The working definition for “target speed” is the operating speed that the designer

intends

for drivers to use. In mixed-use urban areas, the

target speed

is the highest speed at which vehicles should operate on a low-speed thoroughfare in a specific context, consistent with the level of multimodal activity generated by adjacent land uses, to provide both mobility for motor vehicles and a desirable environment for pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transit users. In general, the target speed for rural roadways should be on the higher end of the design speed range.

The target speed approaching roundabouts, or some other alternative types of intersections, should be properly stepped down to accommodate the desired lower target speed within the intersection. See Alternative Intersections for additional information on when target speeds should be stepped down as drivers approach these types of intersections.

The findings of , which is to be completed in late 2024, will be used as an additional resource to provide recommendations in the roadway design process.