INTERSECTION CHANNELIZATION DESIGN GUIDE

This report presents the results of research conducted under NCHRP Project 3-30. The objective of this research was to prepare a publication updating the information in HRB Special Report 74 and incorporating information, illustrations, and guidelines on the current state of the art for channelization. This research covers channelization of both new and reconstructed intersections in urban and rural environments. The research includes typical intersection types such as 4-way, Y, T, oblique, and multileg intersections, as well as freeway ramp intersections with surface streets. The channelization guidelines presented in this report provide specific principles and criteria on the applicability of channelization techniques. In observing the evolution of channelization practices, and reviewing current designs, a number of important points are evident. First and foremost, intersections must be considered as critical highway elements requiring special attention. Geometry adequate for tangent open highway may be inadequate at or near intersections. The importance of driver expectations is heightened on approaches to intersections. Second, recent experience with "over-channelized" intersections has taught engineers that simplicity in design is highly important. Islands should be kept to the minimum required for the channelization functions of the locations. Simple designs are easier to construct, more adaptable to changes in traffic needs, and are understood better by drivers. Third, one should always be reminded of the important design and operational concerns typical of a given situation. Such concerns can be expressed in terms of specific operational priorities for rural, Suburban and Urban intersections. Typical examples of good current practice are documented in the final chapter of this report, including fully dimensioned plan views, photographs, and agency insights to the specific applications (including unique features).

• Record URL:
  http://onlinepubs.trb.org/Onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_rpt_279.pdf
• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00775614
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved
• Corporate Authors:

  Transportation Research Board

  500 Fifth Street, NW
  Washington, DC  United States  20001
• Authors:
  • Neuman, T R
• Publication Date: 1985-11

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 153 p.
• Serial:
  • NCHRP Report
  • Issue Number: 279
  • Publisher: Transportation Research Board
  • ISSN: 0077-5614

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Channelized intersections; Design; Intersections; State of the art studies
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Planning and Forecasting; I21: Planning of Transport Infrastructure;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00454534
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
• Created Date: Jul 31 1986 12:00AM