OAKLAND COUNTY (WWJ) -- Roundabouts are definitely a point of contention for many drivers, but whether you like them or not, get ready to see more of them in Oakland County.
The Road Commission for Oakland County is planning to spend $1.7 million to install a pair of roundabouts along Elizabeth Lake Road with construction beginning in June.
Despite being a bit more complex than a traditional straight-thru intersection, roundabouts are statistically safer for drivers and pedestrians.
"The data is very clear that they are a much safer form of intersection in many cases than a signalized intersection," said Craig Bryson with the Oakland County Road Commission. "They improve traffic flow and allow more cars to move more quickly through an intersection with far fewer serious injury crashes and fatalities."
Additionally, Bryson said the cost of installing a roundabout and its upkeep isn't any higher than a traditional intersection.
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"In many cases, the roundabout is about the same price as the alternative more traditional intersection, so it's not really an added cost," said Bryson.
Furthermore, constructing roundabouts come with additional funding that isn't available when constructing a signalized intersection.
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