Traffic Circles
Traffic circles are raised islands, placed in intersections, around which traffic circulates.
Application:
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Calming intersections, especially within neighborhoods where large vehicle traffic is not a major concern, but speeds, volumes and safety are problems.
Advantages:
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Traffic circles are very effective in moderating speeds and improving safety.
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Can have positive aesthetic value.
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Can calm two streets at once.
Disadvantages:
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Difficult for large vehicles (such as fire trucks) to circumnavigate.
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Must be designed so that the circulating lane does not encroach on the crosswalks.
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May require the elimination of some on-street parking.
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Landscaping must be maintained, either by the residents or by the municipality.
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Expensive to install.
Cost Estimate:
$30,000 - $50,000