Technical Liaison Committee

ACTIVE PROJECT

A Review of Canadian Roundabout Experiences

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Study Scope and Objectives: the purpose is to give this study a definitive form that is distinct from other roundabout studies, and has minimum overlap and/or duplication. There is a general consensus that this study is to become a primer for decision makers in Canada, effectively helping them make informed decisions. Additionally, recommendations about best practices and future directions in the Canadian context will also be included. The goal is to produce a useful study versus one that is shelved as just another study.

Survey of Canadian Roundabouts - PDF
Survey of Canadian Roundabouts - Powerpoint

The committee is now working on a document to report on the results.

Status of Write-ups and Timeline
Some have made significant progress. Some work is posted on the Google site. Some are still working on their tasks as time allows. It was expected that within the next two weeks drafts of the remaining tasks will also be submitted to the Google site. Amanda volunteered to help with the write-up for bikes while Bruce will be working on pedestrians.

Case Studies
Discussion revolved around which case studies to include. It was generally agreed that the intent would be to maximize coverage, both technically and also geographically. For example, we may give 1 or 2 examples of skewed geometry, some for multi-lane, some for high speed, some for new roundabouts, some for conversions, etc. All members will be sending in their suggestions about what types to include and perhaps also selected sites which they think should be considered as case studies.

Copyright Issues
At issue is the question of using publically available material on the internet in the final report, such as images from Google. A general feeling was that as long as we give proper reference we can use any material on the internet. Bruce suggested that we check with CITE/TLC what their copy right policy is for using such information. Sajjad will be sending an email to Mike Skene about this.

Assembling the Write-ups and Final Editing
Discussion was about how to assemble various write-ups so there is semblance of flow, and also the final editing. A suggestion had been made earlier that we may consider a professional editor which may cost us a few thousand dollars depending on the length and complexity of the report. Amanda volunteered to assemble the various write-ups as a first cut. It was agreed that when all the various pieces are put together, we can then decide if we need a professional editor or if it can be done in-house. Please also send us your suggestions for this.

Database of Roundabouts in Quebec
Nicolas Saunier of the Polytechnique Montreal joined the meeting at the request of Leanna. He gave the background for the in progress database for Quebec roundabouts. The committee welcomed the idea as representation from Quebec roundabouts was low in the roundabouts survey. Nicolas mentioned that the study started this year and is planned to be completed in 2014. The project is being funded by the Ministry in Quebec. The database currently includes 90 roundabouts, which also includes residential roundabouts. The primary objective is to evaluate safety performance of roundabouts with before and after studies. They will also be conducting a survey soon. Leanna asked whether the Ministry would allow us to use the information in the database. Nicolas will get back to us with the answer to that question. In the meanwhile, Nicolas was willing to be of any help he could and wanted to work with us to see how we can benefit each other.

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