Abstract Outline (rough draft)

The main goal of this paper is to analyze and compare different types of intersections found in today's roads. The resulting information and data will be incorporated into a hybrid design. The new design will take the most desirable aspects of each intersection to produce a superior one. As urban growth continues the need for new infrastructure is always ongoing. Signaled intersections require a continuous stream of electricity and have increased danger in comparison to roundabouts. This paper will explore the possibility of solar powered traffic lights and a roundabout design the population will not view negatively.

Original Graphic

After comparing different intersections, what aspects of each system will be incorporated into a hybrid design?

Some Statistics

Here's a document with good information and statistics

http://www.tfhrc.gov/safety/00-0675.pdf

Opposed To Roundabouts

http://www.miltonkeynes.co.uk/news/Traffic-lights-better-than-roundabouts.3682479.jp

Updated Proposal

Summary Statement

What are the benefits and advantages/disadvantages of modern traffic circles in comparison with signaled intersections? Is there a resulting design that can incorporate the benefits of both systems?


Purpose

The purpose of this project is to research the current designs of intersections, compare the benefits of the different systems, and incorporate the benefits into a hybrid design.

Goals and Objectives

My main goal for this project is to gain knowledge in the current design of intersections. I want to explore the possibility of creating a hybrid design that can incorporate the benefits of today's different intersection systems.


Methodology and Analytical Approach

- Preliminary Research
- Research roundabout designs

- Research signaled intersection designs

Relativity of Project

There are an increasing number of people living in urban areas. Urban growth contributes to an increasing amount of vehicles in our cities. Intersections can be dangerous places. The need to reduce accidents is an ongoing effort. The simplicity and the ability to keep traffic moving are great benefits of roundabouts, however, the publics knowledge of how to use one is a concern. The stop and go of signaled intersections is great for setting a standard set of rules road users must abide by, however, the need for constant electricity is a downfall. The need for an intersection design that incorporates the green aspect of roundabouts and the rules set out from signaled intersections is ever increasing in today's society.


Dissemination of Work

The dissemination of the work completed during this project will be done using a public blog. This blog will be regularly updated with new information and with the status of the project.

Bibliography

New Ubanism and beyond : Designing cities for the Future Haas, Tigran. 2008

Updated as I continue to gather information and research this project.

Thesis Question

Please comment and feel free to voice any suggestions.

Question: What are the benefits and advantages/disadvantages of modern traffic circles in comparison with signaled intersections? Is there a resulting design that can incorporate the benefits of both systems?

Info from BC govt

http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/popular-topics/roundabouts/roundabouts.htm

I found this page had some good information with a few videos.