A roundabout is a one-way circular intersection that serves vehicles from every approach simultaneously, unlike a traffic signal. The approach medians and center island of a roundabout deflects the entering traffic and limits driving speeds to below 25 mph. Roundabouts are one of the safest and most effective types of intersections and can reduce injury accidents, overall traffic delays, and fuel consumption.  

WHY CONSIDER A ROUNDABOUT AT A STREET INTERSECTION?

Roundabouts should be considered at locations based on an engineering study of existing and future traffic for an intersection. Federal Highway Administration guidelines show that roundabouts increase safety for all users of an intersection, improves operations and decreases delays compared to stop control and traffic signal alternatives.

Roundabouts near schools have proven successful in many cases throughout the United States. A roundabout near a school zone may be a form of traffic calming since vehicles are forced to slow down and yield to traffic.

ROUNDABOUT INFORMATION AND RESOURCES

Roundabout Consideration/Safety Benefits
Pedestrian Safety
How to Walk a Roundabout
Large Vehicles/Emergency Vehicles
Roundabout in Action (Blue Valley School District)

Next Section: Roundabout Consideration/Safety Benefits