Roundabouts reduce travel time by allowing traffic in all directions to flow continuously. Motorists travel in a counterclockwise direction around the circle and proceed in their intended direction without stopping. Studies show a significant time savings because motorists do not have to wait to make left-turns. Roundabouts provide improved safety for all modes of travel. One benefit is an overall reduction in vehicle speed while still accommodating all traffic movements. Also, the number of vehicle-to-vehicle conflict points decreases from 32 to eight. Head-on and high-speed collisions are virtually eliminated.

Studies also show a reduction in the occurrence and severity of pedestrian and vehicle conflicts. Due to the roundabout design, pedestrians only cross one direction of traffic at a time with a roundabout. Modern Roundabouts are designed to be safer for pedestrians and bicyclists than traditional intersections. Vehicles are moving at a slower rate of speed in roundabouts – typically between 15 and 20 mph. Crosswalks also are set further back from traffic, allowing drivers more time to react to pedestrians and bicyclists before merging into or out of the roundabout. Triangular islands between lanes of traffic give pedestrians a safe place to wait if they choose to cross only one direction of traffic at a time. The center of a roundabout is used for decorative features, which could include landscaping. To drive a modern roundabout, please visit the Hansen Street/Veronica S. Shoemaker Boulevard intersection.