How the Dog Bone Roundabout Works and Its Benefits

The Dog Bone Roundabout is a traffic circle that's designed to improve traffic flow and safety. It's a unique intersection that's becoming increasingly popular in urban areas.

The Dog Bone Roundabout gets its name from its distinctive shape, which resembles a dog bone. This shape allows traffic to flow smoothly in both directions, reducing congestion and the need for traffic lights.

One of the key benefits of the Dog Bone Roundabout is that it reduces the risk of accidents. By eliminating traffic lights and allowing drivers to yield to traffic already in the circle, the roundabout creates a safe and predictable environment for all road users.

In a typical Dog Bone Roundabout, traffic flows in a counterclockwise direction. This helps to reduce conflicts between drivers and pedestrians, making it a safer option for everyone.

Dog bone roundabouts can be confusing for drivers, especially those who are not familiar with them.

They often require drivers to make three or more turns to navigate through the intersection.

This can lead to frustration and accidents, especially during peak traffic hours.

Studies have shown that drivers are more likely to make mistakes when navigating complex intersections like dog bone roundabouts.

In one study, 75% of drivers reported feeling confused or disoriented when using a dog bone roundabout for the first time.

The design of dog bone roundabouts can also lead to safety issues, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists.

In fact, a study found that dog bone roundabouts have a higher rate of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts compared to traditional intersections.

Check this out: What to Feed Dogs When You Run Out of Food

In the 1980s, alternatives to traditional traffic signals started being evaluated for the intersection.

A circular roundabout was initially chosen in 2005 due to its anticipated safety and operational benefits.

However, by 2008, the dogbone-shaped roundabout emerged as the best alternative, as it would minimize property and existing infrastructure impacts, and cut the project's cost by more than half.

Kittelson worked closely with Ada County Highway District staff to promote the benefits of the dogbone roundabout to local citizens, neighborhoods, and school administration staff.

Kittelson developed the preliminary design for the roundabout, including provisions for future expansion if necessary.

The construction plans package included key pedestrian and bicycle treatments to address safety concerns.

The dogbone roundabout was constructed in summer of 2016.

It's been a game-changer for traffic flow, reducing long lines of cars to just a few at a time.