Channelization (roads)

Channelization is a <a href="/facts/Traffic_engineering_(transportation)/fWW0DgzW">traffic engineering</a> concept that employs the use of secondary roads, <a href="/facts/Slip_lane/xSd1jcJN">slip lane</a> to separate certain flows of traffic from the main traffic lanes. The method came into favor in the <a href="/facts/United_States/P0sCdLe5">United States</a> in the 1950s. One of the most effective and efficient methods of controlling the traffic on a highway is the adoption of high <a href="/facts/Intersection_(road)/b51M4MQx">intersection</a> geometric design standards.
Channelization is an integral part of <a href="/facts/At-grade_intersections/b51M4MQx">at-grade intersections</a> to separate turning movements from through movements that are considered advisable. That helps greatly to reduce the intensity and frequency of loss of life and property from <a href="/facts/Traffic_collision/hW5yXKq3">crashes</a>. Proper channelization increases capacity, improves safety, provides maximum convenience, and instils driver confidence. Improper channelization has the opposite effects and may be worse than none at all.
Over-channelization should be avoided because it could create confusion and worsen operations. Channelization of at-grade intersections is the separation or regulation of conflicting traffic movements into definite paths of travel by the use of <a href="/facts/Pavement_marking/yk8thLtL">pavement markings</a>, raised islands, or other suitable means to facilitate the safe and orderly movement of both vehicles and <a href="/facts/Pedestrian/Vc8a4xer">pedestrians</a>.

Channelization (roads) open-in-new

Channelization (roads)