Roundabouts
Circular Intersections Around a Central Island
A roundabout is a circular intersection, with or without traffic signals, where all traffic moves counterclockwise around a central island. Traffic entering the roundabout slows down and yields the right-of-way to pedestrians and traffic already inside the circle. Roundabouts may have one or more circulation lanes that allow for right turns to be channelized to bypass the circulating lanes. Learn more about how to navigate roundabouts on the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Innovative Intersections and Interchanges page and by viewing the roundabout video and roundabout flyer (PDF). Additionally, view the Federal Highway Administration's roundabout page.
Why Use Roundabouts?
Roundabouts have been shown to reduce fatal and injury crashes by 75%. They also save at least $5,000 per year in electricity and maintenance costs as compared to traffic signals. Reducing intersection delay and decreasing commute times creates greater efficiency and reducing wait times means reduced fuel consumption and air pollution. Another added benefit to a roundabout is that they promote lower vehicle speeds, giving drivers more time to react.
Navigating Roundabouts
When approaching the roundabout, slow down and yield the right-of-way to pedestrians, bicyclists and traffic already in the roundabout. Your entry point will be controlled by a stop or yield sign or traffic signal. When the way is clear, you may enter the roundabout.
Use Turn Signals
While inside the circle, stay in your lane until you are ready to exit. Use your vehicle’s right turn signal to let drivers around you know what you want to do.
Expect Blind Spots
Expect vehicles to be in blind spots, so do not change lanes or take an exit before checking for vehicles that may be continuing through the circle in the lane next to you or behind you.
Multi-Lane Roundabouts
For multi-lane roundabouts, look for directional signs and pavement markings and choose your lane prior to entering the roundabout. View a video about navigating a multi-lane roundabout.
Roundabout Projects
- Arch Road/Arboretum Parkway
- Centralia Road/Old Wrexham Road Intersection Improvements
- Genito Road/Otterdale Road
- Lakeview Road/Branders Bridge Road
- Matoaca Road/Hickory Road
- Otterdale Road at Old Hundred Road Intersection Improvement
- Winterpock Road/McEnnally Drive/Ashbrook Parkway
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Chessa Walker
Interim Director
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Transportation
Physical Address
9800 Government Center Parkway
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Mailing Address
Chesterfield Transportation Department
P.O. Box 40
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Phone 804-748-1037Fax 804-748-8516
Hours
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.