To the editor:

I routinely use the roundabouts at 19th and Barker and 17th and New Hampshire streets. I love roundabouts and other traffic-calming devices.

The city staff did an exemplary job of listening to the needs and views of the neighborhood, to the point of modifying final plans to address concerns. The process did give greater emphasis to the views of the neighborhood over those just passing through, as it should be. I would honor preferences in other neighborhoods even if they caused me some inconvenience.

Traffic calming works. Drivers are slower and more attentive. Roundabouts take a little getting used to, but the flow is more logical than a four-way stop. Some drivers have trouble with the concept “yield,” and others seem put out by having to go around the circle to make a left turn. But the roundabouts and barriers do force drivers to pay attention and think while they drive — a novel concept.

The two traffic circles in my neighborhood are well-designed and attractive. Both are landscaped, and one includes a sculpture. They add to the quality of the neighborhood and will continue to do so for decades with little maintenance costs.

City investment in the community costs taxpayer dollars, mine included. The traffic-calming efforts of the city are forward-thinking and make my neighborhood better.

So, thanks to all Lawrence residents for investing in my neighborhood. I’ll do the same for yours.

Steven Maynard-Moody,

Lawrence