Roundabouts
According to FDOT, not only do roundabouts decrease traffic delays by about 20%, but they also keep drivers, pedestrians and bicyclists safer. In fact, roundabouts reduce fatalities and serious injuries by 78% to 82%.
A roundabout accommodates vehicles of all sizes. Its central island allows the back wheels of large vehicles, like semi-trucks, to ride up on the island to complete the turn. It also features splitter islands, which are designed to slow and direct traffic approaching the intersection and provide a safe place for pedestrians to cross traffic.
The City of Dunedin partnered with FDOT to transform Skinner Boulevard to include two single-lane roundabouts at Douglas Avenue and Highland Avenue. While lanes are currently open, construction is expected to be fully completed by Spring 2026.
Here are some best practices when it comes to utilizing roundabouts, courtesy of FDOT:
Driving
- Determine which way you want to go in advance of the roundabout
- Keep right at the splitter island and slow to 10-15 mph
- Watch for bicyclists and allow them to merge into the entry lane
- Watch for pedestrians crossing the entry roadway and yield right-of-way
- Yield right-of-way to vehicles within the circulatory roadway
- Turn right onto the circulatory roadway when it is safe to do so
- When you approach your street, use your right-turn signal and exit the roundabout
- Watch for pedestrians crossing the exit roadway and yield right-of-way
Biking
- Merge with traffic on the entry lane or use the ramp to the sidewalk
- If riding with traffic, signal your intended path
- If using the sidewalks, yield right-of-way to pedestrians and walk your bicycle at crosswalks
Walking
- Stay on the walkways and cross at designated crosswalks
- Do not enter the central island
- Watch for motorists and bicyclists
- Cross to the splitter island and stop there if traffic requires
For more tips and information, click here.