Enhancing Highway Functional Classifications with Road User Demands

Abstract

Highway functional classifications (FCs) were first created in the Federal-Aid Act of 1921. The purpose of FC of highways is to ensure that national and state highway systems provide both mobility and accessibility for the public. The system created has worked reasonably well over the course of the last 100 years. But problems are occurring and it is time to consider new ways to implement road classification systems. The 1921 legislation established a national system of highways which included a federal aid and primary system for the United States. The national system has greatly enhanced users’ ability to travel long distances by land and to move products from the factory and farm to customers throughout the U.S. much more quickly and cheaply than before. But times have changed and economic growth is being threatened by delays in adding to, improving, and modifying the 3.5 million mi highway network. Both urban and rural daily traffic delays are common. Modification and changing FC of roads take years to finalize. Progress must be improved for continued national transportation success, local growth, and world competitiveness. But even with the willingness to make enhancements in how FCs are managed and modernized, the question is, can the U.S. continue its national economic success? This article will describe two recommendations that if implemented will ensure continued transportation growth and success while taking into account the needs of users at all road levels.