N.C. Department of Transportation crews opened a newly-constructed roundabout on Farmington Road at I-40.

“The roundabout will alleviate some of the congestion at nearby businesses and schools,” said Division 9 Maintenance Engineer John Rhyne.

A roundabout is a circular intersection that directs traffic around a center island without using traffic signals.

Because roundabouts allow for continuous flow, vehicles pass through the intersection more efficiently than traditional intersections, Rhyne said. This not only reduces congestion, but also helps to reduce pollution and decrease fuel usage. Roundabouts are proven to reduce accidents by as much as 50 percent at some intersections without signals.

As roundabouts become more common across the state, NCDOT will continue its efforts to educate motorists about how they work. The department will also install signs providing advance warning of the roundabout along both roads leading to the intersection.

NCDOT reminds motorists to use caution in the area, watch signs for construction information and allow plenty of time to reach their destinations safely.

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