Governmental Agency Training & Workshops

Looking for upcoming training and workshops?
View our workshop schedule or contact us to schedule a workshop.

Ourston provides modern roundabout workshops and seminars for governmental agencies across North America. Ourston can customize a training workshop to match your departments’s skill requirements and individual needs.

We have been providing training since Leif Ourston started designing roundabouts in 1986.  We have been repeatedly involved with LTAP programs in several states including Arizona, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Maine, New Hampshire, Colorado and California.  We have teamed up with FHWA Resource Center roundabout specialist, Mark Doctor on two occasions.  We have formulated and designed multiple format courses from introductory to detailed design and in-service evaluation of existing layouts.  We use detailed “hands-on” design training with real world working (constructed) examples and case studies. 

Typically, we provide formal training in the planning, design, construction and operation of roundabouts. Training content and length will be varied based on the purpose, need and audience. Example topics include:

• Use of the guides (FHWA, ORE, U.K. TAC etc.)
• Use of capacity and safety prediction models (ARCADY 7, RODEL, HCM and NCHRP safety prediction model) including training using software in a hands-on computer lab.  Temporary software training licenses are available
• Principles of roundabouts that are taken for granted (entry path, entry angle, yield principle, etc.)
• Capacity and safety performance measures and design parameters; how to manipulate them and context sensitivity
• Pitfalls of design with case studies
• How to generate alternative geometric solutions using the capacity analysis
• Design checks and geometric refinements to optimize safety and capacity
• Sketching and developing the composition of a functional multi-lane design
• Topics on signage, markings, bicycle treatments, education and acceptance and lighting interspersed)
• A forum for Q & A to examine roundabouts being reviewed by staff and how to comment effectively in optimizing designs
• Field visits to interpret operations and troubleshoot poor operations
• Microsimulation modelling (VISSIM)
• How to organize a submission; when and what to submit
• Guide sign design
• Lighting pole placement
• Landscaping for safety and aesthetics

Check out our upcoming and past workshops.

Please Contact Us for further information.