From the Olympian:

Many motorists complain about roundabouts, the giant traffic circles that are growing in popularity in South Sound.

As Olympia officials consider adding three more roundabouts to Boulevard Road, one question looms: Are the circles improving public safety on area roadways?

Preliminary information in Lacey and Olympia indicates that there are fewer injury accidents in roundabouts and that the severity of injuries is diminished. The new traffic-calming devices are working.

Bolstered by the encouraging accident statistics, Olympia officials are poised to add up to three roundabouts along Boulevard Road. At a recent public meeting, neighbors were divided on the issue of roundabouts. Like 'em or hate 'em, local officials are building a credible case that roundabouts improve safety for the motoring public.