Click：39
Division：交通工程科
Date：113-09-03
Newly Redesigned Zhonghua-Wufu Roundabout Enhances Traffic Flow and Safety
[Kaohsiung News] The recently completed renovation of the Zhonghua-Wufu Roundabout has brought significant improvements to pedestrian spaces and streamlined traffic patterns, resulting in safer and more efficient travel for both vehicles and pedestrians. The inner section of the roundabout now includes designated pedestrian pathways, allowing direct crossing at intersections. All straight, left, and right turns for vehicles now occur within the roundabout's central intersection, while the outer ring is designated for parking, reducing vehicle weaving and enhancing overall traffic safety.
Situated at the intersection of Zhonghua 4th Road and Wufu 3rd Road in Cianjin District, the roundabout previously forced motorbikes and scooters to navigate alongside right-turning cars, leading to frequent conflicts. In October 2022, the Transportation Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government overhauled the roundabout's design to allow motorbikes and scooters to travel straight through, with dedicated left-turn lanes and protected signals enhancing rider safety.
In June 2024, further upgrades were implemented through collaboration between the Public Works Bureau and Transportation Bureau. These included the installation of physical pedestrian islands within the roundabout, enabling pede strians and cyclists to cross directly at intersections without circling the entire area, significantly reducing travel distances. Additionally, the roadway was repaved, and the outer traffic lanes were adjusted to accommodate more parking spaces. Right-turning vehicles are now directed to turn directly at intersections, avoiding the need to merge with roadside parking, while the outer ring is restricted to right turns only. This change minimizes intersection crossing conflicts and further enhances traffic safety.
This roundabout serves as a key route for students of Kaohsiung Municipal Kaohsiung Girls' Senior High School and is one of the city's most popular YouBike routes. The introduction of pedestrian islands at this busy intersection has greatly improved safety for cyclists, who can now avoid navigating the outer ring, saving both time and reducing risk.
Ms. Chen, a local student, shared, "Crossing the roundabout directly is so much more convenient—it saves time on my commute, and the pedestrian islands make it feel much safer." Mr. Wang added, "Cycling within the designated island area feels much safer than sharing the road with cars, motorbikes, and scooters."
The Transportation Bureau also reminded the public that the new traffic pattern simplifies driving routes and improves safety by restricting the outer ring to right turns only. Motorists are encouraged to use the inner intersections for turns and to avoid illegal straight crossings when parking in the outer ring, ensuring a safer environment for all.
