I recently read an article about the extensive use of roundabouts in Carmel, IN. The article touted the beneficial effects and traffic flow as well as the environmental benefit of cars not idling at stop lights. We're starting to see them used more often here, and I'm wondering what factors you take into consideration on when and where to use them.
Roundabouts are a great alternative to traffic signals, in the right circumstances. Primarily, we look at traffic speeds, the amount of traffic coming from each direction, the number of connected streets and how much traffic turns into those streets. Generally speaking, roundabouts are safer than signalized intersections, as the risk of potentially fatal head-on and T-bone crashes is significantly reduced. They also help slow down and even out traffic flow along a corridor and, as you mention, help reduce idling time. Andrew Gates, MoDOT Communciations
Last week, a Road Crew chatter asked if St. Louis County has any plans to resurface Bowles Avenue, from South Outer Road to Horan. We do not. This stretch of road has a pavement rating of '5' (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being 'perfect.') We're currently focusing our limited financial resources on roads that have ratings of '3' and '4.' David G. Wrone, St. Louis County's Department of Transportation
How is the Heege Road work progressing?
Our contractor had to temporarily suspend work for several weeks in October because of a utility issue, so the project may not be complete until early '22. However, 2021 is still a possibility. David G. Wrone, St. Louis County's Department of Transportation