3.3.5 Urban Context

Urban contexts are medium to high density and consist mainly of multistory and low-to medium-rise structures for residential, commercial, and institutional use. Many structures are mixed use: commercial, residential, and parking. Building setbacks are typically small with pedestrian-focused building orientations. Urban contexts generally experience lower driver speed expectations, with a higher likelihood of encountering stopped or turning vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Examples of typical urban areas are shown below.
Typical characteristics are:
  • High-density development;
  • Some on-street parking;
  • Varied building setbacks Multi-story and low-to medium-rise structures for residential, commercial, parking and educational uses;
  • Light to heavy industrial land use;
  • Prominent destinations with specialized structures, (e.g., large theaters, sports facilities, or conference centers);
  • High levels of pedestrian and bicyclist activity, with nearly continuous sidewalks and marked crosswalks;
  • Higher density of transit stops and routes;
  • Driveway densities greater than 30 driveways/mile on both sides of the road;
  • Minor commercial driveway densities of 10 driveways/mile or greater; and
  • Major commercial driveways.
Example Roadway in Urban Context ( click in image to see full-size image)
Figure 3-7: Example Roadway in Urban Context
Source: Graham-Smith Partners – AASHTO Green Book 7
th
 Edition (Top Image)