Transportation

N.E. 49th Street and 137th Avenue Roundabout

Residents living near the crossroad of N.E. 137th Avenue and 49th Street in Vancouver, Wash., were worried about how the increased traffic congestion at the intersection was affecting the safety and livability of their neighborhood. After hearing of a proposed development nearby, the community requested the city of Vancouver suspend any development until after an acceptable solution to the growing traffic congestion could be found.

The proposed solution was to install a traffic light. However the citizens were concerned about traffic backing up across driveways, as well as safety, noise and aesthetics issues. Installing a roundabout addressed all of the community's concerns and provided capacity for development.

DEA worked closely with the city to create a solution that was not only safe, efficient, and sustainable, but accounted for the continuing growth in the community. DEA designed a two-lane compact urban roundabout with a European influence, such as an increased entry angle, and incorporated WSDOT and FHWA guidelines to increase safety and improve aesthetics.

Studies show that roundabouts lower fuel consumption and cut hydrocarbon emissions at intersections. The process and result to this growing urban issue serves as a model of future solutions for neighborhoods seeking sustainable traffic alternatives. DEA was able to design and develop a custom, dynamic solution to meet and exceed expectations, and pave the way for similar projects in the future.