The City of Charlotte completed its first roundabout in 2001 at the intersection of 9th and Davidson Streets in the First Ward neighborhood.

A roundabout is an intersection design that uses a circular island rather than traffic signals or stop signs. This type of design encourages lower speeds as vehicles drive through the intersection.

The benefits of using a roundabout include:

• Lower vehicle speeds
• Fewer and less severe accidents
• Increased pedestrian safety

Roundabout Rules:

• Right in, Right out - Drivers enter and exit a roundabout by turning right. Once in a roundabout, all traffic travels in a counter-clockwise direction
• Roundabout has Right-of-Way - Drivers within the roundabout have the right-of-way
• Yield on Entry - Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to traffic until a safe opening is available

Roundabout Facts:

• Roundabouts have no traffic signals to fail or maintain;
• Drivers cannot "run the roundabout" like they can "run a red light!"
• Roundabouts reduce the chance and severity of accidents
• Roundabouts are pedestrian friendly and enhance the quality of life in surrounding neighborhoods
• They provide opportunity for beautification - landscaping in the center island will complement the surrounding area