PennDOT ponders roundabout solution to improve intersections

Someday, drivers might not have to worry about red lights at the intersections of Routes 19 and 97 in Waterford.

[Waterford Taxpaper]

This is not a new idea. I went to a public meeting on this two years ago and they were pushing the idea of a roundabout back then. I don't think it will accomplish what they want it to do because most people in Erie county don't read traffic signs; example: yield signs - people either ignore them or don't know what the word means so a roundabout isn't going to help the problem. Traffic lights are called for because it is the only thing that drivers sort of pay attention to anymore.

[Erie Citizen]

Waterford Taxpaper wrote:

This is not a new idea. I went to a public meeting on this two years ago and they were pushing the idea of a roundabout back then. I don't think it will accomplish what they want it to do because most people in Erie county don't read traffic signs; example: yield signs - people either ignore them or don't know what the word means so a roundabout isn't going to help the problem. Traffic lights are called for because it is the only thing that drivers sort of pay attention to anymore.

How bad are the roundabouts going to be in the winter when they are slushy? Everyone will be going around them sideways?

[Rotarian]

Waterford Taxpaper wrote:

This is not a new idea. I went to a public meeting on this two years ago and they were pushing the idea of a roundabout back then. I don't think it will accomplish what they want it to do because most people in Erie county don't read traffic signs; example: yield signs - people either ignore them or don't know what the word means so a roundabout isn't going to help the problem. Traffic lights are called for because it is the only thing that drivers sort of pay attention to anymore.

You say people don't read signs or obey signs yet you say drivers pay attention to lights. I don't agree with either point.

The only problem is that it is something different and you people here don't like to change even if it's for the better. At roundabouts or rotaries you do not have the violent side impact crashes or head on crashes like you do at this intersection and similar ones.

Roundabouts save lives and should be considered more thoughtfully.

[Rotarian]

Erie Citizen wrote:

<quoted text>
How bad are the roundabouts going to be in the winter when they are slushy? Everyone will be going around them sideways?

I've used roundabouts in New England in winter and they are not a problem.

You must slow down when entering the roundabout and travel between 15 and 25 mph, but, of course, a prudent driver slows down when the road conditions are bad.

[Joel Skrabacz]

Roundabouts are a great idea for Waterford. I live here and the traffic is horrid along route 19. There is to much of it during rush hour and the possibility of accidents is eminent. I lived in Europe and never had problems with roundabouts they can be constructed nicely and planters are often placed in them. I agree with the fellow from pittsburgh we shouldn't be afraid of positive change. I hope in the future our cities can be connected by rail.