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Timestamp: 2018-08-17 02:07:27
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1 APPENDIX A SECTION A-1-GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS Introduction... A-1 Flexibility In Design... A-1 Secondary Project Improvements... A-2 Roadway Width... A-3 Design Speed (V)... A-3 Operating Speed... A-7 Posted Speed... A-7 Design Waivers... A-8 Design Exceptions... A-8 Functional Classification... A-8 Lane/Shoulder/Pavement Transitions, Merging Tapers & Speed Change Lengths... A-10 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Principal Arterial System (GS-1)... A-11 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Minor Arterial System (GS-2)... A-12 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Collector Road System (GS-3)... A-13 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Local Road System (GS-4)... A-14 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Principal Arterial System (GS-5)... A-15 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Minor Arterial Street System (GS-6)... A-16 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Collector Street System (GS-7)... A-17 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Local Street System (GS-8)... A-18 Geometric Design Standards For Service Roads (GS-9)... A-19 Geometric Design Standards For Interchange Ramps (GS-R)... A-20 Geometric Design Standards For Temporary Diversion (GS-10)... A-21 Geometric Design Standards For Shoulder Design (GS-11)... A-22 Geometric Design Standards For Shoulder Design For Local Road & Streets (GS-12)... A-23 Geometric Design Standards For Graded Median Design (GS-13)... A-24 SECTION A-2-CLEAR ZONE/LATERAL OFFSET GUIDELINES Introduction... A-25 Roadways With Shoulders... A-25 Roadways With Curb... A-26 Clear Zone Cost-Effectiveness Analysis... A-30 Embankment Slopes... A-31 Horizontal Curve Adjustments... A-32 Showing Clear Zones/ Lateral Offsets On Typical Sections... A-33 Non-Recoverable Parallel Slopes... A-35
2 SECTION A-3- INNOVATIVE INTERSECTION AND INTERCHANGE DESIGN GUIDELINES Current VDOT Innovative Intersection and Interchange Control Types... A-37 Innovative Intersection Design Guidelines... A-38 Displaced Left-Turn Intersection (DLT)... A-38 Median U-Turn Intersection (MUT)... A-39 Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersection (RCUT)... A-40 Continuous Green-T (CGT)... A-41 Quadrant Roadway Intersection (QR)... A-42 Quadrant Roadway Intersection... A-43 Jug-Handle... A-44 Roundabouts... A-45 Mini-Roundabouts... A-48 Single-Lane Roundabouts... A-50 Multi-Lane Roundabouts... A-51 Geometric Design Criteria For Single-Lane and Multi-Lane Roundabouts... A-52 Bicycle And Pedestrian Accommodations... A-54 Design Resources... A-55 The Review and Approval Process For Roundabouts... A-55 Innovative Interchange Design Guidelines... A-57 Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI)... A-58 Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI)... A-76 Double Roundabout Interchange... A-77 SECTION A-4-GUIDELINES FOR RRR PROJECTS Objective... A-78 Authority... A-79 Definitions... A-79 Project Selection... A-80 Eligibility... A-80 Accident Records... A-81 Bridge Rehabilitation or Replacement Selection Policy... A-81 Environmental Considerations... A-82 Access Control... A-82 Project Development... A-82 Roadway And Travelway Widths... A-82 Design Traffic Volumes... A-83 Design Speed... A-83 Terrain... A-84 Safety... A-84 Geometric Design Criteria... A-87 Clear Zones and Slopes... A-88 Grades... A-88 Crest Vertical Curves... A-88 Sag Vertical Curves... A-88 Stopping Sight Distances... A-89 Horizontal Curves... A-89 Pavement Cross Slope... A-90 Superelevation Requirements... A-90 Pavement Edge Drop... A-90
3 Intersections... A-90 Design Exceptions... A-91 Planning Drainage Design Elements... A-91 Replacement or Rehabilitation of Drainage Elements... A-91 Hydraulic Characteristics... A-92 Safety Improvements Relative To Drainage Design... A-93 Bridge Restoration... A-93 Bridge Rehabilitation... A-93 Culvert Replacement... A-94 Culvert Rehabilitation... A-94 Culvert Extensions... A-95 Signing, Signals and Pavement Markings... A-95 Plan Reviews... A-95 Public Involvement... A-96 Right of Way... A-96 Utilities (Underground and Overhead)... A-96 Tort Liability and Geometric Design... A-96 Background On Tort Liability... A-97 Rrr Improvements and Tort Claims... A-97 Susceptibility of RRR Projects and Standards To Tort Claims... A-97 Defense of a RRR Project Design... A-98 RRR Notes On Project Title Sheet... A-99 Preventive Maintenance (PM) Projects / RRR Projects Utilizing Federal Funding On National Highway System (NHS) Roadways... A-99 SECTION A-5-BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN FACILITY GUIDELINES VDOT Policy To Improve Bicycle and Pedestrian Access... A-104 Planning and Design of Bicycle Facilities... A-108 Bicycle Access Facilities... A-108 Existing Roads... A-109 Major Developments and Site Plans... A-109 Selecting Roadway Design Treatments To Accommodate Bicycles... A-110 VDOT/AASHTO Design Guidelines... A-118 Shared Roadways... A-119 Signed Shared Roadways... A-121 Bike Lanes... A-121 Separated Bike Lanes... A-124 Shared Use Paths... A-124 AASHTO Approved Interstate Bicycle Routes... A-140 Resources... A-141 Trails and Trailheads... A-143 Rails With Trails... A-146 Curb Ramp and Pedestrian Access Route Goals and Objectives... A-148 Curb Ramps... A-148 Miscellaneous Notes... A-149 Guidelines For Curb Ramp Locations... A-149 Procedure For Determining The Location and Design of Curb Ramps... A-150 Curb Ramp Elements and Types... A-151 Ramp... A-151 Landing... A-151 Flare... A-151
4 Perpendicular Curb Ramp (CG-12, Type A)... A-152 Parallel Curb Ramp (CG-12, Type B)... A-153 Combined (Parallel & Perpendicular) Curb Ramp (CG-12, Type C)... A-154 Curb Ramp Application Details... A-155 Diagonal Curb Ramp... A-156 Pedestrian Access Route... A-161 New Construction... A-161 Technically Infeasible... A-161 Alterations... A-162 Guidelines For Alterations... A-163 Alteration (Retrofit) CG-12 Into Existing Curb and Gutter and/or Sidewalk Locations... A-164 Public Right of Way... A-168 Buffer Strip... A-168 Sidewalks... A-169 Hand Rail Requirements... A-173 Sidewalk Transition From Roadway Onto Bridge... A-175 SECTION A-6 AIRPORT CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS Associated City Public-Use Airport... A-178 SECTION A-7-"NO PLAN" AND "MINIMUM PLAN" PROJECTS General Concepts... A-180 Public Hearing and Right of Way... A-181 Special Design Structures, Soil Survey and Pavement Design... A-183 Mobilization and Field Office... A-183 Drainage Facilities and Erosion and Sediment Control Measures... A-183 VPDES Construction General Permit and Post Construction Stormwater Management... A-184 Contract Time Limit... A-184 Procedures... A-184 Project Scoping Field Review... A-184 "No Plan" Projects... A-185 "Minimum Plan" Projects... A-187 Permits And Reviews ("No Plan" and "Minimum Plan" Projects)... A-189 Plan Preparation... A-189 Specifications... A-190 Project Layout... A-191 Inspection and Record Keeping... A-191
5 SECTION A-8-SEQUENCE OF CONSTRUCTION/ TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT PLANS (TMP) Introduction... A-199 Sequence of Construction... A-202 Items To Address Under Sequence of Construction... A-203 Temporary Traffic Control Plans... A-205 Items To Be Addressed Under Maintenance of Traffic Include... A-208 Notes Which May Be Appropriate On Temporary Traffic Control and Sequence of Construction Plans Include... A-214 Limitation of Operation... A-214 Constructability... A-215 Items To Be Addressed Under Constructability Include:... A-216 References... A-217 Sequence Of Construction And Temporary Traffic Control Items To Consider... A-218 A. Sequence Of Construction... A-218 B. Temporary Traffic Control... A-219 C. Constructability... A-220
6 LIST OF FIGURES Figure A-1-1 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Principal Arterial System (GS-1)... A-11 Figure A-1-2 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Minor Arterial System (GS-2)... A-12 Figure A-1-3 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Collector Road System (GS-3)... A-13 Figure A-1-4 Geometric Design Standards For Rural Local Road System (GS-4)... A-14 Figure A-1-5 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Principal Arterial System (GS-5)... A-15 Figure A-1-6 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Minor Arterial System (GS-6)... A-16 Figure A-1-7 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Collector Road System (GS-7)... A-17 Figure A-1-8 Geometric Design Standards For Urban Local Road System (GS-8)... A-18 Figure A-1-9 Geometric Design Standards For Service Road (GS-9)... A-19 Figure A-1-10 Geometric Design Standards For Interchange Ramps (GS-R)... A-20 Figure A-1-11 Geometric Design Standards For Temporary Diversion (GS-10)... A-21 Figure A-1-12 Geometric Design Standards For Shoulder Design (GS-11)... A-22 Figure A-1-13 Geometric Design Standards For Shoulder Design for Local Rd. & St s (GS-12)... A-23 Figure A-1-14 Geometric Design Standards For Graded Median Design (GS-13)... A-24 Table A-2-1 Clear Zone Distances (In Feet From Edge of Driving Lane)... A-27 Figure A-2-1 Clear Zone (Lateral Offset) Cases... A-28 Figure A-2-1A Clear Zone (Lateral Offset) Cases... A-29 Figure A-2-2 Cost Effective Selection Procedures... A-31 Table A-2-2 Horizontal Curve Adjustments... A-32 Figure A-2-4 Example of a Parallel Embankment Slope Design... A-34 Figure A-3-1 Roundabout Design Elements... A-46 Figure A-3-2 Roundabout Truck Apron Curb Detail... A-47 Table 3-1 Conflict Points... A-58 Figure A-3-3 Diverging Diamond Layout... A-59 Figure A-3-4 Crossover Geometrics... A-64 Figure A-3-5 Offset Distance For Intersection... A-65 Figure A-3-6 Shoulder Design For Ddi... A-65 Figure A-3-7 Diagram Of Expected Oncoming Traffic Versus Actual Oncoming Traffic... A-67 Figure A-3-8 Pedestrians Located To Middle Of Crossroad Between Crossover... A-70 Figure A-3-9 Pedestrians Located To Outside... A-71 Table A-4-1 Geometric Design Criteria... A-87 Table A-5-1 Group A Bicyclists, Urban Section, No Parking... A-113 Table A-5-2 Group A Bicyclists, Urban Section, With Parking... A-114 Table A-5-3 Group A Bicyclists, Rural Section... A-115 Table A-5-4 Group B/C Bicyclists, Urban Section, No Parking... A-116 Table A-5-5 Group B/C Bicyclists, Urban Section, With Parking... A-117 Table A-5-6 Group B/C Bicyclists, Rural Section... A-118 Figure A-5-1 (1) Bike Lanes With On-Street Parking... A-120 Figure A-5-1 (2) Parking Permitted Without Parking Stripe Or Stall... A-121 Figure A-5-2 Typical Bike Lane Cross Sections... A-122 Figure A-5-3 Right Turn Only Lane... A-123 Figure A-5-4 Shared Use Paths... A-126 Figure A-5-5 Cross Section Of Two-Way Shared Use Path... A-127 Figure A-5-6 Physical Barrier For Shared-Use Path... A-128 Table A-5-7 Minimum Radii For Paved Shared Use Paths Based On 20 Lean Angle... A-130 Table A-5-8 Minimum Stopping Sight Distance (Ft.) Descending Grade... A-132 Table A-5-9 Minimum Stopping Sight Distance (Ft.) Ascending Grade... A-132 Table A-5-10 Minimum Length of Crest Vertical Curve (L) Based On Stopping Sight Distance... A-133
7 Figure A-5-8 Minimum Clearance For Line of Sight... A-134 Table A-5-11 Minimum Lateral Clearance For Horizontal Curves... A-134 Figure A Shared Use Path Pavement Structure... A-137 Figure A-5-9 Shared Use Path Transition From Roadway Onto Bridge For Design Speeds >45 MPH..... A-140 Figure A-5-10 Interstate Bicycle Routes 1 and A-142 Figure A Separation Between Active Rail Lines And Paths (RWT)... A-146 Table A Separation Between Active Rail Lines And Paths (RWT)... A-147 Figure A-5-12 Perpendicular CG-12, Type A... A-152 Figure A-5-13 Parallel CG-12, Type B... A-153 Figure A-5-14 Parallel and Perpendicular CG-12, Type C... A-154 Figure A-5-15 Two CG-12 Type B For Each Direction at Intersection... A-155 Figure A-5-17 Single Diagonal Parallel Curb Ramp, CG-12, Type B... A-157 Figure A-5-18 Single Diagonal Parallel Curb Ramp, CG-12, Type B... A-158 Figure A-5-18 Type B Layout Without Buffer Strip... A-159 Figure A-5-19 CG-12, Type B Layout, With Buffer Strip... A-160 Figure A-5-20 Sidewalk Transition From Roadway Onto Bridge For Design Speeds >45 Mph... A-175
15 It is important to note that the Design Speed shown on the project title sheet may not be the same as the Design Speed of the individual geometric elements. Each curve on the project (horizontal and vertical) should show a Design Speed for that particular feature. Although these curves may present isolated instances where the physical roadway dictates the speed of vehicles, they shall not be the sole basis for determining the posted speed limit. It is more appropriate to address these locations by warning signs. It is only where the physical roadway features dictate the speed of the vehicles on extended sections, for a major portion of the roadway that they should be considered as a limiting factor in setting the speed limit. Such limitations in speed due to physical features will become apparent in the speed analysis conducted as part of the engineering study. * For design criteria and instructions on signing roadways with a design speed < 25 mph, see the VDOT Road Design Manual, Appendix B(1), Tables 1 through 3 and AASHTO s Guidelines for Geometric Design of Very Low-Volume Local Roads (ADT < 400). DESIGN WAIVERS Design Waivers are required when deviations from VDOT s design criteria occur. When design criteria meet or exceed AASHTO minimal design but fall short of VDOT s minimal design, a Design Waiver shall be required. Design Waivers will be applicable to all projects regardless of functional classification and funding and shall be documented and approved in accordance with the Design Waiver Request Form LD-448. Please refer to IIM-LD-227 for specific guideline on obtaining design waiver. This Design Waiver Policy is applicable to VDOT owned and maintained roadways only. DESIGN EXCEPTIONS If there are geometric values that are below AASHTO minimum guidelines, the Project Manager/ Design Engineer shall seek to obtain approval of these design exceptions from the State Location and Design Engineer (all projects) and FHWA (if applicable) no later than Public Hearing Stage. Please refer to IIM-LD-227 for specific guideline on obtaining design exceptions. FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION The highway system in Virginia has been functionally classified as Principal Arterial, Minor Arterial, Collector and Local Service. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) utilizes, as presented in the publication: A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, referred to as the AASHTO Green Book, a similar functional classification system. The designations used are: Freeway, Arterial, Collector, and Local Roads and Streets. Relationships between these two classification systems have been generally developed. Principal and Minor Arterial Highways provide direct service between cities and larger towns and are high speed, high volume facilities. Collector highways serve small towns directly, connecting them and local roads to the arterial system. A-8 * Rev. 7/14
16 A-9 BACKGROUND All roadways are classified as to how the facility functions in accordance with Federal guidelines. The Geometric Design Standards in Appendix A of VDOT s Road Design Manual are divided by Functional Classification (FC). The terms Urban and Rural used in the FC do not necessarily coincide with the terms as applied to highway systems in Virginia. Urban - Rural - Urbanized areas within set boundaries having a population of 5,000 or more. This may include areas outside of incorporated cities and towns. Areas not designated as Urban. Includes incorporated cities and towns with populations less than 5,000. VIRGINIA HIGHWAY SYSTEMS Urban - Primary - Roadways within the boundaries of incorporated towns and cities with a population of 3,500 or more plus eight other designated urbanized areas (Bridgewater, Chase City, Elkton, Grottoes, Narrows, Pearisburg, Saltville and Woodstock). The urban program is administered by the Local Assistance Division. Primary Roadways Secondary - All secondary roadways except those in Arlington and Henrico Counties. Projects are administered by the Local Assistance Division. A project classified as Urban in FC may be part of the Interstate, Arterial, Primary, or Secondary System and will be administered as such. This applies also to projects classified as Rural. The Functional Classification block on the title sheet is to show the Geometric Design Standard used. If more than one standard is used in the design, it will be necessary to set up two Functional Classification blocks since in most cases there would be a change in traffic volumes and scope of work. Rev. 7/09
17 A-10 EXAMPLE When the Functional Classification for a project would normally warrant either Geometric Design Standard GS-1, GS-2, GS-3, or GS-4 and Geometric Design Standard GS-5, GS-6, GS-7 or GS-8, respectively, is used then it will be necessary to show the standard used in the design on the title sheet under the Functional Classification. If the normal Geometric standard would be GS-3 and Geometric Standard GS-7 is used, the title sheet is to show: RURAL COLLECTOR-ROLLING-DIVIDED (Urban St d. GS-7 was used) LANE/SHOULDER/PAVEMENT TRANSITIONS, MERGING TAPERS & SPEED CHANGE LENGTHS Lane/shoulder/pavement transitions typically occur where new or reconstructed roadways tie-in to existing roadways. This also applies to where roadways tie-in to bridges. Lane/ pavement transitions, merging tapers and speed change lengths shall meet the minimum length provided by the following equations: For 40 mph or less For 45 mph or greater L = S 2 W 60 L= W x S L = length of transition S = Design Speed W = Width of offset on each side Source: 2009 MUTCD, Section 6, Table 6C-4 For Temporary Merging, Shifting and Shoulder * Tapers see 2009 MUTCD, Section 6, Table 6C-3 and 6C-4. For Passing/ Left Turn lanes on Two-Lane Highway See Appendix F, Figure 3-4. NOTE: A pavement transition length of 1/2L (calculate L by using the applicable formula above) is to be used when establishing project termini for the majority of small bridge replacement and/or major bridge rehabilitation projects when NO horizontal or vertical geometric changes are required to tie into the existing approach alignment. For additional information see Volume 5, Part 2, of the Structure and Bridge Manual. Pavement transition is separate from the length of need for guardrail. Length of need and shoulder prep for guardrail shall be in accordance with the VDOT RDM Appendix A and the Road & Bridge Standards. * Rev. 1/17
18 A-11 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR RURAL PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL SYSTEM (GS-1) TERRAIN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MIN. RADIUS (6) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (1) MIN. WIDTH OF TOTAL SHOULDERS (GRADED & PAVED) FILL W/GR CUT & FILL (2) PAVED SHOULDER WIDTH LT. RT. (3) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (4) SLOPE NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES INTERSTATES FREEWAYS OTHER PRINCIPAL ARTERIALS ** 10 ** Min. Min. 12 CS-4B LEVEL ROLLING CS-4B MOUNTAINOUS CS-4E LEVEL CS-4/ CS-4B ROLLING CS-4/ CS-4E MOUNTAINOUS CS-3/ CS-3B See Footnote (5) GENERAL NOTES Interstates - All new and major reconstructed Interstate facilities will have a 75 mph design speed unless a lower design speed is approved by the State Location and Design Engineer and FHWA. Freeways - A design speed of 75 mph should be used for Rural Freeways. Where terrain is mountainous, a design speed of 60 mph or 50 mph which is consistent with driver expectancy, may be used. Other Principal Arterials - A design speed of 40 to 70 mph should be used depending on terrain, driver expectancy and whether the design is constructed on new location or reconstruction of an existing facility. An important safety consideration in the selection of one of the lower design speeds in each range is to have a properly posted speed limit which should be enforced during off peak hours. Incorporated towns or other built-up areas, Urban Standard GS-5 may be used for design. Built-up is where there is sufficient development along the roadway that justifies a need to channelize traffic into and out of properties utilizing curb and gutter. Standard TC-5.11R superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used for all Rural Principal Arterials. Clear Zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. If medians are included, see Section 2E-3 of Chapter 2E of the Road Design Manual. For additional information on roadway widths and maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.2, page 7-4, Tables 7-2 and Section 7.2.3, page 7-5, Table 7-3; for Freeways, see Chapter 8, Section 8.2.7, page 8-4, Table 8-1. FOOTNOTES (1) Graded Shoulders include the paved portion. Shoulder widths shown are for right shoulders and independently graded median shoulders. No additional width is necessary for guardrail situations. For 4-lane non-interstates (2 lanes in each direction) with independently graded median shoulders, an 8' graded median shoulder will be provided. For 6 or more lanes (Non-Interstate and Interstate), the graded median shoulder shall be the same as right graded shoulder. On Interstates / Freeways, if truck traffic exceeds 250 DDHV, a wider graded shoulder should be considered (14 for fills & cuts and 18 with guardrail). (2) When the mainline is 6 or more lanes, the left paved shoulder width should be the same as the right paved shoulder. On Interstates / Freeways, if truck traffic exceeds 250 DDHV, a wider right paved shoulder should be considered (12'). ** AASHTO Minimum, See Interstate Guide. (3) Ditch slopes to be 6:1-10' and 12' widths and 4:1-6' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (4) Additional or modified slope criteria to apply where shown on typical sections. (5) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (6) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see Section 3.2.2, page 3-5, Tables 3-2 of the AASHTO Green Book. FIGURE A Rev. 7/17
19 TRAFFIC VOLUME (1) ADT OVER 2000 (1) ADT 1500 TO 2000 (1) ADT 400 TO 1500 CURRENT ADT UNDER 400 A-12 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR RURAL MINOR ARTERIAL SYSTEM (GS-2) TERRAIN LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MIN. RADIUS (8) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE GENERAL NOTES (2) MIN. WIDTH OF LANE Rural Minor Arterials are designed with design speeds of 50 to 70 MPH, dependent on terrain features and traffic volumes, and occasionally may be as low as 40 MPH in mountainous terrain. In incorporated towns or other built-up areas, Urban Standard GS-6 may be used for design. Built-up is where there is sufficient development along the roadway that justifies a need to channelize traffic into and out of properties utilizing curb and gutter. Standard TC-5.11R superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used for Rural Minor Arterials. If medians are included, see Section 2E-3 of Chapter 2E of the Road Design Manual. Clear Zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. For Passing Sight Distance Criteria, see AASHTO Green Book, Section 3.2.4, page 3-8. For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section 7.3.2, page 7-29, Table 7-2. FOOTNOTES (1) Use Design Year ADT for new construction and reconstruction projects (not applicable to R.R.R. projects or roads with ADT < 400) in accordance with Road Design Manual, Chapter 2A, REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC DATA and Form LD (3) MIN. WIDTH OF TOTAL SHOULDERS (GRADED & PAVED) FILL W/GR CUT & FILL (4) PAVED SHOULDER WIDTH LT. RT FIGURE A-1-2 (5) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (6) SLOPE CS-4, CS-4A OR CS- 4C CS-3/ CS-3B CS-4, CS-4A OR CS- 4C CS-3/ CS-3B CS-4, CS-4A OR CS- 4C CS-3/ CS-3B CS-4, CS-4A OR CS- 4C CS-3/ CS-3B NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES See Footnote (7) (2) Lane width to be 12' at all interchange locations. For projects not on the National Highway System, width of traveled way may remain at 22' on reconstructed highways where alignment and safety records are satisfactory. (3) When the mainline is 4 lanes (2 lanes in each direction) and a graded median is used, the width of the graded median shoulder is to be 8'. (4) When the mainline is 4 lanes (2 lanes in each direction) a minimum 8' wide paved shoulder shall be provided on the right of traffic and a minimum 4' wide paved shoulder on the median side. Where the mainline is 6 or more lanes, both right and median paved shoulders shall be 8' in width. For additional guidance on shoulder widths/reductions, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section , page (5) Ditch slopes to be 6:1-10' width, 4:1-6' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (6) Additional or modified slope criteria to be applied where shown on typical sections. (7) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (8) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-5, Table 3-2. Rev. 1/17
20 A-13 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR RURAL COLLECTOR ROAD SYSTEM (GS-3) TRAFFIC VOLUME (1) ADT OVER 2000 (1) ADT 1500 TO 2000 (1) ADT 400 TO 1500 CURRENT ADT UNDER 400 TERRAIN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MIN. RADIUS (8) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (2) MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (3) (4) MINIMUM WIDTH OF GRADED SHOULDERS FILL W/GR CUT & FILL LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING 11 (9) (9) MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS (5) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (6) SLOPE 10 CS-4, CS-4A OR CS-4C 6 CS-3 / CS-3B 6 CS-4, CS-4A OR CS-4C 4 CS-3/ CS-3B 6 CS-4, CS-4A OR CS-4C 4 CS-3/ CS-3B 6 4 CS-1 NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES See Footnote (7) GENERAL NOTES Geometric design features should be consistent with a design speed appropriate for the conditions. Low design speeds (45 MPH and below) are generally applicable to highways with curvilinear alignment in rolling or mountainous terrain and where environmental conditions dictate. High speed design (50 MPH and above) are generally applicable to highways in level terrain or where other environmental conditions are favorable. Intermediate design speeds would be appropriate where terrain and other environmental conditions are a combination of those described for low and high design speed. The designer should strive for higher values than the minimum where conditions of safety dictate and costs can be supported. In incorporated towns or other built-up areas, Urban Standard GS-7 may be used. Built-up is where there is sufficient development along the roadway that justifies a need to channelize traffic into and out of properties utilizing curb and gutter. Standard TC-5.11R superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used for Rural Collectors. Clear zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. For Passing Sight Distance Criteria see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.4, page 3-8. For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 6, Section 6.2.1, page 6.2, Table 6-2. FOOTNOTES (1) Use Design Year ADT for new construction and reconstruction projects (not applicable to R.R.R. projects or roads with ADT < 400) in accordance with Road Design Manual, Chapter 2A, REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC DATA and Form LD-104. (2) Lane width to be 12' at all interchange locations. (3) Provide 4' wide paved shoulders when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage. Provide 5 wide paved shoulder when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage and the route is an AASHTO approved U.S. Bicycle Route (1, 76 or 176) or designated as a bicycle route on a locally adopted transportation plan. All shoulders not being paved will have the mainline pavement structure extended 1' on the same slope into the shoulder to eliminate raveling at the pavement edge. For additional guidance on shoulder widths, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 6, Section 6.2.2, page 6-5. (4) When the mainline is four lanes with ADT >2000, a minimum paved shoulder width of 6' right of traffic and 3' left of traffic will be provided. (5) Ditch slopes to be 6:1-10' width, 4:1-6' width, 3:1-4' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (6) Additional or modified slope criteria to be applied where shown on typical sections. (7) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (8) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. (9) Shoulder width may be reduced to 4 (8 with guardrail) where appropriate as long as a minimum roadway width of 30 is maintained. See AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 6, Section 6.2.2, page 6-6, Table 6-5. FIGURE A Rev. 1/17
21 A-14 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR RURAL LOCAL ROAD SYSTEM (GS-4) TRAFFIC VOLUME TERRAIN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MIN. RADIUS (9) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (2) MINIMUM WIDTH OF SURFACING OR PAVEMENT (3) (4) (5) MINIMUM WIDTH OF GRADED SHOULDERS FILL W/GR CUT& FILL (6) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (7) SLOPE NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES LEVEL CS-4, 4A / 4C (1) ADT OVER 2000 ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS CS-3, 3A / 3B LEVEL CS-4, 4A /4C (1) ADT 1500 TO 2000 (1) ADT 400 TO 1500 ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS CS-3, 3A / 3B CS-1 See Footnote (8) CURRENT ADT UNDER 400 LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS CS-1 GENERAL NOTES Low design speeds are generally applicable to roads with winding alignment in rolling or mountainous terrain where environmental conditions dictate. High design speeds are generally applicable to roads in level terrain or where other environmental conditions are favorable. (2) Lane width to be 12' at all interchange locations. (3) In mountainous terrain or sections with heavy earthwork, the graded width of shoulder in cuts may be decreased by 2', but in no case shall the cut shoulder width be less than 2'. Intermediate design speeds would be appropriate where terrain and other environmental conditions are a combination of those described for low and high speed. For minimum design speeds for 250 ADT and under, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.1, page 5-2, Table 5-1. Standard TC-5.11R superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used. In incorporated towns or other built-up areas, Urban Standard GS-8 may be used.. Built-up is where there is sufficient development along the roadway that justifies a need to channelize traffic into and out of properties utilizing curb and gutter. For Passing Sight Distance Criteria See AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.4, page 3-8. For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.1, page 5-3, Table 5-2. For Recreational Access Road design standards, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.4.2, page FOOTNOTES (1) Use Design Year ADT for new construction and reconstruction projects in accordance with Road Design Manual, Chapter 2A, REQUEST FOR TRAFFIC DATA and Form LD-104. For RRR projects or roads with ADT 400, See Road Design Manual, Appendix A, GUIDELINES FOR RRR PROJECTS. FIGURE A (4) Minimum shoulder slope shall be 8% on low side and same slope as pavement on high side (See St d. GS-12). (5) Provide 4' wide paved shoulders when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage. Provide 5 wide paved shoulder when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage and the route is an AASHTO approved U.S. Bicycle Route (1, 76 or 176) or designated as a bicycle route on a locally adopted transportation plan All shoulders not being paved will have the mainline pavement structure extended 1' on the same slope into the shoulder to eliminate raveling at the pavement edge. For additional guidance on shoulder widths, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.2, page 5-5. (6) Ditch slopes to be 4:1-6' width, 3:1-4' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (7) Additional or modified slope criteria to be applied where shown on typical sections. (8) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (9) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. Rev. 1/17
22 A-15 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR URBAN PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL SYSTEM (GS-5) DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS (13) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (1) MIN. WIDTH OF TOTAL SHOULDERS (GRADED & PAVED) (2) PAVED SHOULDER WIDTH (3) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (4) SLOPE NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES U ULS FILL W/GR FILL & CUT LT. RT. INTERSTATES FREEWAYS OTHER PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL WITH SHOULDER DESIGN ** 10 ** CS-4 OR 4B MIN. MIN. USE TC R SEE CS-4 OR 4B GS CS-4 OR 4E (12) (5) (6) (12) CS-4 OR 4E CS-3 OR 3B See Footnote (7) DESIGN SPEED (MPH) U MINIMUM RADIUS ULS (13) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (8) STANDARD CURB & CURB & GUTTER BUFFER STRIP WIDTH (9) MINIMUM SIDEWALK WIDTH (10) SLOPE OTHER PRINCIPAL ARTERIAL WITH CURB & GUTTER GS (12) (5) (6) (12) CG-3 / CG-7 (14) CG-2 / CG-6 (11) 5 2:1 GENERAL NOTES Freeways - Urban Freeways should accommodate desired safe operating speeds during non-peak hours, but should not be so high as to exceed the limits of prudent construction, right of way and socioeconomic costs due to the large proportion of vehicles which are accommodated during periods of peak flow when lower speeds are necessary. The design speeds for Freeways shall not be less than 50 mph. On many Urban Freeways, particularly in suburban areas, a design speed of 60 mph or higher can be provided with little additional cost above that required for 50 mph design speed. The corridor of the mainline may be relatively straight and the character and location of interchanges may permit high speed design. Under these conditions, a design speed of 70 mph is most desirable because the higher design speeds are closely related to the overall quality and safety of the facility. Other Principal Arterials - Design speeds for Urban Arterials generally range from 40 to 60 mph, and occasionally may be as low as 30 mph. The lower (40 mph and below) speeds apply in the central business district and intermediate areas. The higher speeds are more applicable to the outlying business and developing areas. Standard TC-5.11R (Rural) superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used for ALL Interstates, Freeways (50 70 mph) and for Other Principal Arterials with a design speed of 60 mph. For minimum radius, See GS-1. Standard TC-5.11U (Urban) superelevation based on 4% maximum is to be used on Other Principal Arterials with a design speed of 50 mph and less. Standard TC-5.11ULS (Urban Low Speed) superelevation based on 2% maximum is may be used on Other Principal Arterials with a design speed less than or equal to 45 mph. Clear Zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. If medians are included, see Section 2E-3 of Chapter 2E of the Road Design Manual. For minimum widths for roadway & right of way used within incorporated cities or towns to qualify for maintenance funds see Code of Va. Section For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section 7.3.3, page 7-29, Table 7-4, for Freeways, see Chapter 8, Section 8.2.1, page 8-4, Table 8-1. Rev. 7/17 FOOTNOTES (1) Shoulder widths shown are for right shoulders and independently graded median shoulders. An 8' graded median shoulder will be provided when the mainline is 4 lanes (2 lanes in each direction). For 6 or more lanes (Non-Interstate and Interstate), the median shoulder provided will be the same as that shown for independent grading. On Interstates / Freeways, if truck traffic exceeds 250 DDHV, a wider graded shoulder should be considered (14 for fills & cuts and 18 with guardrail). (2) When the mainline is 6 or more lanes, the left paved shoulder width should be the same as the right paved shoulder. On Interstates / Freeways, if truck traffic exceeds 250 DDHV, a wider right paved shoulder should be considered (12 ). ** AASHTO Minimum, See Interstate Guide. (3) Ditch slopes to be 6:1-10' and 12' widths and 4:1-6' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (4) Additional or modified slope criteria apply where shown on typical sections. (5) Minimum lane widths to be 12 at all interchange locations. (6) Where heavy truck volume (equal to or greater than 10%) or bus traffic is anticipated, an additional 1 foot width should be considered. (7) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (8) Or equivalent City or Town design. (9) Width of 8' or more may be needed in commercial areas. (10) 3:1 and flatter slopes shall be used when the right of way is behind the sidewalk (or sidewalk space) in residential or other areas where slopes will be maintained by the property owner. (11) For buffer strip widths see Appendix A, Section A-5 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facility Guidelines. (12) Situations having restrictions on trucks may allow the use of lanes 1 foot less in width. (13) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. For Intersection sight distance requirements see Append. F, Table 2-5. (14) Where bicycle accommodation is next to curb or curb and gutter or guardrail is required, mountable curb (CG-3) or mountable curb and gutter (CG-7) shall be used for design speeds of 45 mph and below. FIGURE A - 1-5
23 A-16 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR URBAN MINOR ARTERIAL STREET SYSTEM (GS-6) STREETS WITH CURB & GUTTER (13) STREETS WITH SHOULDER DESIGN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS (12) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE U ULS DESIGN SPEED (MPH) U MINIMUM RADIUS ULS (12) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (11) MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (3) STANDARD CURB & CURB & GUTTER 12 CG-3 / CG-7 (1) (2) 11 (11) MIN. WIDTH OF LANE (1) (2) GENERAL NOTES Design Speeds for Urban Arterials generally range from 40 to 60 mph and occasionally may be as low as 30 mph. The lower (40 mph and below) speeds apply in the central business district and intermediate areas. The higher speeds are more applicable to the outlying business and developing areas. Standard TC-5.11R (Rural) superelevation based on 8% maximum is to be used for 60 mph design speed. Standard TC-5.11U (Urban) superelevation based on 4% maximum is to be used for design speeds less than 60 mph. Standard TC-5.11ULS (Urban Low Speed) superelevation based on 2% maximum may be used for design speeds less than or equal to 45 mph. Clear Zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. If medians are included, see Section 2E-3 of Chapter 2E of the Road Design Manual. For minimum widths for roadway and right of way used within incorporated cities or towns to qualify for maintenance funds see Code of Virginia Section For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section 7.3.3, page 7-29, Table 7-4. Rev. 1/17 (14) CG-2 / CG-6 (7) (13) MINIMUM WIDTH GRADED SHOULDER FILL W/GR BUFFER STRIP WIDTH (4) MINIMUM SIDEWALK WIDTH (5) SLOPE (10) 5 2:1 (8) MINIMUM PAVED SHOULDER WIDTH CUT & FILL LT. RT (9) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE 10 6 (5) SLOPE 2:1 FOOTNOTES NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES See Footnote (6) (1) Lane width to be 12' at all interchanges. (2) Where heavy truck volume (equal to or greater than 10%) or bus traffic is anticipated, an additional 1 foot width should be considered. (3) Or equivalent City or Town design. (4) A width of 8' or more may be needed in commercial areas. (5) Slopes 3:1 and flatter shall be used when the right of way is behind the sidewalk (or sidewalk space) in residential or other areas where slopes will be maintained by the property owner. (6) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (7) If graded median is used, the width of median shoulder is to be 8' (See Standard GS-11 for shoulder design). (8) When the mainline is 4 lanes (2 lanes in each direction) a minimum 8' wide paved shoulder will be provided on the right of traffic and a minimum 4' wide paved shoulder on the median side. Where the mainline is 6 or more lanes, both right and median paved shoulders will be 8' in width. For additional guidance on shoulder widths/reductions, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section , page (9) Ditch slope to be 6:1-10' width and 4:1-6' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (10) For buffer strip widths see Appendix A, Section A-5 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facility Guidelines. (11) Situations having restrictions on trucks may allow the use of lanes 1 foot less in width. (12) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. (13) For information on reduced shoulder widths, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 7, Section 7.2.3, page 7-5, Table 7-3. (14) Where bicycle accommodation is next to curb or curb and gutter or guardrail is required, mountable curb (CG-3) or mountable curb and gutter (CG-7) shall be used for design speeds of 45 mph and below. FIGURE A - 1-6
24 A-17 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR URBAN COLLECTOR STREET SYSTEM (GS-7) STREET WITH CURB & GUTTER (11) STREET WITH SHOULDER DESIGN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS U ULS (10) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (13) MINIMUM WIDTH OF LANE (3) STANDARD CURB & CURB & GUTTER CG-3 / CG DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS U ULS (10) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (1) (2) (12) 11 (13) MINIMUM WIDTH OF LANE (1) (2) (12) 11 (14) CG-2 / CG-6 FILL W/GR (7) (11) MINIMUM WIDTH OF GRADED SHOULDERS BUFFER STRIP WIDTH (4) MINIMUM SIDEWALK WIDTH (5) SLOPE (9) 5 2:1 CUT& FILL 12 8 (6) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE 6 4 (5) SLOPE 2:1 NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES See Footnote (8) GENERAL NOTES A minimum design speed of 30 mph or higher should be used for collector streets, depending on available right of way, terrain, adjacent development and other area controls. In the typical street grid, the closely spaced intersections usually limit vehicular speeds and thus make the effect of design speed of less significance. Nevertheless, the longer sight distances and curve radii commensurate with design speeds higher than the value indicated result in safer highways and should be used to the extent practicable. Standard TC-5.11U (Urban) superelevation based on 4% maximum. Standard TC-5.11ULS (Urban-Low Speed) superelevation based on 2% maximum may be used with a design speed of 45 mph or less. For minimum widths for roadway and right of way used within incorporated cities or towns to qualify for maintenance funds see Code of Virginia Section Clear zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 6, Section 6.3.1, page 6-12, Table 6-8. FOOTNOTES (1) Lane width should be 12 in industrial areas. Where Right of Way is restricted 11 lanes may be used in industrial areas. (See AASHTO Green Book Chapter6, Section and 6.3.2, page 6-6, Table 6-6). (2) Lane width to be 12' at all interchange locations. (3) Or equivalent City or Town Design. (4) 8' or more may be needed in commercial areas. (5) 3:1 and flatter slopes shall be used when right of way is behind the sidewalk (or sidewalk space) in residential or other areas where the slopes will be maintained by the property owner. (6) Ditch slopes to be 4:1-6' width and 3:1-4' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (7) When Design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with greater than 10% total truck and bus usage: Provide 4 wide paved shoulders when the graded shoulder is 5 wide or greater. Provide 5 wide paved shoulder when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage and the route is an AASHTO approved U.S. Bicycle Route (1, 76 or 176) or designated as a bicycle route on a locally adopted transportation plan. All shoulders not being paved will have the mainline pavement structure extended 1, on the same slope, into the shoulder to eliminate raveling at the pavement edge. (See Standard GS-11 for shoulder design). (8) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (9) For buffer strip widths see Appendix A, Section A-5 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facility Guidelines. (10) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO, Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. (11) Where shoulders are provided, roadway widths in accordance with Table 6-5 should be considered. (See AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 6, Section 6.3.2, page 6-13.) (12) Where heavy truck volume (equal to or greater than 10%) or bus traffic is anticipated, an additional 1 foot width should be considered. (13) Situations having restrictions on trucks may allow the use of lanes 1 foot less in width. (14) Where bicycle accommodation is next to curb or curb and gutter or guardrail is required, mountable curb (CG-3) or mountable curb and gutter (CG-7) shall be used for design speeds of 45 mph and below. FIGURE A Rev. 1/17
25 A-18 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR URBAN LOCAL STREET SYSTEM (GS-8) STREET WITH CURB & GUTTER DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS U ULS (1) MAXIMUM PERCENT OF GRADE (10) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (2) MINIMUM WIDTH OF LANE (3) STANDARD CURB & CURB & GUTTER BUFFER STRIP WIDTH (5) MINIMUM SIDEWALK WIDTH (6) SLOPE 10 CG-2 / CG-6 (4) 5 2:1 NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES (11) STREET WITH SHOULDER DESIGN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS U ULS (1) MAXIMUM PERCENT OF GRADE (10) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (2) MINIMUM WIDTH OF LANE (7) (11) MINIMUM WIDTH OF GRADED SHOULDERS FILL W/GR CUT& FILL (8) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE SLOPE :1 See Footnote (9) GENERAL NOTES Design Speed is not a major factor for local streets. For consistency in design elements, design speeds ranging from 20 to 30 mph may be used, depending on available right of way, terrain, adjacent development and other area controls. In the typical street grid, the closely spaced intersections usually limit vehicular speeds, making the effect of a design speed of less significance. Design speeds exceeding 30 mph in residential areas may require longer sight distances and increased curve radii, which would be contrary to the basic function of a local street. Standard TC-5.11U (Urban) superelevation based on 4% maximum. Standard TC-5.11ULS (Urban Low Speed) superelevation based on 2% maximum may be used with a design speed of 45 mph or less. For minimum widths for roadway and right of way used within incorporated cities or towns to qualify for maintenance funds see Code of Virginia Section FOOTNOTES (1) Grades in commercial and industrial areas should be less than 8 percent; desirably, less than 5 percent. For maximum grades relative to terrain and design speed, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.1, page 5-5, Table 5-4. (2) Where feasible, lanes should be 11' wide and in industrial areas should be 12' wide; however, where available or attainable right of way imposes severe limitations, 9' lanes can be used in residential areas and 11' lanes can be used in industrial areas. (3) Or equivalent City or Town design. (4) For buffer strip widths see Appendix A, Section A-5 Bicycle & Pedestrian Facility Guidelines. (5) A width of 8' or more may be needed in commercial areas. (6) 3:1 and flatter slopes shall be used when the right of way is behind the sidewalk (or sidewalk space) in residential or other areas where slopes will be maintained by the property owner. (7) When Design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with greater than 5% total truck and bus usage: Provide 4 wide paved shoulders when the graded shoulder is 5 wide or greater. Provide 5 wide paved shoulder when design year ADT exceeds 2000 VPD, with 5% or more truck and bus usage and the route is an AASHTO approved U.S. Bicycle Route (1, 76 or 176) or designated as a bicycle route on a locally adopted transportation plan. All shoulders not being paved will have the mainline pavement structure extended 1, on the same slope, into the shoulder to eliminate raveling at the pavement edge (See Standard GS-12 for shoulder design). (8) Ditch slopes to be 3:1-4' width. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (9) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (10) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. (11) For information on reduced shoulder widths, see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.2.2, page 5-6, Table 5-5. FIGURE A Rev. 1/17
26 A-19 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SERVICE ROADS (GS-9) (1) DEAD END SERVICE ROADS UNDER 25 VPD PROPERTIES SERVED 1 DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (2) MINIMUM TRAVEL WAY WIDTH 12 MINIMUM WIDTH OF SHOULDER FILL W/GR CUT & FILL (3) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE SLOPE (4) OVER GENERAL NOTES FOOTNOTES The minimum design speed for service roads should be 20 mph except for one lane service roads serving one property which may have a minimum design speed of 10 mph. Standard TC-5.11R superelevation is based on 8% maximum. For Passing Sight Distance Criteria See AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.4, page 3-8. RELATIONSHIP OF MAXIMUM GRADES TO DESIGN SPEED (1) For through service roads and dead end service roads with over 25 VPD, use Standards shown for Local Roads and Streets (Also See Standard GS- 12). (2) Under adverse conditions, intermittent shoulder sections or turnouts for passing may be required (see AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 5, Section 5.4.2, page 5-29). (3) Ditch slope to be 3:1. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (4) Slopes to be same as mainline when service road is parallel to or otherwise visible from the mainline. For other cases, slopes should be in accordance with standards for Local Roads and Streets. TYPE OF TERRAIN DESIGN SPEED (MPH) GRADES (PERCENT) LEVEL ROLLING MOUNTAINOUS FIGURE A Rev. 1/17
27 A-20 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR INTERCHANGE RAMPS (GS-R) INTERCHANGE RAMPS AUXILIARY LANES (ACCEL/ DECEL) RAMP DESIGN SPEED (MPH) MINIMUM RADIUS (6) MINIMUM STOPPING SIGHT DISTANCE (1) MINIMUM RAMP PAVEMENT WIDTHS FILL W/GR MINIMUM WIDTH OF SHOULDER LEFT OF TRAFFIC GRADED WIDTH CUT & FILL (2) (3) PAVED WIDTH RIGHT OF TRAFFIC (7) GRADED WIDTH (2) (3) PAVED WIDTH (5) MINIMUM WIDTH OF DITCH FRONT SLOPE (8) GEOMETRIC DESIGN ELEMENTS ARE TO BE THE SAME AS MAINLINE THROUGH LANES. SEE APPLICABLE FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION GS STANDARDS. NEW AND RECONSTRUCTED MINIMUM BRIDGE WIDTHS AND VERTICAL CLEARANCES See Footnote (4) AUXILARY LANE SHOULDER WIDTHS ARE TO BE THE SAME AS MAINLINE THROUGH LANES GENERAL NOTES The determination of the proper design speed for any particular ramp should be made using guidelines shown in the AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 10, Section , page 10-89, Table Standard TC-5.11R is to be used. Maximum ramp superelevation is to be 8%. Clear Zone and Recoverable Area information can be found in Appendix A, Section A-2 of the Road Design Manual. RELATIONSHIP OF MAXIMUM GRADES TO DESIGN SPEED DESIGN SPEED (MPH) GRADES (PERCENT) Where topographic conditions dictate, grades steeper than those above may be used. One-way descending gradients on ramps should be held to the same general maximums, but in special cases they may be 2 percent greater. However, downgrades with sharp horizontal curvature and significant heavy truck or bus traffic should be limited to 4 percent. See page of the AASHTO Green Book. See the AASHTO Green Book Chapter 10, Section , page for further guidance on ramp design. FOOTNOTES (1) Interchange ramp widths shown are for one lane traffic. For two lane or other conditions see Table 3-29 in the AASHTO Green Book. (2) Paved shoulder widths on ramps with a design speed of 40 mph or less may be reduced to 6 right, or 3 left, when justifiable. However, the sum of the right and left shoulder shall not be less than 10. See AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 10, Section , page (3) On ramps with a radius of less than 500', consider (depending on degree of curvature, percent of trucks) the extension of the full pavement structure (on the same slope as the pavement) through the inside paved shoulder area to eliminate raveling of the pavement edge. (4) See Manual of the Structure and Bridge Division Volume V Part 2 Design Aids Chapter 6 Geometrics. (5) Ditch slopes to be 6:1. A hydraulic analysis is necessary to determine actual depth requirement. (6) For additional information on sight distance requirements on grades of 3 percent or greater, see the AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 3, Section 3.2.2, page 3-3, Table 3-2. (7) Graded shoulder width to be increased additional 4 when guardrail is required. (8) See 2011 AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 10, Section for further guidance on Auxiliary Lanes. FIGURE A Rev. 1/17
28 A-21 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR TEMPORARY DIVERSION (GS-10) FIGURE A * * Rev. 7/17
29 A-22 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SHOULDER DESIGN (GS-11) FIGURE A * * Rev. 7/14
30 A-23 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SHOULDER DESIGN FOR LOCAL ROAD AND STREETS (GS-12) FIGURE A * * Added 1/12
31 A-24 GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS FOR GRADED MEDIAN DESIGN (GS-13) FIGURE A * * Added 1/12
32 A-25 SECTION A-2-CLEAR ZONE/LATERAL OFFSET GUIDELINES INTRODUCTION The term clear zone is used to describe the unobstructed, traversable area provided beyond the edge of the through traveled way for the recovery of an errant vehicle. The clear zone includes shoulders, bike lanes, parking lanes and auxiliary lanes (except those auxiliary lanes that function like through lanes). Clear zone distances are based upon traffic volume, speed, and embankment slopes. A recoverable area is to be provided that is clear of all unyielding obstacles such as trees, sign supports, utility poles, light poles, or any other fixed objects that might severely damage an out-of-control vehicle (See 2011 AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, Chapter 5). Determining a practical clear zone often involves a series of compromises between absolute safety, engineering judgment, environmental and economic constraints. Additional information is available in AASHTO s Roadside Design Guide. ROADWAYS WITH SHOULDERS In rural environments, where speeds are higher and constraints are fewer, a clear zone appropriate for the traffic volume, design speed, and facility type should be provided in accordance with the AASHTO Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3. These values also are applicable for freeways and other controlled-access facilities in urban areas. For an example, see Figure A-2-1, Case 1. Whenever adequate right of way is available, urban projects should be designed with shoulders in lieu of curbs (unless city ordinances require otherwise) and clear zone widths should be consistent with the requirements for roadways with shoulders. (See 2011 * AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, Chapter 7). The justification for providing a curb is to be documented in the project file (e.g. Preliminary Field Inspection Report, recommendation from Right of Way and Utilities Division, etc.). Roadways * with paved shoulders should provide as much clear zone as practical in accordance with Table A-2-1, which is from the AASHTO Roadside Design Guide. (See 2011 AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, Chapters 4, 5 and 6). For an example, see Figure A-2-1, Case 1. On projects such as RRR, intersection improvements, etc. recoverable areas are not always practical due to the intent of the project to provide minimal improvements and extend the service life of the existing roadway for a fraction of the costs of reconstruction. However, as much clear zone as practical should be provided. Sources: TRB Special Report 214, Designing Safer Roads / 2011 AASHTO A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets, Chapters 4-7 / 2011 AASHTO Roadside Design Guide. * Rev. 7/16
33 A-26 ROADWAYS WITH CURB For urban arterials and other non-controlled access facilities in an urban environment, right of way is often extremely limited. In many cases, establishing a clear zone using the guidance in the Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3 is not practical. These urban environments are often characterized by sidewalks beginning at the back of the curb, enclosed drainage, numerous fixed objects (e.g. signs, utility poles, luminaire supports, fire hydrants, sidewalk furniture), and frequent traffic stops. These environments typically have lower operating speeds and in many instances, on-street parking. In these environments, a lateral offset to vertical obstructions (e.g. signs, utility poles, luminaire supports, fire hydrants), including breakaway devices, is needed to accommodate motorist operating on the highway. When providing clear zone in accordance with the Roadside Design Guide in an urban area is not practical, consideration should be given to establishing as much lateral offset as practical, or incorporating as many clear-zone concepts as practical, such as removing roadside objects or making them crashworthy. Ideally, appurtenances (e.g. benches, trash barrels, bicycle racks) should be located as far away as practical, but at least 4 feet from the face of curb. Breakaway designs shall be used for poles and appurtenances located less than 6 feet from the face of curb. See Figure A-2-1, Case 2 and* Figure A-2-1A, Case 3 and Case 4. Although the clear roadway concept is still the goal, many compromises are likely in urban or restricted environments. A minimum lateral offset of 1.5 feet shall be provided beyond the face of curb, with 3 feet minimum at intersections and driveway openings (10 15 recommended, See Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 10). Note that this minimum lateral offset does not meet clear zone criteria but simply enables normal facility operations by providing clearance for turning trucks, etc. Consideration should be given to providing more than the minimum lateral offset to obstructions by placing fixed objects behind the sidewalk or sidewalk space. See Figure A-2-1, Case 2 and Figure A-2-1A, Case 3. Note that curb is applicable to roadways with design speeds < 45 mph and should be used on roadways > 45 mph only in special situations. These situations may include, but are not limited to drainage considerations, a need for access control and right of way restrictions. When a vertical drop-off or other hazard (see Section I-3, Guardrail Warrants) is located within 6 of the face of curb, guardrail should be considered. For instructions on the placement of guardrail adjacent to curb, see Section I-3, Guardrail Installation in Urban Settings. Contact the Location and Design Standards and Special Design Section for details. Any fixed objects (signs, luminaire supports, large trees, etc.) located within a curbed median should not be located less than 6 from the face of curb. See Figure A-2-1A, Case 4. Source: AASHTO Green Book, Chapter 4, Section 4.7.1, page 4-16 / Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 10 * Rev. 1/17
34 A-27 DESIGN SPEED DESIGN ADT 6:1 or Flatter FORESLOPES 5:1 to 4:1 BACKSLOPES 3:1 3:1 5:1 to 4:1 6:1 or Flatter 40 mph or less Under 750c Over b b b b mph Under 750c Over b b b b mph Under 750c Over a b b b b mph Under 750c Over a a 32-40a 36-44a b b b b d mph Under 750c Over a 30-34a a 34-42a 38-46a b b b b Source: AASHTO Roadside Design Guide, Chapter TABLE A-2-1 CLEAR ZONE DISTANCES (IN FEET FROM EDGE OF DRIVING LANE) * a. When a site specific investigation indicates a high probability of continuing crashes, or when such occurrences are indicated by crash history, the designer may provide clear zone distances greater than the clear zone shown in Table A-2-1. Clear zones may be limited to 30 feet for practicality and to provide a consistent roadway template if previous experience with similar projects or designs indicates satisfactory performance. b. Because recovery is less likely on the unshielded, traversable 3:1 fill slopes, fixed objects should not be present in the vicinity of the toe of these slopes. Recovery of high speed vehicles that encroach beyond the edge of shoulder may be expected to occur beyond the toe of slope. Determination of the width of the recovery area at the toe of slope should take into consideration right of way availability, environmental concerns, economic factors, safety needs, and crash histories. Also, the distance between the edge of the travel lane and the beginning of the 3:1 slope should influence the recovery area provided at the toe of slope. While the application may be limited by several factors, the fill slope parameters which may enter into determining a maximum desirable recovery area are illustrated in FIGURE A-2-4. A 10 foot recovery area at the toe of slope should be provided for all traversable, non-recoverable fill slopes. c. For roadways with low volumes it may not be practical to apply even the minimum values found in Table A-2-1. Refer to Chapter 12 for additional considerations for low volume roadways and Chapter 10 for additional guidance for urban applications in AASHTO Roadside Design Guide. d. When design speeds are greater than the values provided, the designer may provide clear zone distances greater than those shown in Table A-2-1. * Rev. 1/16
35 A-28 CASE 1- SHOULDER AND DITCH CASE 2 CURB WITH BUFFER STRIP AND SIDEWALK FIGURE A-2-1 Rev. 7/16
36 A-29 CASE 3 CURB SIDEWALK OR SIDEWALK WITH SPACE CASE 4 CURBED MEDIAN FIGURE A-2-1A Rev. 7/16
37 A-30 CLEAR ZONE COST-EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS For projects where the clear zone widths from the AASHTO Roadside Design Guide are under consideration, Freeways; Rural and Urban Arterials (with shoulders); and Rural and Urban Collectors (with shoulders) with design speeds of 50 mph or greater and with a design year ADT greater than 2000, an early cost-effectiveness analysis is required to determine the feasibility of providing the recoverable areas to meet the clear zone requirements shown in TABLE A-2-1. This analysis should be done during the preliminary plan development process and should involve determining the additional construction and R/W costs to provide the desired clear zone. Refer to AASHTO s Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 2, for Economic Evaluation of Roadside Safety. * Any other procedure which will provide this cost is acceptable as long as it is documented in the project files. After the additional cost to provide the recoverable area is determined, it should be compared to the estimated accident cost without the recoverable area. This cost comparison along with good engineering judgment should be used to determine the feasibility of providing the recoverable areas through the project and should be documented on the Field Review and Scoping Report PM-100. Prior to establishing the additional construction and R/W cost estimate, the developed areas that would involve heavy R/W damages and/or relocations or environmental restrictions such as park properties, historic areas or wetlands should be noted and where practicable horizontal and vertical alignment adjustments are to be made to provide the desired recoverable areas and clear zones. In these situations alternate designs may include elimination of ditches and/or median width reductions with possible incorporation of raised medians or median barrier to reduce required R/W. A suggested procedure is shown in FIGURE A-2-2 to develop the difference in cost between the typical section based on the project s functional classification and proper Geometric Design Standards and the typical section with the desired recoverable areas. * Rev. 1/12
38 A-31 DETERMINE FUNCTIONAL CLASSIFICATION AND GEOMETRIC DESIGN STANDARDS OPTIONAL DESIGNS 1. NORMAL DESIGN SHOULDER WITH TRAFFIC BARRIERS IF APPLICABLE. 2. SAFETY DESIGNS 3. SHOULDERS WITH RECOVERABLE AREAS. DETERMINED COST EFFECTIVE DESIGN *WITHOUT RECOVERABLE AREAS DETERMINE SAFETY SLOPE COST JUSTIFICATION GUIDELINES CONVERT DESIGN TO GROUND LINES *WITH RECOVERABLE AREAS DETERMINE NORMAL DESIGN / SAFETY DESIGN COST DIFFERENTIAL (INCLUDED R/W COST) CONVERT TO COST PER MILE * GEOPAK DESIGN CROSS SECTION LISTING EARTHWORK VOLUME COMPUTATIONS Note: FIGURE A-2-2 COST EFFECTIVE SELECTION PROCEDURES Upon receipt of normal design and safety design earthwork quantities, a cursory review may indicate that the cost per side for the earthwork alone far exceeds the cost per mile for safety slopes, thereby eliminating the need to determine the other additional costs such as drainage extensions, right of way, etc. EMBANKMENT SLOPES Embankment slopes must have a relatively smooth and firm surface to be truly recoverable or traversable. Rev. 7/06
39 A-32 Fill slopes between 3:1 and 4:1 are traversable, but non-recoverable slopes, defined as one from which most motorists will be unable to stop or to return to the roadway easily. Vehicles on such slopes typically can be expected to reach the bottom. Since a high percentage of encroaching vehicles will reach the toe of these slopes, the recovery area cannot logically end on the slope. Fixed obstacles should not be constructed along such slopes and a clear runout area (10' min.) at the base is desirable. FIGURE A-2-4 provides an example of a clear zone computation for non-recoverable slopes. Any non-traversable hazards or fixed objects, including but not limited to those listed in TABLE A-3-1, which are located within the clear zone as determined from TABLE A-2-1 should preferably be removed, relocated, made yielding, or as a last resort, shielded with a barrier. HORIZONTAL CURVE ADJUSTMENTS The distances in TABLE A-2-1 may be increased on horizontal curves by the values shown in TABLE A-2-2. See the AASHTO Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3 for further instructions. These modifications are normally considered where crash * histories indicate such a need, when a specific site investigation shows a definitive crash potential that could be significantly lessened by increasing the clear zone width, and when such increases are cost effective. In these situations, the clear zone distance is increased by the factor in the table below: RADIUS DESIGN SPEED (mph) (ft) TABLE A-2-2 Source: AASHTO Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3 Where CZ c = (L c ) (K cz ) CZ c = clear zone on outside of curvature, ft. L c = clear zone distance ft., Table A-2-1 K cz = curve correction factor Note: Clear zone correction factor is applied to outside of curves only. Curves flatter than 2950 feet don't typically require an adjusted clear zone. * Rev. 1/12
40 A-33 SHOWING CLEAR ZONES/ LATERAL OFFSETS ON TYPICAL SECTIONS The clear zone width(s) shall be clearly shown on the project typical sections if traversable slopes are being provided so that other divisions will be aware of the desirable clear zones for a project. When varying clear zone widths occur, furnish station to station breakdown. Following are typical methods of showing clear zone/lateral offset * data on typical sections. TYPICAL METHOD OF SHOWING CLEAR ZONE/ LATERAL OFFSET DATA ON TYPICAL SECTIONS NOTES: 1. If the front slope of ditch is 6:1, the back slope should be 4:1, and if the front slope is 3:1, the back slope should be flat. 2. The preferred slope for recoverable areas with fills is 6:1 or flatter. 3. Width to be increased 3' when Guardrail is required. Rev. 7/13
41 A-34 FIGURE A-2-4 EXAMPLE OF A PARALLEL EMBANKMENT SLOPE DESIGN Source: AASHTO Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3 This figure illustrates a recoverable slope followed by a non-recoverable slope. Since the clear zone distance extends onto a non-recoverable slope, the portion of the clear zone distance on such a slope may be provided beyond the non-recoverable slope if practical. This clear runout area would then be included in the total recovery area. The clear runout area may be reduced in width based on existing conditions or site investigations. Such a variable slope typical section is often used as a compromise between roadside safety and economics. By providing a relatively flat recovery area immediately adjacent to the roadway, most errant motorists can recover before reaching the steeper slope beyond. The slope break may be liberally rounded so an encroaching vehicle does not become airborne. It is suggested that the steeper slope be made as smooth as practical and rounded at the bottom.
42 A-35 NON-RECOVERABLE PARALLEL SLOPES Foreslopes * from 3:1 up to 4:1 are considered traversable if they are smooth and free of fixed object hazards. However, since many vehicles on slopes this steep will continue on to the bottom, a clear run-out area beyond the toe of the slope is desirable. The extent of this clear run-out area could be determined by first finding the available distance between the edge of the through traveled way and the breakpoint of the recoverable foreslope to the nonrecoverable foreslope. This distance is then subtracted from the total recommended clear zone distance based on the slope that is beyond the toe of the non-recoverable foreslope and should be at least 10 if practicable. The result is the desirable clear run-out area. The following example illustrates this procedure: EXAMPLE Design ADT: 7000 Design Speed: 60 mph Recommended clear zone distance for the 8:1 slope: feet (from TABLE A-2-1) Recovery distance before breakpoint of non-recoverable foreslope: 17 feet Clear run-out area at toe of slope: feet minus 17 feet or feet (For Example of Alternate Design to reduce CZ requirement, see below) Discussion: Using the steepest recoverable foreslope before or after the non-recoverable foreslope, a clear zone distance is selected from Table A-2-1. In this example, the 8:1 slope beyond the base of the fill dictates a foot clear zone area. Since 17 feet is available at the top, an additional feet could be provided at the bottom. Since this is less than the 10 recovery area that should be provided at the toe of all the non-recoverable slopes, the 10 should be applied. All foreslope breaks may be rounded and no fixed objects would normally be built within the upper or lower portions of the clear zone or on the intervening foreslope. The designer may find it safe and practical to provide less than the entire feet at the toe of the slope. A smaller recovery area could be applicable based on the rounded slope breaks, the flatter slope at the top or past accident histories. A specific site investigation may be appropriate in determining an appropriate recovery area at the toe of the slope. * Rev. 7/13
43 A-36 EXAMPLE OF ALTERNATE DESIGN (INCORPORATING MINOR SLOPE ADJUSTMENT) TO REDUCE TOTAL CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT: Or less Source: Roadside Design Guide, Chapter 3 When traffic barriers must be provided because hazardous conditions cannot be eliminated, see Appendix I * - Barrier Installation Criteria. * Rev. 1/15
44 A-37 SECTION A-3- INNOVATIVE INTERSECTION AND INTERCHANGE DESIGN GUIDELINES Below are examples of Innovative Intersection and Interchange Control Types that VDOT currently recognizes as effective traffic control treatments: * CURRENT VDOT INNOVATIVE INTERSECTION AND INTERCHANGE CONTROL TYPES Intersections Displaced Left-Turn (DLT) Median U-Turn (MUT) Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT) Continuous Green-T (CGT) Quadrant Roadway (QR) Jug-handle Roundabouts Interchanges Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) Single Point Urban Interchange Double Roundabout Interchange Other Innovative Intersection and interchange designs may be developed in the future and will be listed in this Appendix. For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: * Added 7/17
45 A-38 INNOVATIVE INTERSECTION DESIGN GUIDELINES DISPLACED LEFT-TURN INTERSECTION (DLT) (Also known as Continuous Flow Intersectionn (CFI), Crossover Displaced Left-Turn Intersection) Any intersection form relocating one or more left-turn movements on an approach to the other side of the opposing traffic flow. S * Allows left-turn movements to proceed simultaneously with the through movement. Eliminates the left turn phase for this approach. Reduces the number of traffic signal phases andd conflict points (locations where user paths cross). Can result in improvements in traffic operations and safety performance Green time can be reallocated to facilitate pedestrian crossings For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: * Added 7/ 17
46 A-39 MEDIAN U-TURN INTERSECTION (MUT) (Also Known as Median U-Turn Crossover, Boulevard Turnaround, Michigan Loon and ThrU-Turn Intersection). * Replaces all direct left turns at an intersectionn with indirect left turns using a U-turn movement in a wide median. Eliminates left turns on both intersecting side streets and the major street. Reduce the number of traffic signal phases andd conflict points - May result in improved intersection operations and safety. Can also utilize unsignalized median U-turns. Distance of the secondary intersections from the main intersection should provide adequate taper and storage length for vehicles, signing, and sight distance. Recommend spacing the secondary intersections ±660 feet from the main intersection. For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: * Added 7/ 17
47 A-40 RESTRICTED CROSSING U-TURN INTERSECTION (RCUT) (Also knownn as Superstreet Intersection, J-Turn Intersection and Synchronized Street Intersection) * Replaces side street direct left turns at an intersection with indirect left turns using a U-turn movement in a wide median. Eliminates left turns on both intersecting side streets. Left turns are provided on the major street. Can be signalized or unsignalized. Reduce the number of traffic signal phases andd conflict points. When implemented as a corridor treatment, almost perfect signal progression is possible as the main intersection can be operated as two separate signalss with the two major street direction phases operating independently of each other. Will usually result in improved intersection operations and safety. Distance of the secondary intersections from the main intersection should provide adequate taper and storage length for vehicles, signing, and sight distance. Recommend spacing the secondary intersections ±660 feet from the main intersection. For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: design/ * Added 7/ 17
48 A-41 CONTINUOUS GREEN-T (CGT) * The design provides free-flow operations in one direction on the major street and can reduce the number of approach movements that need to stop to three by using free-flow right turn lanes on the arterial and cross streets and acceleration/merge lanes for left turn movements from the cross street. Physical separation or barrier is typically required between the acceleration/merge lanes and the mainline free flow movement. For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: pdf Major Street Major Street * Added 7/17
49 A-42 QUADRANT ROADWAY INTERSECTION (QR) * Geometric Design The primary design considerations of the QR intersection are as follows: Left turns are not permitted at the main intersection. The location of the connector road should be primarily determined by the left-turn volume at the intersection. U-turns are not permitted at the main intersection and are rerouted similar to left turns. Distance of the secondary intersections from the main intersection should provide adequate taper and storage for vehicles, signing, and sight distance. Recommend spacing the secondary intersections ±660 feet from the main intersection. If permitted, driveways from the connecting road to the parcel inside the connecting road may be placed in the curve of the connecting road or near one of the secondary intersections. If driveways are not permitted, then the parcel inside the connecting roadway can be accessed via driveways off one or both of the intersecting streets. At a QR intersection, some pedestrians will need to cross an extra street; however, others who follow the curved connection roadway or the main intersection crosswalks will have shorter walking distances. Also, the shorter cycle lengths at QR intersections benefit pedestrians. A QR with more than one connection road can be implemented if right-of-way is available and if left-turn volumes justify it. Geometric principles remain largely the same for QRs with one or more connection roadways. Applicability They are most applicable where the following exists: A roadway in the road network can be used as a connection roadway. There are heavy left turns and through volumes on the major and minor roads. The minor road total volume to total intersection volume ratio is typically less than or equal to * Added 7/17
50 A-43 QUADRANT ROADWAY INTERSECTION * For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: * Added 7/ 17
51 A-44 JUG-HANDLE * A jug-handle is a type of ramp or slip road that changes the way traffic turns left at an at-grade intersection. Instead of a standard left turn being made at the intersection from the left lane, left-turning traffic uses a ramp or slip road on the right side of the road. Jug-handles are common in many states including New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Oregon, and Pennsylvania. Drivers wishing to turn left exit the major roadway at a ramp or slip road on the right, and turn left onto the minor road at a terminus separated from the main intersection. For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: * Added 7/17
52 A-45 ROUNDABOUTS * Roundabouts are circular intersections with specific design and traffic control features. These include yield control of all entering traffic (circulating vehicles have the right-of-way), channelized approaches, and geometric curvature to ensure that travel speeds are typically less than 30 mph (single-lane mph; two-lane mph). Roundabouts are generally safer than other types of intersections for low and medium traffic conditions. These safety benefits are achieved by eliminating vehicle crossing movements through the conversion of all movements to right turns and by requiring lower speeds as motorists proceed into and through the roundabout. The potential for right angle and left turn head-on crashes is eliminated with single lane roundabouts. Roundabouts treat all vehicle movements equally, each approach is required to yield to circulating traffic. Roundabouts typically handle higher volumes with lower vehicle delays (queue) than traditional intersections at capacity. While roundabouts usually require more right-of-way at an intersection compared to a traffic signal, they require less right-of-way on the upstream approaches and downstream exits. At new intersection sites that will require turn lanes, a roundabout can be a less expensive intersection alternative. Operating and maintenance costs are less than signalized intersections since there is no signal equipment. The roundabout has aesthetic advantages over other intersection types particularly when the central island is landscaped. * Rev. 7/17
53 A-46 FIGURE A-3-1 ROUNDABOUT DESIGN ELEMENTS Source: NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition. * * Rev. 7/17
54 A-47 For Truck Apron Curb use cell Mod. CG-3 found in the cell library. * FIGURE A-3-2 ROUNDABOUT TRUCK APRON CURB DETAIL * Rev. 7/17
55 A-48 There are three basic categories of roundabouts based on size and number of lanes: miniroundabouts, single-lane roundabouts and multi-lane roundabouts. * MINI-ROUNDABOUTS Mini-Roundabouts are applicable in urban environments with speeds less than or equal to 30 mph. They adapt to existing boundaries by providing a fully traversable central island, a miniroundabout can be a low-cost solution for improving intersection capacity and safety without the need for acquiring additional right of way. The suitability of a mini-roundabout depends on: 1) Traffic Volumes (comparable ADT from each approach roadway) 2) Truck Volumes < 5% 3) Frequency of School Bus use Mini-Roundabouts should meet the following geometric design criteria: 1) Central island of 25 to 50 feet, which is fully mountable 2) Central island curb height is less than 2 inches high and is often flush and painted 3) Central island cross slope of 12:1 maximum 4) Circular roadway width of 12 feet (may be wider for intersections with acute angles) 5) Approach lanes 10 to 11 feet (to reduce speeds) Mini-Roundabouts are designed with painted splitter islands in each quadrant to guide traffic. The majority of traffic (usually estimated at 97%) should be able to pass through the miniroundabout while staying within the circular roadway. The traversable central island and splitter islands allow larger vehicles to pass through. Mini-Roundabouts can conservatively handle 1,600 VPD (all approaches) while providing an adequate level of service. Sources: ITE Journal, November 2012, Article by Lochrane, Zhang and Bared; Public Roads Magazine, Nov./Dec. 2012, They re Small But Powerful at: NCHRP Report 672, Roundabouts: An Informational Guide, Second Edition, Chapter 6, Section 6.6 * Rev. 7/17
56 A-49 Features of a Typical Mini-Roundabout * Source: NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition. * Rev. 7/17
57 A-50 SINGLE-LANE ROUNDABOUTS * Single-Lane Roundabouts have single-lane entry at all legs and one circulating lane. They are distinguished from mini-roundabouts by their larger inscribed circle diameter and non-traversable central island. The geometric design features include: raised splitter islands with appropriate entry path deflection, a raised non-traversable central island, crosswalks, and a truck apron vertically separated by a VDOT CG-3 Modified curb from the circulatory roadway. The maximum daily service volume of a single-lane roundabout varies between 20,000 and 26,000 vehicles per day (2,000-2,600 peak hour volume), depending on the left turn percentages and the distribution of traffic between the major and minor roads. Features of a Typical Single-Lane Roundabout Source: NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition. * Rev. 7/17
58 A-51 MULTI-LANE ROUNDABOUTS * Multi-Lane Roundabouts have at least one entry with two or more circulating lanes. In some cases, the roundabout may have a different number of lanes on one or more approaches (e.g., two-lane entries on the major street and one-lane entries on the minor street). They may have entries on one or more approaches that flare from one to two or more lanes. They also require wider circulating roadways to accommodate more than one vehicle traveling side by side. The geometric design features include: raised splitter islands with appropriate entry path deflection, a raised non-traversable central island, crosswalks, and a truck apron separated by a VDOT CG-3 Modified curb from the circulatory roadway. Driver decisions are more complex for multi-lane roundabouts. These decisions include: proper lane when entering, lateral positioning while circulating and proper lane for exiting. If a Multi-Lane Roundabout design is warranted in the long term, it should be designed as a Multi-Lane Roundabout, but striped and signed as a Single-Lane Roundabout when initially opened to traffic. Features of a Typical Multi-Lane Roundabout Source: NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition. * Rev. 7/17
59 A-52 GEOMETRIC DESIGN CRITERIA FOR SINGLE-LANE AND MULTI-LANE ROUNDABOUTS Central Island, shall be raised (non-mountable) and sloped outward away from the center. The island is typically landscaped for aesthetic reasons and to enhance driver recognition for the roundabout upon approach. The truck apron is also considered to be a portion of the central island, but is traversable. Truck Aprons shall be designed such that they are traversable to trucks but discourage passenger vehicles from using them. Truck apron width shall be determined by the tracking of the design vehicle (WB-67) using AutoTurn. They shall be 4 feet to 15 feet wide and have a cross slope of 1% to 2% outward away from the central island. If the percentage of trucks anticipated to use the road exceeds 5%, that radius should be sufficient to serve those vehicles. The outer edge of the truck apron shall include a CG-3 Modified Curb (See Figure 2-15 Roundabout Truck Apron Curb Detail), to vertically separate the truck apron from circulatory roadway surface. The truck apron shall also be constructed of a different material to differentiate it from the circulatory roadway. The truck apron shall also be a different color and texture.* Circulatory Roadway shall be sloped 2% outward away from the central island. The outward cross-slope design means drivers making through and left-turn movements must negotiate the roundabout at negative superelevation. Sloping the circulatory roadway outward away from the central island is required for the following reasons: o It promotes safety by raising the elevation of the central island and improves visibility, o It promotes lower circulating speeds due to the adverse superelevation, o It minimizes breaks in the cross slopes of the entrance and exit lanes, and o It allows surface water to drain to the outside of the roundabout. Curb and/ or Curb and Gutter shall be provided on the outside of the circulatory roadway and on all approaches a minimum distance equal to the length of the splitter island to help approaching drivers recognize the need to reduce their speed, prevent corner-cutting, and to confine vehicles to the intended design path. Inscribed Circle diameter is the distance measured across the circle inscribed by the face of the outer curb or front edge of the gutter pan of the circulatory roadway. See Figure * Rev. 7/17
60 A-53 Profiles The vertical design shall begin with the development of the approach roadway and the central island. Each profile shall be designed to the point where the approach baseline intersects with the central island. A profile for the central island is then developed that passes through these four points (in the case of a four-legged roundabout). The approach roadway profiles shall be refined as necessary to meet the central island profile. For examples see, Chapter 6 of the NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition. In addition to the approach and central island profiles, creating an additional profile around the inscribed circle of the roundabout and / or outer curbs are also beneficial. The combination of the central island, inscribed circle, and curb profiles allows for quick verification of cross slopes and drainage and provides additional information to contractors for staking out the roundabout. * Example Plan Sheets, Typical Section, Profile Sheets for a Typical Single-Lane Roundabouts can be accessed at: as well as in NCHRP Report 672 Roundabouts; An Informational Guide, Second Edition., page Design Element Desirable maximum entry design speed Maximum number of entering lanes per approach Typical inscribed circle diameter Central island treatment Typical daily service volumes on 4-leg roundabout below which may be expected to operate without requiring a detailed capacity analysis (veh/day)* Mini-Roundabout Single-Lane Roundabout Multi-lane Roundabout 15 to 20 mph 20 to 25 mph 25 mph to 30 mph to 90 ft. 90 to 180 ft. Fully traversable Up to approximately 15,000 Raised (w/ traversable apron) Up to Approximately 25, to 220 ft. (two-lanes) Raised (w/ traversable apron) Up to Approximately 45,000 for two-lane roundabout *Operational analysis needed to verify upper limit for specific applications or for roundabouts with more than two lanes or four legs. Roundabout Category Comparison * Rev. 7/17
61 A-54 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ACCOMMODATIONS Bicycle and Pedestrian accommodations should be considered when designing roundabouts. For pedestrians, the risk of being involved in a severe collision is lower at roundabouts than at other forms of intersections due to the slower vehicle speeds (20-30 mph). Likewise, the number of conflict points at roundabouts is also lower and thus can lower the frequency of crashes. For pedestrian design consideration, see Chapter 6 of the NCHRP Report 672, Roundabouts: An Informational Guide, Second Edition at For bicyclists, safety and usability of roundabouts depends upon the roundabout design. Since typical on-road bicyclists travel is between 12 and 20 mph, roundabouts that are designed to constrain vehicle speeds to similar values will minimize the relative speeds between bicyclists and motorists, and thereby improve the safety and usability for bicyclists. * Single-lane roundabouts are much easier for bicyclists than multi-lane roundabouts since they do not require bicyclists to change lanes to make left-turn movements or otherwise select the appropriate lane for their direction of travel. In addition, at single-lane roundabouts, motorists are less likely to cut off bicyclists when exiting the roundabout. Therefore, it is important not to select a multi-lane roundabout over a Single-lane roundabout in the short term, even when long term traffic volumes and LOS suggest a multi-lane roundabout. However, if a multi-lane roundabout design is selected for the long term, it should be striped and signed as a single-lane roundabout initially. For roundabout intersection spacing standards and other intersection spacing standards, see Appendix F, Table 2-2 MINIMUM SPACING STANDARDS FOR COMMERCIAL ENTRANCES, INTERSECTIONS AND MEDIAN CROSSOVERS. * Rev. 7/17
62 A-55 DESIGN RESOURCES * For Roundabout Consideration & Alternative Selection Guidance Tool, see Roundabouts in Additional information can be found in NCHRP Report 672, Roundabouts: An Informational Guide, Second Edition. See the following link: Additional information can also be found in VDOT s Roundabout Brochure at and on VDOT s roundabout web site at Roundabouts in Virginia. THE REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS FOR ROUNDABOUTS Existing and Proposed Subdivisions - The District Location & Design Engineer shall review and approve roundabouts in subdivisions if VDOT owns and maintains the roadway or if it is the desire of the developer / locality for VDOT to accept the roadway into the State Highway System. Secondary System The District shall approve roundabouts up to a traffic design volume of 10,000 VPD. Roundabout designs in which the traffic volume exceeds 10,000 VPD shall be submitted to the Central Office Roundabout Review Committee at the preliminary field inspection, public hearing/design approval and right of way stages and for review and comments. The committee will make recommendations to the State Location and Design Engineer for approval or disapproval. Appeals of the State Location and Design Engineer s decision will go to the Chief Engineer for resolution. When a District receives a request for a roundabout from an outside entity, and the design volume is below 10,000 VPD but requests the Central Office Roundabout Review Committees review and comments, the submittal shall be sent to the State Location and Design Engineer. It will be reviewed and comments and/or recommendations will be returned in a timely manner. Primary or Urban System - The District Location & Design Engineer shall submit roundabout designs to the Central Office Roundabout Review Committee at the preliminary field inspection, public hearing/design approval and right of way stages for review and comments. The approval and appeals will be the same as mentioned above. The process mentioned above applies to: Roundabouts proposed through six year construction program. Roundabouts proposed during road safety improvements and/or upgrades. Roundabouts proposed by Counties, Localities, Consultants and Developers * Rev. 7/17
63 A-56 The plan submittal shall contain and depict the following criteria: * Design speed & fastest theoretical path Design vehicle for Circulatory Roadway (S-BUS-36) Design vehicle for Truck Apron (WB-67) Approach Grades/sight triangles/sight distances Inscribed outer diameter of circulatory roadway Apron composition, width, slope and curb standard Circulatory lane width Approach lane width/deflection/radii Departure lane width/deflection/radii Splitter island lengths/raised/flush Pedestrian crossing locations/width, composition, raised/flush, markings. Bicycle lane/approach & termination point. Pavement markings (directional arrows, yield lines, edge lines, etc.) Signing Roadway Lighting (preferred) Location of nearest entrances to outer inscribed diameter and nature of land use Present & design year volumes, % trucks & turning movements on all approaches AASIDRA analysis on all approaches/peak hrs. LOS/queue lengths in design year AUTO-TURN results of Design Vehicle for all turning movements Planting scheme/landscaping for mounded central island and splitter islands. Proximity of roundabout to nearest traffic signal. If for some reason, the District does not have capability to run the subject computer programs, the Central Office Roundabout Review Committee can provide assistance upon request. * Rev. 7/17
64 A-57 INNOVATIVE INTERCHANGE DESIGN GUIDELINES * DIVERGING DIAMOND INTERCHANGE (DDI) - Also known as Double Crossover Diamond (DCD) An alternative to the conventional diamond interchange or other Innovative Interchange forms. A DDI is different from a conventiona al diamond interchangee o Directional crossovers on either side of the interchange eliminate the need for left turning vehicles to cross the paths off approaching throughh vehicles. Improves the operations of turning movements to and from the freeway facility o Reduces the number and severity of vehicle to vehicle conflict points Ramp terminal intersections operate with two-phase signalss for increased efficiency For more information on the above mentioned Innovative Intersection Designs see: design/ * Rev. 7/177
Provides an extension of a road to the subdivision boundary or parcel to facilitate the continuity of possible adjacent development.
SECTION 2 - ROADWAYS 2-1 Continuity of the Public Road System The continuity of a publicly maintained system is a prerequisite to the addition of any street into the County road system. A road or street