15/07/2025
I've been an advocate of roundabouts for years. One of my major disappointments was not being able to talk council into a roundabout at Chambersburg and Bellefontaine.
Carmel, Indiana has taken a bold and forward-thinking approach to urban planning by replacing almost all of its traffic lights with roundabouts—over 120 since 1996. This move has had a dramatic impact on road safety, leading to an estimated 40% drop in overall accidents and an astounding 90% reduction in fatal crashes. By removing stop-and-go signals and encouraging continuous movement, roundabouts have proven to be not only safer but more efficient.
Beyond improving safety, the benefits extend into cost savings and environmental impact. Each roundabout saves the city an average of $180,000 in long-term maintenance compared to traditional intersections. They also cut down on fuel consumption—saving around 24,000 gallons per roundabout annually—thanks to reduced idling and smoother traffic flow. Fewer stops mean fewer emissions, making Carmel’s streets cleaner and more sustainable.
This real-world success story shows how smart infrastructure can make a lasting difference—saving lives, lowering costs, and reducing our environmental footprint. Sometimes the simplest solutions, like going in circles, can move us all forward.
