TheConductor (2022-01-03 02:42:53+00:00): Traffic volume is only one of the metrics that I use to determine what the final classification should be. Another is the local element that gives me the unique perspective on travel habits, local priority, and how people get from point A to point B. I also factor in regional importance as well as local importance as well as what local and state authorities have determined on the subject. I value their input above anything else because they are the ultimate authority on this. 

If you were local to the area, you would understand that majority (80%+ of traffic) that is making the change between I-80 to US 95 or vice versa is utilizing Exit 176. We know this because of local traffic studies that have been conducted. As I pointed out before, just because a road that connects two larger roads appear to merit a higher classification does not always mean that it should. The wiki classifies a primary road as “some state roads are [also] primary, the criterion being either they connect large towns/cities, or being a major road in an urban area. “The definition of secondary road is as follows “A highway which is not part of a major route, but nevertheless forming a link in the national route network.” This definition (Secondary) is a far better fit than primary because it is not a major route (contrary to what it might look like on paper) but it does form a link between two larger routes. I stand by my decision to maintain this as secondary. I am willing to discuss this matter in the group that works with me on changes to the area. We have a meeting soon and I will bring this up. I would also like to point out that I do not make comparisons between towns because each is different and each has different features that makes each unique. 

I understand your intentions behind wanting to upgrade the roads that connect the high school, middle school, and college but if you had spent any time in Winnemucca, you would understand that these roads maintain a strict 25 mph speed limit, contain no center turn lane, and several are not even striped. In this case, Highland Drive is the primary connection between the neighborhoods to the north and business district to the south. When Great Basin Avenue get punched through to Water Canyon Road someday, there is a good case to upgrade it to tertiary. For now, the best that I can see Great Basin Road being is an unclassified road. Until then, I stand by my decision to maintain these as residential, local access roads.  

I spent 25 years of my life in Winnemucca. It’s home for me and it’s the place I know the best (and also where I edit the most). My understanding is that your experience is primarily with Las Vegas until you moved to Virginia (based on your bio). I try to stick only to places I’ve visited or have lived (in this case, Winnemucca and SLC). I would kindly ask that you consult local editors (in this case myself) before making such large scale changes. Just like btwhite92 (whom I’m friendly with) is the guy for Reno, I’m the guy for Winnemucca. I am confident that those using OSM to navigate will achieve above satisfactory results based on the current classification schema. Thanks!