Roundabouts
Transportation and Public Works is now Sonoma Public Infrastructure - Website updates coming soon!
What is a Roundabout?
A roundabout is a type of circular intersection in which traffic can flow almost continuously in one direction around a central island. If multiple vehicles are suing the roundabout, then incoming vehicles yield to vehicles already in the roundabout.Benefits
- Reduction of traffic conflicts (for example, left turns) that are frequent causes of crashes at traditional intersections
- Facilitation of traffic flow - allowing more cars to pass at any given time than a traditional intersection
- Reduction of fuel consumption, as most vehicles are not required to stop
For these reasons, roundabouts are gradually being adopted into communities across the US, including Sonoma County.
Video: Aerial footage of Arnold Drive at Agua Caliente Road Roundabout
Video: Modern Roundabouts (Federal Highways Administration)
Read More: Federal Highway Administration > Roundabouts
Arnold Drive at Agua Caliente Road
The Sonoma County Department of Transportation & Public Works constructed its first roundabout at the intersection of Arnold Drive and Agua Caliente Road in 2013.