WILLEMSTAD – In planning new traffic roundabouts, Curaçao is increasingly looking at the so-called Aruba model, better known as the turbo roundabout. Traffic expert Melvin Cijntje told local newspaper Èxtra that elements of this system are being considered amid ongoing public debate about confusion and traffic accidents at roundabouts on the island.
The discussion flared up again following a recent ruling by the Court of Justice in a traffic case involving the roundabout near Plaza Hariri, also known as Palu Blanku. In appeal, the Court overturned an earlier verdict and classified the roundabout as a turbo roundabout. That interpretation raised eyebrows among traffic experts in Curaçao, as the island does not formally have turbo roundabouts under its current road design standards.
According to Cijntje, Curaçao has traditionally followed the American roundabout model, while Aruba deliberately opted for the Dutch-style turbo roundabout system. Turbo roundabouts typically have two or sometimes three lanes and feature physical lane separation, such as raised curbs—often referred to colloquially as “pig backs”—that limit lane changes and guide traffic more clearly.
At present, Curaçao only has single-lane roundabouts, which, according to Cijntje, require a higher level of traffic education and driver awareness to function safely. The lack of physical guidance can contribute to uncertainty, particularly when drivers are unfamiliar with right-of-way rules.
Nevertheless, plans already exist that incorporate elements of the Aruba model. Along the route between Zegu and Corendon, new roundabouts are being designed as turbo roundabouts, featuring multiple lanes and clear physical separation. Cijntje says these designs have proven to function better and lead to fewer accidents.
He stresses that this is not a judgment that Curaçao’s current roundabout model is inherently flawed, but rather that it represents a policy choice. Clear decisions on road design, combined with consistent implementation and driver education, are key to improving traffic safety and reducing confusion on Curaçao’s roads.