What is a roundabout?

A roundabout is a circular intersection in which traffic flows in one continuous counterclockwise direction around the central island until the desired road is reached. Vehicles entering the roundabout must yield to traffic circulating within the roundabout. The circular intersection in The Parkway is not a true roundabout; it is considered a traffic calming device, because it does not have full access to and from all intersection points.

Why are we considering roundabouts? 

Roundabouts offer some advantages that stop-sign controlled intersections don’t. The City’s evaluation of the Duportail Street corridor suggests that a roundabout’s features fit well with the character of the neighborhood and the functionality of Duportail Street. The benefits are to vehicle speed of travel, safety, and pedestrian safety. The current proposal is to select between a two-way stop controlled intersection and a roundabout. A traffic signal is not being considered because the conditions allowing a traffic signal will not be met on Duportail Street. 

Why are roundabouts considered safer?

The Washington State Department of Transportation lists the following reasons roundabouts decrease the likelihood of a collision:

• Low travel speeds – By design, traffic is forced to slow their speed of travel, resulting in less collisions and minor accidents when one does occur.
• No light to beat – Because traffic is continuously flowing, drivers are less likely to accelerate to ‘beat the light’ like they would in a traditional intersection.
• One-way travel – The curved road and one-way traffic eliminate the possibility of head-on collisions.

How fast should a vehicle go in a roundabout?

Roundabouts are designed for a travel speed of 15 – 20 miles per hour.

Does Richland currently have any roundabouts?

Yes, Richland has several roundabouts throughout the city.

Do roundabouts cause more crashes?

No, statistics show that roundabouts decrease the overall amount of crashes by 40% and reduce injury crashes by 75% at intersections where stop signs or signals were previously used. Pedestrian collisions are also reduced by 40%.

Will the roundabout be big enough for large trucks?

The roundabout will be designed to accommodate delivery trucks, buses, and emergency vehicles. A slightly elevated “truck apron” will be installed in the center to provide an area for larger vehicles to track when necessary.

How do you drive in a roundabout?

Entering traffic yields to vehicles in the roundabout, the waiting vehicle enters the roundabout in a counterclockwise direction, and the vehicle exits the roundabout, using their turn signal, at the desired road. All traffic is expected to yield to pedestrians at the designated cross walks.

How many lanes would the proposed roundabout have?

The proposed roundabout would have one lane, similar to the more residential neighborhoods in Kennewick.

Where can I find more information on roundabouts?

The Washington State Department of Transportation has some excellent information on roundabouts, including videos. This information can be found at:http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Safety/roundabouts/BasicFacts.htm