Traffic Roundabout
The idea of a traffic roundabout at Waianuenue and Kamehameha Avenues has been kicked around for years. There is more interest at the DOT lately and this simple design may be the best solution for the issues at this Gateway intersection, such as:
- No pedestrian access to shoreline area
- Limited radius for large trucks during storm closures of Bayfront Hwy
- Constant maintenance expense for salt damaged traffic light fixtures
Because roundabouts are unfamiliar to most drivers, getting used to the idea takes time: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS 2001) surveyed drivers before and after the construction of roundabouts in their areas. Before construction, 31% of drivers were in favor of the roundabout and 41% were strongly opposed. A few months after the construction was completed, 63% of drivers were in favor of the roundabout and only 15% strongly opposed the roundabout. Here are three sources for your research:
- Toolbox to Evaluate the Impacts of Roundabouts on a Corridor or Roadway Network
- RoundaboutsUSA
- Planning-Level Guidelines for Modern Roundabouts
NEW DRAWINGS AND A VIDEO HAVE BEEN ADDED! (23-Sep-12)
For a bigger picture of the plan, please visit:
http://hilobigisland.com/a-traffic-roundabout-for-downtown-hilo/
EDH 2025 Primary Focus Area: Managing Growth
June 25, 2012 (last changed September 24, 2012)
Top Comments
This is a great idea, and would partcularly improve conditions in the area for bicyclists and pedestrians, particularly if Kaipalaoa Landing is developed. Right now, the bayfront highway intersection is a no-man’s-land for anybody not in a car. And this is indeed a gateway, the first thing you encounter upon entering Hilo from the Wailuku River bridge, and a roundabout with a landscaped center would really let everyone know they have arrived.
I think this is a great idea. We need more roundabouts on the east side. If drivers see the success of this one, they will be open to converting other intersections.
WONDERFUL! I have seen and used roundabouts on the Mainland and in other countries. A well-designed roundabout is safe, traffic-calming, attractive, and improves traffic flow. YES!
Next, crossing circles? Please? 
Modern roundabouts are the safest form of intersection in the world. Search IIHS for FAQs and safety facts.
If you want to see the difference between a traffic circle, a rotary (UK roundabout) and a modern roundabout, search http://www.k-state.edu to see pictures. The FHWA has a video about modern roundabouts that is mostly accurate (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhHzly_6lWM ).
Aloha. I have replaced the drawings at http://hilobigisland.com/a-traffic-roundabout-for-downtown-hilo with improved views showing the roundabout at Ponahawai in more detail. Click on the drawing, or the link below the drawing, for a PDF version you can download and print for yourself.
I also added a video produced by the Maui County DPW, “How To Drive In A Roundabout.” It demonstrates the simplicity of negotiating traffic in a roundabout, including integrating bicycle and pedestrian traffic.
The existing Waianuenue/Kamehameha intersection is clumsy at best. A Traffic Roundabout is a simple and elegant solution.
Please check ithe drawings and video out and encourage your friends and neighbors to “like” this project! Mahalo!
This is a great idea, and would partcularly improve conditions in the area for bicyclists and pedestrians, particularly if Kaipalaoa Landing is developed. Right now, the bayfront highway intersection is a no-man’s-land for anybody not in a car. And this is indeed a gateway, the first thing you encounter upon entering Hilo from the Wailuku River bridge, and a roundabout with a landscaped center would really let everyone know they have arrived.
check this out:
http://hilobigisland.com/a-traffic-roundabout-for-downtown-hilo/
According to HRS 0291-1
“Bicycle Route” means any highway that is designated to be shared by bicycles and pedestrians or motor vehicles, or both.
“Bicycle lane” means that portion of any highway which has been set aside for the preferential or exclusive use of bicycles.
If these things are outlined in the HRS, let’s help the state and county to enforce and encourage them by adding SHARROWS!
@Stan: The crosswalk to Kaipalaoa is already drawn on the illustration, but it is not easy to see. There are regular-type ped-crossings at each entry/exit to the roundabout (orange stripey things on the illustration).
Not to mention, with the closure of the Beltway between Ponahawai and Pauahi, there is plenty new access to the Bay.
I think this is a great idea. We need more roundabouts on the east side. If drivers see the success of this one, they will be open to converting other intersections.
I’ve seen roundabouts in Europe and they work well. Where would you put the crosswalk to Kaipalaoa. Could you draw it in your sketch? Great idea.
WONDERFUL! I have seen and used roundabouts on the Mainland and in other countries. A well-designed roundabout is safe, traffic-calming, attractive, and improves traffic flow. YES!
Next, crossing circles? Please?
Modern roundabouts are the safest form of intersection in the world. Search IIHS for FAQs and safety facts.
If you want to see the difference between a traffic circle, a rotary (UK roundabout) and a modern roundabout, search http://www.k-state.edu to see pictures. The FHWA has a video about modern roundabouts that is mostly accurate (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhHzly_6lWM ).
I love this entry, and Chris’ input of the fuller complete concept! I’m in favor… roundabouts improve acces to all sides for all travelers…
This idea is a part of a larger plan that would see the Beltway Hwy turn mauka after the Bandstand and connect to Ponahawai Street and Kamehameha Ave with another roundabout. This would allow the closure of Bayfront Hwy from the Bandstand to Pauahi Street and open up shoreline access to HIlo Bay for everyone.