Applying Design Flexibility and Reducing Conflicts
This publication is intended to be a resource for practitioners seeking to build multimodal transportation networks.
by Federal Highway Administration
Multimodal transportation networks provide access to jobs, education, health care, recreation, transit, and other essential services in urban, suburban, and rural areas throughout the United States. Interconnected pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure makes walking and bicycling a viable transportation choice for everyone and this contributes to the health, equity, and quality of life of our communities.
This publication is a resource for practitioners seeking to build multimodal transportation networks. The publication highlights ways that planners and designers can apply the design flexibility found in current national design guidance to address common roadway design challenges and barriers. It focuses on reducing multimodal conflicts and achieving connected networks so that walking and bicycling are safe, comfortable, and attractive options for people of all ages and abilities.
This resource includes 24 design topics, organized into two themes. The 12 design topics in Part 1 focus on design flexibility. The 12 topics in Part 2 focus on measures to reduce conflicts between modes. Each design topic is four pages in length and includes relevant case studies and references to appropriate design guidelines.
This document covers a wide range of solutions to achieve multimodal transportation networks. It includes solutions for streets and intersections, and has information about shared use paths and other trails that can serve both transportation and recreation purposes. It includes information about crossing main streets, bridges and underpasses, and about interactions with freight and transit. This resource addresses common concerns and perceived barriers among planning and design professionals and provides specific information about flexible design treatments and approaches.
Published August 2016
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), part of the US Department of Transportation, provides expertise, resources, and information to improve the nation's highway system and its intermodal connections. The Federal-Aid Highway Program provides financial assistance to the States to construct and improve the National Highway System, other roads, bridges, and trails.
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