The roundabout being only one lane could cause traffic congestion, as currently Hamakua is two lanes. A traffic expert would need to address that specific concern. Aside from that, I like the idea. I think it would be good. – Mark Fergusson, Down to Earth CEO.
Aloha Mark and Frank,
Thanks for your post.
These charts reveal that automobile speeds of about 20 mph are representative of the speeds at which the rate of pedestrian injuries are meaningfully decreased. This is central to the safety provided by roundabouts.
If cars were moving at those safer speeds, like the posted 25 mph speeds along Hamakua, we wouldn’t need to do anything. But that’s not going to happen without some kind of intervention. The key feature of roundabouts is they do consistently keep cars flowing, but simultaneously force drivers to maintain speeds consistent with these safer pedestrian outcomes. Roundabouts also avoid future installation of additional stop signs or signals, which no one wants. Stop signs and signals are when you surely would experience congestion.
Regarding traffic experts this site was put up by traffic engineers in support of roundabouts for their various stated reasons. It speaks quite directly to your concern Mark.
A traffic study is in the works for our Project as well. Currently it looks as if it will be done by a civil engineer who also is credentialed as a traffic engineer with one of Honolulu’s older engineering firms.
RCGratz
The Hamakua Group.