The City of Carmel once again is holding daily events in celebration of National Roundabouts Week, which is observed annually by the Federal Highway Administration’s Office of Safety on the third week of September. Carmel, which has more roundabouts than any other city in America, proudly celebrates this week and uses it as an opportunity to share the safety benefits of roundabouts.
“Our roundabouts have made national news, appearing on the front page of the New York Times and being featured on the CBS Evening News, among other media. I also see many other communities wanting to emulate what we have done,” Mayor Jim Brainard said. “Statistics show that roundabouts lead to fewer fatalities and fewer personal injury accidents at the intersections that have been modified.”
As of 2021, Carmel’s fatality rate during the previous five years was the lowest average in central Indiana with 2.25 fatal crashes per 100,000 residents, compared to Fishers (4.56), Westfield (8.04), Noblesville (6.729) and Indianapolis (13.44). While accidents still occur at roundabouts, they tend to be limited to vehicle damage due to the lower speeds and more angular impact points within the roundabout.
The schedule for this week is below. All events are free and open to the public.
Gazebo Giveaway Night
From to 6 to 7 p.m. tonight, Sept. 21, visit the City of Carmel table located next to the Gazebo on the City Hall lawn as a prelude to the Family Summer Concert Series. Winners will be drawn and prizes given out right before the Jai Baker Trio takes stage at 7 p.m.
Pedestrian Party at the Synergize Hub
From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22, join the city for a ‘Pedestrian Party’ at the Synergize HUB located at the roundabout at Elm Street and Range Line Road. DJ Rashad is back. There will be free food and giveaways, plus you are invited to recreate the Beatles’ album cover Abbey Road. A professional photographer will be on-site to take images of those taking part in the crosswalk re-creation.
Wear Your Roundabout Shirt Day
Friday, Sept. 23 is Wear Your Roundabout Shirt Day. Be sure to show your National Roundabouts Week spirit by posting a photo of you in your roundabout shirt on social media with the hashtags #nationalroundaboutsweek and #carmelroundaboutsweek.
For more information, see the Event Calendar on the Carmel city website.