Roundabout approved for Siesta Key (Sarasota: construction, closing, cost)

[Sunshine Rules]

From WWSB: Sarasota County Commissioners approved a roundabout at the intersection of Midnight Pass and Beach Road in Siesta Key. The project will cost $2.9 million and according to Sarasota County Public Works Director Spencer Anderson is funded by the state and FDOT.

Anderson explained the roundabout is supposed to help alleviate traffic and keep pedestrians safe.

“”They’ll push the button, lights will flash and indicate to drivers there’s someone entering the crosswalks. In addition to that, It removes point to conflict between vehicles and pedestrians and what that means, at the various places where a vehicle and pedestrian might interact,” explained Anderson.

The project is starting in the middle of 2024 and expected to be finished in early 2025. Anderson said they won’t be closing down the intersection during construction.


https://www.mysuncoast.com/2023/03/2...sy-siesta-key/

[Tommygphotos]

The north gets rid of all roundabouts and puts in safer traffic methods, then the North moves South and the South steps backwards and installs roundabouts everywhere

Sighhhhh

[MattMN]

Originally Posted by Tommygphotos

The north gets rid of all roundabouts and puts in safer traffic methods, then the North moves South and the South steps backwards and installs roundabouts everywhere

Sighhhhh

From what I've seen, roundabouts are increasing throughout the country. Where are you seeing that the North is getting rid of them?

Roundabouts are proven to reduce deaths and severe inquires. The tradeoff engineers look at are, while there might be an increase in accidents (usually from clueless drivers), they are very low-speed accidents that don't cause many injuries.

I love roundabouts. I hate needless stop signs, or sitting at a red light when there is no traffic around. They keep everyone moving, which is awesome.

They should not be avoided just because some drivers are not used to them. Eventually, people will get used to them, and all traffic will be better off for it.

[MattMN]

That said, I don't see a need for a roundabout at that Siesta Key intersection. It seems well-managed by lights, and I've parked in the church lot several times, and have never had an issue crossing the street.