An analytical review of statewide roundabout programs and policies

Abstract

As the modern roundabout continues to grow in popularity within the United States, more states are considering or implementing statewide roundabout programs and policies. To assist states with the implementation of statewide roundabout programs and policies, an analytical review of statewide roundabout programs and policies was conducted through an examination of literature, interviews, and data pertaining to the construction of roundabouts. The roundabout policy type for each state and the District of Columbia was located, and assigned to a roundabout policy type based on the strength of the identified policy type. In addition, a series of per capita analyses of the statewide roundabout policies was performed, as was a qualitative SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. The results of the analysis show that the strength of a statewide roundabout policy is correlated to the number of roundabouts in a state, and states should consider implementing or strengthening their policies if they seek to expand the use of roundabouts in their jurisdiction. In addition, the perception of roundabouts, both by the general public and internal to the state DOTs, also continues to hinder the further implementation of roundabouts, and education should be utilized to minimize these obstacles. Furthermore, states should utilize identified successful implementation procedures, and should be cognizant of reasons for implementation failure, as they pursue the further use of roundabouts by their agency.