance the quality of place."

Source: Project For Public Spaces, June 25, 2009

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OK, but how about some better signage in rotaries ???

If there are any would be rotary planners reading, please put some better and/or color coded signage on these suckers.

I can't tell you how many times I end up driving around in circles because I can't read the street signs in time (or at all.) In the DC area you might have 4 to 6 streets intersecting at the round point, and you have to be in the right lane at the right time to make the turn.

Arrgh.

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Instead of demeaning so-called "third world cities", we would do well to observe, understand, and adapt such approach on a much more widescale basis.