Re: Replace lights with roundabouts, (Letters, Nov. 20)
I fully agree with the letter writer that Saanich should endeavour to replace lights with roundabouts wherever possible.
Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the U.S. indicate that roundabouts offer a 90-per-cent decrease in fatality collisions, as well as a 40-per-cent decrease in pedestrian collisions.
As someone who walks to and from the bus on work days, I would be in favour of the increased pedestrian safety offered by roundabouts; most of the close calls I’ve had are from people rushing at intersections.
Washington State’s Department of Transportation notes that roundabouts eliminate speeding, thanks to their circular shape.
The financial (reduced insurance costs from fewer accidents), environmental (less idling) and safety (fewer accidents) benefits of roundabouts make them a good choice.
Many other international jurisdictions have used them widely with success. We should follow their example.
Chelsea Garside
Saanich