More Roundabouts Please

More roundabouts, please

One of the best improvements to my commute came after the installation of a roundabout on State Route 902 between Medical Lake and Interstate 90. Previously, crossing proved risky or even frustrating waiting to cross both lanes safely.

Today the stream of traffic must slow down a bit and might have to yield at times, but the alternative could be worse: waiting for signal lights. To the unfamiliar roundabout benefits are winning communities the world over. Roundabouts actually move traffic through intersections more quickly, and with less congestion on approaching roads according to the US Department of Transportation.

Roundabouts actually promote a continuous flow of traffic thereby reducing vehicle emissions. Even better than that, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation roundabouts actually improve safety. Testing revealed roundabouts reduced injury collisions by 75 percent and an even more staggering 90% reduction in fatal collisions. Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety of intersections found that roundabouts also contributed to an 89 percent reduction in delays and 56 percent reduction in vehicle stops. That also equals less pollutants from stop and go traffic. Yes, more roundabouts please.

Sean McCormick

Ford, WA