Raleigh City Council Expected to Discuss Roundabout Plan Today

RALEIGH, N.C. — Hillsborough Street is back on the agenda Tuesday for Raleigh city council members. They are expected to discuss a plan to bring roundabouts to the area.

The city of Raleigh is considering the roundabouts on Hillsborough Street to slow traffic and make the area safer for pedestrians and better for businesses. However, not all city councilmembers are in that loop.

City councilwoman Joyce Kekas, who is leading the opposition against the roundabouts, said more needs to be done to address parking and economic development issues on the street. She points to Glenwood South and Fayetteville Street as other main drags showing signs of success without roundabouts.

"The roundabouts we are talking about solve traffic problems, not revitalization problems," she said.

Most business owners and residents in the area support the traffic circles. Property owners are convinced an improved Hillsborough Street with roundabouts will draw people to the neighborhood.

"It's going to be a win-win situation. I don't understand the argument for not doing it," said Donna Bailey, of the University Park Homeowners Association.

The student body president at N.C. State is also pushing for the roundabouts. He was busy gathering support last week to present to the city council on Tuesday.