Roundabouts safe, efficient

Should roundabouts be installed? Should there be one at the intersection of Iowa Highway 1 and U.S. 30? Having driven hundreds of kilometers in New Zealand, where roundabouts prevail, I find they have a great advantage as compared to our standard intersections with their signals or four-way stop signs.

Roundabouts provide for round-the-clock freedom of flowage. There is no reliance upon signal lights with their added expense of installation and maintenance and their required electricity.

The chief disadvantage: Roundabouts require more space, but not much.

Accidents in New Zealand roundabouts are rare. They have proved their efficiency and their safety factors are well established. Note: In that nation, there is one car for every two people. The standard of living is very high, higher than ours, and the love of the auto prevails, just as in Iowa.

Bill Jamison

Cedar Rapids