GEOMETRIC DESIGN OF STREETS AND HIGHWAYS. IN: HANDBOOK OF TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING

This chapter describes how the design of highway facilities is a process that requires an understanding of the theories that describe human behavior and the interactions of the physical world and the application of them in a practical and cost-effective manner. Highway designs must accommodate a range of drivers and vehicle types that encompass a wide range of characteristics and capabilities as well as a number of other external influences such as weather, lighting, and even local driving customs. Because of this there is no "one-size-fits-all" design. Each design must be evaluated within the specific location, objective, and constraints of the particular location. While certainly a key component, a proper geometric design on its won will not ensure the safe and proper use of a highway. Effective design must be integrated with adequate and continuous enforcement and education efforts. Another consideration is that conditions can change over time, or the conditions assumed during the original design may turn out to be different once it is constructed and in operation. Thus, both safety and operational conditions must be monitored over time to minimize accidents and delays that may occur. A design must be developed within the context of many related topics discussed in the various chapters of this book, including pedestrian facilities, roadway lighting, parking, and safety countermeasures. Designers also need to stay current on evolving standards, and practices of highway design as well as the changing philosophies of design, including those associated with traffic calming, mixed land use developments, environmental controls (including those for air and noise pollution), and other socioeconomic and environmental impacts. Information can be both through published sources and through involvements in professional organizations.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0071391223
• Corporate Authors:

  McGraw-Hill, Incorporated

  330 West 42nd Street
  New York, NY  United States  10036
• Authors:
  • Wolshon, B
• Publication Date: 2004

Language

• English

Media Info

• Features: References; Tables;
• Pagination: 12 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Development; Drivers; Environmental impacts; Facilities; Geometric design; Highways; Information systems; Land use; Lighting; Pedestrians; Roadway guidance markers; Socioeconomic development; Streets; Traffic calming; Transportation engineering
• Subject Areas: Design; Environment; Highways; Pedestrians and Bicyclists; Planning and Forecasting; Society; I21: Planning of Transport Infrastructure;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00988751
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 0071391223
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 27 2005 12:00AM