Freeways designed in urban core contexts face constraints such as proximity to other structures, high property values, limited ROW, and construction phasing. In these areas, options such as depressed or elevated freeways may serve as the most viable option. During design, the effect on surrounding traffic should be considered. These high-density areas will have increased traffic volumes, and the designer should consider how the construction and resulting freeway might impact these traffic movements.

If significant utility conflicts exist, an elevated freeway could be implemented. This freeway spans above surface streets, allowing local traffic continuity during construction. Space below these freeways can also be used for purposes such as parking where space may otherwise be limited.

Elevated structures may carry one-way or two-way traffic. Where the ROW does not permit a two-way elevated structure, a stacked design may be used. This increases the overall height of the freeway, but the width is minimized.

If conditions permit, a depressed freeway may also serve as a viable option. Lowering the freeway below ground-level can provide freeway traffic to pass below surrounding cross streets while surrounding vehicle and pedestrian traffic flows normally. The lowered freeway also reduces noise which may affect surrounding properties.

For all considerations of special freeway design see also apply to freeways in the urban core context.