To the editor:

As a driver who uses my turn signals in the traffic circle in an effort to keep the cars flowing smoothly I agree with those that think that the traffic circle has worked well, and I heartily disagree with those that think the traffic circle should be reverted back into a four-way stop.

The traffic circle was installed in an effort to avoid a traffic signal at this intersection, and I feel it has succeeded.

When it was a four-way stop the cars would get backed up long distances, mostly around the time school would let out. Even with our still evolving understanding of the best way to traverse the intersection it has improved greatly.

Perhaps a primer on the use of traffic circles would help. First of all, you don’t need to wait until the car in the circle leaves the circle to enter, you merely allow the car already in the circle the right of way and proceed at a safe distance and speed. A moderate speed is essential to the coordination of people and cars through the intersection.

For the other 23 hours of the day when school is not either starting or ending the traffic circle enables you to travel through the intersection without stopping, saving time and gas.

RICK BARRENGER

Bainbridge Island