Introduction to Roundabouts

What is a Modern Roundabout?

Simply stated, a modern roundabout is a transportation management tool that moves traffic through an intersection without the aid of traffic signals. More specifically, a modern roundabout is an intersection with one-way circulation around a central island where entering traffic must yield the right-of-way to the traffic circulating within the roundabout.

A modern roundabout should not be confused with traffic rotaries or circles, which are much larger, with higher speeds and multiple lanes for entering and exiting. As traffic volumes increase, collisions and traffic jams can occur because vehicles are not required to yield to traffic before entering.

Traffic engineers recognized the deficiencies associated with traffic rotaries and circles, and incorporated slower speeds and "yield on entry" into modern roundabouts.

Why is the County building Roundabouts?

Engineering analysis have determined that roundabouts can perform more effectively than traditional signals at many intersections.

Although roundabouts are not appropriate for all intersections, they do provide our community with another tool to address traffic congestion and to further enhance the safety of our roadways.

How many Roundabouts will the County build?

To date, Livingston County has seven roundabouts, including three multi-lane roundabouts on Lee Road at US-23 and single lane roundabouts at the intersections of Kensington and Jacoby (Brighton Township), Winans Lake and Hamburg Roads (Hamburg Township), Hartland Road at the Meijer's driveway (Hartland Township), and Main Street and Third Street (City of Brighton).