Going in circles

Traffic circles were a feature at intersections of major, multi-lane roads in the Philadelphia and southern New Jersey area in the 1940s through the early 1960. When learning to drive, knowing how to navigate these circles was an essential skill.

As traffic volumes increased and trucks became larger, the problems of these circles were becoming evident and steps were taken to correct the problems; none worked. There were “metering” traffic signals installed up to one-quarter before the circle; traffic lights installed closer to the circle; partial drive-through lanes and, ultimately, over/underpasses completely eliminating the circles. Few, if any still exist on those major roads, none in their original configuration.

It seems the lessons learned from previously installed and removed circles are ignored or unknown to those promoting their use in Washington and Idaho. It appears we are allowing history to repeat itself.

John McTear

Coeur d’Alene