Well designed roundabouts improve capacity, safety, and offer other benefits such as aesthetics and air quality when compared to traditional intersection solutions. Designing a roundabout is different than designing a signalized intersection. Unlike a traffic signal, where capacity is primarily determined by the number of lanes and cycle length, a roundabout's capacity and functionality is determined by a myriad of factors ranging from lane widths, locations of curbs, striping and signing, sight distances, view angles, inscribed diameter, entry deflection, lighting and even the landscaping are all important factors in creating an environment in which the driver, pedestrian and bicyclist cooperate to safely and efficiently move through the intersection. And while there are ways to quantity most of these parameters, it takes a skilled designer to optimize the design by blending each of these parameters within the context of the project and goals of the community. Our designers are well versed in the design intricacies and have extensive experience in the design and implementation of roundabout facilities.
Key Benefits:
- Air quality - Reduced idling (stop) time at the intersection
- Cost effective - Eliminate signal maintenance costs, narrower roadway segments between intersections - existing freeway overcrossing may not need to be widened!
- Operation - Improved operating level of service
- Safety - Proven reduction in accident frequency and severity
