What is a roundabout? A modern roundabout is a circular intersection with design features that promote safe and efficient traffic flow. Vehicles travel counterclockwise around a raised center island, with entering traffic yielding the right of way to circulating traffic. Slow speeds are maintained as vehicles must negotiate the around the island and the exit curves. The slow speeds aid in smooth movement of vehicles into, around and out of the roundabout, and help promote safety.

Many road authorities United States and Europe have built roundabouts. Approximately 46 have been built in Minnesota with many more planned or under construction. Agencies that have used roundabouts include Minnesota Department of Transportation, Grand Rapids, Monticello, Richfield, Rochester, Minneapolis, and many others.