Chapter 13 - Traffic Forecasting and Analysis Concepts

13.3. Arterial Traffic Analysis and Design

Arterials are a functional classification of street transportation facilities that are intended to provide for through trips that are generally longer than trips on collector facilities and local streets. While the need to provide access to abutting land is not the primary function, the design of arterials must also balance this important need. To further highlight the often competing demands of urban arterials, it should be recognized that other modes of travel such as pedestrians and public transit are also present and must be accommodated. 

To assure that arterials can safely provide acceptable levels of service for the design conditions, a number of design elements must be addressed. Since each design element is essentially determined based on separate analyses, the designer should then evaluate the entire arterial system and be prepared to refine certain elements to obtain an effective and efficient overall design.