City of Rochester Addresses Confusion Over Strafford Square Roundabout Slip Lane

Photo byCity of Rochester

ROCHESTER, NH - The City of Rochester has received feedback from residents indicating that some drivers are experiencing confusion regarding the use of the slip lane at the Strafford Square Roundabout on North Main Street. This slip lane is an important feature of the roundabout, designed to serve two key purposes: providing access to properties along the north side of the roundabout and offering additional capacity for outbound traffic on North Main Street during peak hours.

To mitigate the confusion, the City’s Public Works Department is considering making adjustments to the signage near the slip lane, specifically by removing the word “Abutters.” This change aims to clarify the intended use of the slip lane and improve the overall flow of traffic in the area.

The Strafford Square Roundabout is a Modern Roundabout, a design known for enhancing safety and improving traffic flow. Unlike traditional intersections, Modern Roundabouts are proven to reduce accidents, injuries, and congestion. They also contribute to lower noise levels and reduced air pollution. The roundabout’s design encourages slower speeds, which significantly reduces the severity of accidents and nearly eliminates the most serious types of crashes that are common at conventional intersections.

The City’s Public Works Department encourages residents and drivers to familiarize themselves with the benefits and proper navigation of Modern Roundabouts. For more information on how to effectively navigate a roundabout, residents can visit the Public Works section of the City of Rochester's website at www.rochesternh.gov/public-works or consult the Institute for Highway Safety (IHS) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at www.roundabouts.us.

By ensuring that drivers are well-informed about the function and benefits of the Strafford Square Roundabout, the City of Rochester aims to improve safety and traffic flow for all who travel through this area.