Concrete Pavements in Roundabout Intersections: Case Studies

AUTHORS: Hossain, M.S.; Naranjo, A.; Schmalzer, P.; and Smith, K.

ABSTRACT: Over the last several decades, the use of roundabouts has grown considerably in the United States. Roundabouts have been shown to be an effective solution for managing traffic at many intersections, offering improved safety performance, shorter delays and shorter queues, improved speed management, reduced operating costs, and aesthetic value. Various pavement structures can be used in roundabout intersections, including three different concrete pavement types: jointed plain concrete (JPC), continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), and precast concrete panels (PCP). JPC structures are by far the most common concrete pavement type used in roundabout construction, but several recent projects in the U.S. have been built featuring CRCP and PCP designs. Each concrete pavement type requires competent structural designs and effective construction practices to ensure their long-term performance.

This paper presents several case studies featuring these three concrete pavement types in roundabout intersections, including three JPC projects in Nevada, two CRCP projects in Texas, and two PCP projects in Virginia. All sections were constructed within the last 10 years and are generally performing satisfactorily. Important design and construction details for each of these projects are described, along with information on the current condition and performance. A summary of key observations from each concrete pavement type is also presented. Together, this information will prove valuable to practitioners in adopting long-lasting concrete pavements for roundabout intersections.