On this week’s episode of Tying it Together, host Tim Boyum tackles one of the biggest and most talked about issues in North Carolina: traffic.

As a growing state, we are seeing all kinds of improved roads and many new designs, including roundabouts and what are called diamond interchanges. 

Dr. Daniel Findley, Associate Director for the Institute of Transportation Research and Education at N.C. State University, joins Tim to discuss road design and the enormous challenge surrounding the gas tax and funding roads.

Roundabouts have a lot of advantages, he said, and they seem to be popping up everywhere. But they need to be put in the right place.

“How many times have you been at a signal when there’s no other traffic and you’re thinking, ‘I wish I could go.’ Roundabouts allow you to do that,” Dr. Findley said.

Even though there are some a few places where roundabouts aren’t ideal, and two-lane ones are tricky, they’re usually better than traffic lights, he said.

“Assuming they’re in the right place, and they’re designed well, which, in general, I think they are. They work really well throughout the whole day,” Dr. Findley said.

N.C. State is a hotbed for a lot of the research that goes into these decisions like these. 

About the Podcast

With the speed of the local news cycle, it's easy to forget that the politicians who represent us and the influencers in our communities are more than just a sound bite. North Carolina’s veteran reporter and anchor, Tim Boyum, loosens his signature bow tie to give listeners a glimpse behind the curtain, showing us who these power players really are and why they do what they do. Through Tim’s candid conversations on “Tying It Together,” his guests reveal their most fascinating life stories, passions, and help all of us get a better grasp on the issues affecting our communities.

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