7.1.3 Design Speed
The design speed for arterials can vary greatly between the five contexts.
The design speed should reflect the anticipated target speed during non-peak hours.
However, the design speed should not exceed the limits of prudent construction, right-of-way, and socioeconomic costs. Minimum design speeds for arterials are shown in
.See
for additional guidance on selecting the appropriate design speed.
When determining applicable radii and superelevation for design speeds see
for a summary of superelevation methodologies to be used.
7.1.3.1 Rural
Design speeds for rural arterials must be equal to 60 mph or higher in rolling terrain and 70 mph or higher in level terrain. See
for guidance on the different types of terrain.
7.1.3.2 Rural Town
Rural town arterial design speeds are similar to the urban context in that they may vary from 30 to 45 mph.
7.1.3.3 Suburban
Design speeds for arterials in the suburban context range from 40 to 60 mph and will typically act as a transition segment between rural and urban or rural town sections of roadway.
7.1.3.4 Urban and Urban Core
Urban core arterials generally have design speeds of 35 mph or less while urban arterials typically have design speeds ranging from 30 to 45 mph.