A new traffic roundabout is now open, and many drivers are still going in circles as they wrap their head around how to use it.
The roundabout at the corner of Provincial Trunk Highway 6 and Provincial Road 236 opened to traffic on Oct. 15.
“A roundabout was chosen at this location as traffic volumes on PTH 6 in the vicinity of Winnipeg have increased with higher numbers of commuter and local traffic. Congestion during morning and afternoon peak traffic became an issue,” said a provincial spokesperson.
“The goal of this roundabout project is to improve safety, reduce the congestion and eliminate traffic operational issues. Roundabouts are proven to reduce accidents by as much as 89 per cent versus a standard lighted intersection.”
The PTH 6 and PR 236 intersection is a two-lane roundabout, accommodating agricultural equipment and long-combination vehicles efficiently and safely, the spokesperson added.
“A roundabout has several advantages over a conventional intersection, such as improved safety and traffic flow,” the spokesperson said.
“Roundabouts are also easier to maintain and less expensive to operate than an intersection controlled by traffic lights.”
Roundabouts work by improving traffic flow and reducing waiting time at intersections.
“When vehicles approach a roundabout, they slow and watch for traffic from the left until it is safe to merge,” the spokesperson explained.
“A vehicle on the roundabout has the right-of-way over other vehicles that are entering the roundabout. Vehicles continue on the roundabout until they reach the desired location and exit to the right.”
The remaining project at PTH 6 and PR 236 is not yet fully complete and went into seasonal shutdown Nov. 4.
“A small amount of top lift paving remains on PTH 6, which includes a section on PTH 101 (at the intersection) that will be milled and repaved,” the spokesperson said. “This work is expected to be completed in 2024.”
More information is available at Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure’s webpage at https://www.gov.mb.ca/mti/notice/pth6/index.html.
When do I yield in a roundabout?
When entering a roundabout, drivers should look left and must yield to vehicles already inside the circular lane(s).
What is the appropriate speed for travelling in a roundabout?
Appropriate speed can vary depending on the size and shape of the roundabout, the location and road conditions. Follow the posted speed and reduce speeds as necessary for adverse weather and conditions such as snow or ice.
When do I need to signal when using a roundabout?
In a multi-lane roundabout, you should set your left signal upon entering, indicating you will continue to travel within the roundabout. Switch to your right signal when you pass the exit that is immediately before the exit you will use, which will let other drivers know you intend to exit.
In a single-lane roundabout, you do not need to use your left signal upon entering. Simply use your right signal when you pass the exit that is immediately before the exit you will use.
What do I do if an emergency vehicle approaches?
Do not pull over in the roundabout. Exit the roundabout and pull over to the right when it is safe to do so and let the emergency vehicle pass. It is never safe to pull over or park in a roundabout.
