There will undoubtedly be resistance, but history suggests in time we'll come around.
That has typically been the case with roundabouts, one of which is being considered for the intersection of Ladner Trunk Road and Arthur Drive. The idea of replacing signal lights at a major corner with a roundabout seems like a radical move, particularly in these parts, but it would follow a growing trend throughout this country and most places around the globe.
There are many valid reasons why roundabouts are gaining popularity and one slightly less scientific one that prevents even greater use of these low-tech traffic mechanisms.
Perhaps the biggest selling point is the fact drivers have to slow down, but not come to a complete stop, when they get to them. Given the delays routinely encountered at the intersection in question, thanks in part to a pair of advance left turn signals, the idea of rolling through in far less time is appealing.
Not having to idle while waiting for the light also means a reduction in noise, air pollution and fuel consumption, making roundabouts a greener choice.
Another benefit is because vehicles are moving at a slower rate of speed, and all in the same direction as they make their way around the circle, the most dangerous kinds of accidents, the head-ons and T-bones that result in the greatest carnage, simply disappear.
With everything they've got going for them, you'd think politicians and traffic engineers would be falling over themselves to convert signalized intersections into roundabouts, yet, for the most part, that hasn't been the case.
We're seeing more and more of them to be sure, but they're still foreign enough to cause drivers to be a little anxious and make navigating them in the proper fashion a challenge. And therein lies the problem: They might well be a faster, safer and more environmentally friendly way of moving traffic, but if drivers are apprehensive, then so too are political leaders.
Whether a roundabout ever materializes at the intersection of Trunk Road and Arthur Drive remains to be seen, but Delta council and civic staff deserve marks for their willingness to even consider the possibility.
They likely face an uphill battle as studies have found the motoring public is not receptive initially, but after one is installed and drivers have become accustomed to it, the approval rating increases substantially. Like anything, however, you can't get used to it until you try it.
