Vortex Junction: The Next-Gen Roundabout

Roundabouts work great in low traffic volume areas because the number of vehicles in the intersection at one time is low. They eliminate traffic stops like signs or lights and allow traffic to move smoothly. When they’re installed in high traffic areas, roundabouts can become a nightmare. The trouble with roundabouts, especially big ones, is drivers are always jockeying for position along the outside lane since there are always vehicles entering into, in the intersection and attempting to exit along the outer diameter. This is a problem the Vortex Junction solves.

I don’t know if this is the answer, but it’s an interesting idea.

Traffic circles in and around DC, especially DuPont, should have been mentioned in Dante’s Inferno. High volume, poor signage, modifications that render them even more problematic (through lanes on the diameter and traffic lights) and inconsistent right-of-way protocols (some places people in the circle have the right-of-way, for others it’s those entering the circle. WTF?)

I avoid DuPont circle like it’s made of toxic broccoli.