Traffic Circles?

[nieuwy-89]

Originally Posted by Dominicwasalreadytaken

How much usable land does it take up compared to an average intersection? Honest question, I don't know. Could you fit four houses? 2? 1? Keep in mind the fact that the road's Right Of Way is significantly larger than the actual road itself. Would the traffic circle really take up much sellable land?

It depends on the size of the traffic circle. For example, a single lane roundabout in a residential area may take up 2-3 times as much space as a small signalized or stop-controlled intersection. However, if a subdivision is initially designed with roundabouts, developers can fit them in without giving up any lots.

Size becomes an issue if you are trying to convert an intersection to a roundabout.

[nieuwy-89]

Originally Posted by ken0042

I'm not saying it's a whole lot bigger, but the arguement that it is cheaper because of no traffic lights in moot, because although it has fewer lights it does take more land.

That's true, but if you look at life cycle costs there are savings:

1. Roundabouts have lower operation/maintenance costs than traffic signals.

2. With less collisions, and lower severity of the collisions that do occur, there are less costs to the public in terms of emergency response, insurance claims, health care, etc.