Roundabout Warrants: Proposed Framework for Future Development

Abstract

The available research in the area of roundabout intersections was surveyed with focus primarily on concerns about their installation. The Federal Highway Administration’s 2000 publication, Roundabouts: An Informational Guide, examines what should be done after the decision has been made to install a roundabout. This guide, while a good reference, does not provide specific decision-making criteria, the main focus of this proposed framework. The areas of focus are not to be considered exhaustive or complete but as suggested criteria, as the use of warrants seeks to imply. The areas covered in depth by these criteria are pedestrian volume, horizontal alignment, vertical alignment, and unbalanced flow volumes. In addition, safety and relevant local concerns should be focused on in the overall decision-making process.