The Attention-Getting Device

For the past few weeks I’ve been pouring over the documents and press releases connected with the City plan to build a traffic circle -- aka a roundabout -- at the intersection of Richland Ave. and State Route 682. The entire Richland/682 proposal is a major one, with road improvements that will run from Dairy Lane, where a traffic light is set to be installed, to the intersection between the Convo and Peden Stadium. More than half of a 3 million Ohio Department of Transportation grant will go towards repairing the deck of the Richland Bridge, but it’s the roundabout that has generated the most discussion. Those interested can review 3D simulations of the two main intersection choices at http://www.ci.athens.oh.us/streets/richland.html

This post and my next one will take a look at the pros and cons of the roundabout proposal from a motorist and traffic safety perspective, then from a pedestrian angle, with something on funding thrown in for good measure.

Traffic safety has been the motivating force behind the project. A 2004 ODOT study ranked the Richland/682 intersection as the 78th most dangerous in the state. The problem is mainly that the intersection is not only heavily traveled but mixes high speed traffic on 682 with low-speed travelers on Richland. The tendency is for the 682 drivers to continue through the traffic signal, setting up the conditions for broadside collisions and pedestrian accidents. I admit to having spaced out and nearly run a red myself on one occasion coming down 682, and I consider myself at least a near-average driver, so the problem may be common.

After reading up on the options, I’m inclined to agree with Athens Streets Director Andy Stone: a roundabout looks like the most elegant long term solution.
There’s no way for us drivers to “run” a shrub-filled center median the way we can a traffic light, and hence the possibility of high-speed accidents should be greatly reduced. During normal traffic flow, drivers are able to get through a roundabout more rapidly than they would a traditional intersection, and at peak traffic times, such as sporting events, a police officer could direct traffic, since many are already in the area for security reasons.

The protest has been made that American drivers are unfamiliar with the concept of roundabouts and that having one at the intersection will cause confusion and an increase in fender benders. This may be true, but I give our drivers credit for more smarts than some may: with the proper signs posted most should learn quickly. The fact that negotiating a roundabout requires both hands on the wheel might even prompt a few clueless motorists to actually (gasp) put away their cell phones for once!

All of the above was written several days ago, but I just saw the aftermath of a tragic high-speed accident that underscores the need for something to be done about the intersection. As I was driving in on 682 yesterday I came upon two fire trucks and a sedan with its entire front end bashed in. An article in today’s Messenger lists both drivers as injured and say that police are seeking witnesses to the moment of the crash, since no one apparently stopped to investigate -- a sad testament to our self-absorbed state in these times. My thoughts, prayers and hopes for full recovery go out to the drivers and their families.