Which City Has the Most Roundabouts?

Milton Keynes in the United Kingdom.This planned city, developed in the 1960s, is known for its extensive network of roundabouts, boasting over 130 roundabouts within its area.

The Milton Keynes city's planners recognized the potential of roundabouts to reduce congestion and improve safety. By incorporating numerous roundabouts into the road network, they aimed to create a fluid transportation system that minimizes delays.

1. They lead to reduced head on and T-bone collisions:

Because of they are a radius design, roundabouts significantly lower the number of head on collisions and T-bone accidents compared to traditional intersections. The design encourages slower speeds and fewer conflict points, making them safer for all road users.

2. They Improve Traffic Flow:

Roundabouts facilitate continuous traffic movement, reducing the need for stops and starts. This efficiency is especially beneficial during peak traffic times, helping to alleviate congestion.

3. They reduce noise:

This is a residual benefit of the improved traffic flow. If you've ever lived near a 3-way stop or a 4-way stop intersection controlled by stop signs you will understand why a continuous flow of traffic leads to lower road noise.

While Milton Keynes leads in roundabout numbers, other cities also have a significant presence of roundabouts. Swindon, also in the UK, is famously known for its “Magic Roundabout,” which features multiple mini-roundabouts within a larger roundabout structure. In the U.S., Lakewood, Colorado, is recognized for its numerous roundabouts, which have been implemented to improve traffic flow and safety.

Milton Keynes holds the title for the city with the most roundabouts, reflecting the city's commitment to effective traffic management. The benefits of roundabouts, including reduced accidents and improved traffic flow, have made them a popular choice for urban planners worldwide. As cities continue to grow and evolve, the implementation of roundabouts will likely play a crucial role in enhancing road safety and efficiency.