Would Roundabouts Work In Elmhurst?

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst officials agreed Tuesday that roundabouts are good for traffic flow, safety and the environment.

But they're not sure where roundabouts would work in town.

In August, three aldermen asked the city to look into roundabouts, which have become increasingly popular around the country.

At a City Council committee meeting, Stanley Balicki, the city's public works director, said roundabouts have benefits. But he suggested the city consult with an engineering firm with specialized knowledge of roundabouts before picking specific intersections as candidates.

Officials referred to Carmel, Indiana, which is known for roundabouts.

"They're literally taking out traffic signals everywhere (in Carmel)," Elmhurst City Engineer Kent Johnson said. "Their luxury is they have huge rights of way to do so. It's amazing to drive through there. It's efficient."

Alderman Mike Brennan, one of the three council members seeking roundabouts, said it was worth seeking expertise. But he noted the city was constrained, given its rights of way are generally not wide enough for roundabouts.

Alderman Michael Honquest said he didn't think the city would find many suitable spots, except possibly the five-legged intersection involving Riverside Drive and Route 83.

"I kind of like roundabouts," he said. "I don't think we have enough space to put them in."

As a next step, Balicki said, the city could seek a consultant and show the council what a roundabout would look like in Elmhurst.

Aldermen agreed with that plan.