Roundabouts

A roundabout replaced a flashing red light that was causing traffic jams at an intersection in Wanker's Corner, Oregon. Locals are calling it a miracle.

They're safer, faster, require less fuel use and enhance public space. So why do Americans tend to reject proposals for roundabouts?

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

In and around Washington D.C., traffic planners are experimenting with converting intersections to traffic circles. Residents are slowly embracing the new roundabouts.