Roundabouts

Within the last 30 years, the roundabout has become an acceptable alternative to traditional intersections (like traffic signals and stop signs). The roundabout intersection provides several benefits when considering intersection improvements. For example, an existing intersection has a high accident rate but is close to a traffic signal or stop-controlled intersection. A roundabout can provide safety improvements by channeling traffic around the central island, and using yield signs to help reduce vehicle wait time. Roundabouts also provide a traffic calming effect along a roadway corridor and aesthetic benefits with landscaping at the island and around the intersection.
The City of Weatherford has recently been introduced to the roundabouts. The intersection of Charles Street and Mockingbird Lane has been selected to place a modern roundabout. The future roundabout will be a single lane roundabout with landscaping improvements. A concept plan of the future roundabout is attached. You are welcome to contact the Public Works Department at 817-598-4296 with further questions about roundabouts.

ADVANTAGES
​Safety – Studies indicate that collisions occur less frequently than at signalized or stop controlled intersections. Roundabouts reduce potential conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians. Slower speeds are required to navigate the roundabout.
​Reduced Delay – Typically, drivers do not need to actually stop at a roundabout. They merely adjust their speed to take advantage of approaching gaps in traffic, which is more efficient than a multi-phased traffic signal.
​Environment – Roundabouts generally operate with fewer delays, resulting in less air pollution and lower fuel consumption.
​Capacity – A roundabout can accommodate more vehicles than some signalized or stop controlled intersections.
Improved Neighborhood Appearance – The roundabout's central island and splitter islands are landscaped to add greenery to the streetscape. Roundabouts can also add some variation to streets.

TIPS ON DRIVING A ROUNDABOUT
  • Yield to traffic from the left and travel right.
  • ​Signal right when exiting the roundabout.
  • ​Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks when entering and exiting, and STOP for pedestrians who are in the crosswalk – it is the law!
  • ​Keep moving once in the roundabout.
  • ​Remember: A missed exit can be reached by going around again!
Roundabout Education Resources:
Charles & Mockingbird Lane Concept Plan 
College Park & Martin Drive Concept Plan
College Park & Martin Drive 3D Video
 ​Frequently Asked Questions 
​F.H.W.A Roundabouts - An Informational Guide
F.H.W.A. Roundabouts – Proven Safety Solutions Guide
​F.H.W.A. You Tube Video – Modern Roundabouts – A Safer Choice

Roundabout Video Links:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv8EkfSMn5g&t=4s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0nuuZu0V4Y

https://www.youtube.com/user/ourston/videos

roundabout pic