European in concept, this traffic roundabout isn't some wimpy little circle that serves as a supplement to neighborhood speed bumps. Instead, it's a true traffic-calming device. The large circle is enclosed by red concrete and contains small but growing vegetation along with numerous decorative rocks. The circle draws vehicles—from three directions—that slow down considerably because of yield signs and the required turning movement. That obviously hasn't worked every time, because on a recent visit, four bent safety posts in the circle showed not all drivers had navigated the turn successfully. Despite that drawback, the circle still beats Big Brother, 1984 approaches to controlling traffic speeds.
Best Place to Go Around in Circles
Traffic Circle at Grande Avenue and Cushing Street
© 2024 Tucson Weekly
