Each year, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes National Roundabout Week to highlight the safety and efficiency benefits of modern roundabouts. Roundabouts have been shown to reduce severe crashes, improve traffic flow, and create safer experiences for both drivers and pedestrians. With these proven results, roundabouts are increasingly becoming a preferred solution for communities across the country.
Our firm distinguishes itself as a leader in roundabout design through a comprehensive approach that spans planning, traffic analysis, design, bidding, and construction oversight. We offer these capabilities in-house, allowing the opportunity to provide seamless project delivery from start to finish. Our engineers are also frequently invited to present at conferences and professional organizations, sharing lessons learned and innovations in roundabout design.
Sain’s extensive experience in traffic modeling and analysis has allowed us to deliver roundabout solutions in a variety of contexts, from rural county roads to high-traffic state routes and interstate interchanges. This expertise has proven especially valuable on some of Alabama’s most challenging corridors. One standout example of how Sain applies roundabout solutions to complex traffic problems is the Hayden, Alabama Roundabout Series project.
Hayden, AL Roundabout Series: A Safer Interchange
In 2022, Sain Associates completed the design process for a three-series roundabout at the intersections of SR-160, US-31, and I-65 near Hayden, Alabama. The client for this project was ALDOT East Central Region, and we partnered with Blount County throughout the design process. The interchange had a history of wrong-way movements onto the interstate, creating dangerous conditions. The project’s goal was clear: eliminate these maneuvers and enhance interchange performance.
- Study to Solution: The initial wrong-way study began in 2014, with design starting in 2018. After extensive concept development and alternative analysis, roundabouts – in a dogbone interchange configuration – were determined to provide the greatest safety benefits.
- Unique Design Challenges: Due to the proximity of the US-31 intersection to the northbound ramps, a third partial cloverleaf interchange was incorporated. Designers carefully accounted for access to nearby gas stations and Park and Ride facilities.
- Implementation: The biggest challenge faced in plan development is that the roundabout series is irregular and non-linear, so a traditional set of roadway plans does not translate directly. During construction, ALDOT opted for a temporary closure of US-31 and an incentivized detour period. Another challenge included obtaining the right-of-way from nearby parcels and easements to reconstruct driveways connecting to the gas stations.
The completed project has transformed the area, providing drivers with safer, more intuitive navigation through the interchange. Projects like Hayden reflect Sain Associates’ mission to deliver innovative solutions that improve safety and mobility for Alabama communities. To read more about the Hayden project’s impact, check out this recent Bham Now article.