Buckeye Reporter

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has released data highlighting the effectiveness of roundabouts in improving intersection safety across the state. According to ODOT's analysis, single-lane roundabouts have reduced injury crashes by 69%, while multi-lane roundabouts have seen a 25% decrease.

"Safety is the driving force behind every decision we make, and the results are clear, roundabouts are very effective at reducing crashes and saving lives," said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn. She emphasized ODOT's commitment to supporting local, county, and state partners with funding for roundabout projects.

In July, Governor Mike DeWine announced an additional $137 million for traffic safety projects statewide, with 25 of these projects involving the installation of roundabouts.

Clark County serves as a notable example of success with roundabouts. The intersection of State Route 41 and State Route 235 had experienced serious crashes despite previous countermeasures like rumble strips and traffic signals. Since a roundabout was installed in 2014, there have been no fatal crashes. The only serious injury crash occurred in 2023 due to a motorcycle incident involving drug impairment and lack of proper licensing.

Other examples from around Ohio include:

- Marion County: Before a roundabout was built at SR 98 & SR 529, nearly 60% of crashes resulted in injuries. Since its opening in 2022, there have been no injury-related crashes.

- Richland County: The E. Cook Rd / Illinois Ave & Mansfield-Lucas Rd intersection saw a reduction in average yearly crashes by 40% after a roundabout opened in August 2022.

- Medina County: At SR 94 & Granger Road (Granger Township), average yearly crashes decreased by 57% since the completion of a roundabout in 2018.

- Seneca County: After constructing a roundabout at US 224 & SR 587 in 2022, no crashes have been reported.

- Gallia County: The SR 160/554 intersection now averages two non-injury crashes per year since its roundabout opened in 2021.

For more information on navigating and understanding the benefits of roundabouts, visit ODOT’s website at transportation.ohio.gov/roundabouts.

Information from this article can be found here.