Likewise for roundabouts. They're putting in new ones in some areas. In other areas, there simply isn't the room based on existing buildings, etc. Not to mention the cost aspect. It might help, but it's not "easy".
GP was most likely thinking not of large roundabouts that take the place of major intersections, but the smaller traffic-calming type where the center can be as minimal as a 3 foot wide concrete block. They can be fit into pretty much any intersection because their purpose is not to change the path so much as to, frankly, eat up whatever extra space is available, which forces cars to slow around them.
Are you thinking just of roundabouts that include a raised middle and/or central reservations on approaching roads? In general, roundabouts need no more space and cost than a regular road would, see e.g. https://goo.gl/maps/Y6jzLq5SuYzMMf2a6
I have to say I agree with you on the roundabout. Nothing changes a driver's mind like a square curb. That particular intersection didn't have space though, so they installed that abomination.
Changing driver behaviour though? I'm pretty negative about it.
I get honked at regularly for stopping at those stop signs. The police head to Twitter and make fun of a few drivers a week for stunt driving. The city is opening a new processing centre because they can't handle the load of the speeding tickets from the speed cameras.
Yet I only see more and more aggression out there. People drive like they're the only ones on the road.
It's a 40 minute walk, one way, from my door to the nearest store. As much as I'd love to avoid the situation altogether, I don't have time to walk. Forcing people to drive everywhere is probably part of the problem, though.
