WHY CONSIDER A ROUNDABOUT INSTEAD OF A TRAFFIC SIGNAL?

An engineering study of existing and future traffic found that a traffic signal is not warranted at this location per Federal Highway Administration guidelines, and therefore cannot be installed. 

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

WHY NOT INSTALL A TWO OR FOUR-WAY STOP?

Our engineering consultant studied the existing and future traffic for the intersection. Results indicated that a traditional stop-controlled intersection creates more delay to traffic resulting in a lower level of service than a roundabout. A roundabout significantly improves operations and decreases delay compared to the stop-control alternatives.

ARE ROUNDABOUTS A SAFE INTERSECTION ALTERNATIVE?

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Safety identified roundabouts as a Proven Safety Countermeasure. Roundabouts Improve safety for all users, including pedestrians and bicycles.

• Significantly Reduce the types of crashes that result in injury or loss of life (78-82% when compared to stop-controlled and signalized intersections)
• Fewer Conflict Points
• Promotes Slower Speeds
• Keeps Traffic Moving / Reduced Delays
• Refuge Island for Crossing Pedestrians
• Accommodate Buses and Emergency Vehicles

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION LINKS:

Modern Roundabouts: A Safer Choice (VIDEO)

Kansas Department of Transportation Roundabout FAQ

Roundabouts and Traffic Calming

U.S. Dept. of Transportation Federal Highway Administration Roundabouts

Roundabouts - Proven Safety Countermeasures (U.S.Dept. of Transportation)

IIHS Roundabouts Information 

Next Section: Pedestrian Safety