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 four
roundabouts, including a double
roundabout on the west side of US-23
& Lee Road, one single roundabout
on the east side of US-23 & Lee
Road, one at Kensington & Jacoby
Roads and one at Third & Main in
the City of Brighton. Additional
possible roundabout locations are under
study.
Introduction to
Roundabouts