Chapter 9

Capacity and Level of Service for

Highway Segments
9-1
Define the elements of a Class I and a Class II highway.
A Class I two-lane highway functions as an arterial or a link to an arterial,
often carrying primarily commuter traffic. Motorists expect relatively high-speed
travel. A Class II two-lane highway may serve as access to a class I two-lane
highway, as a scenic or recreational route, or be located in rugged terrain, thereby
constraining travel speeds. Motorists expect lower speeds on Class II than on
Class I roads. Average trip lengths are shorter on Class II roads than Class I.
9-2
What are the two measures used to describe service quality for a two-lane highway?
Which of the measures are used to describe level-of-service for Class I and Class II
highways?
Service quality on a two-lane highway is described using percent of time
spent following another vehicle (PTSF) and average travel speed (ATS). A
vehicle considered to be following when the time headway between it and the
preceding vehicle is less than 3 seconds. The space mean speed is used as ATS
and can be found by dividing segment length by average travel time of vehicles
traversing the segment in both direction during a designated time interval. PTSF
and ATS are used to determine level-of-service on Class I roads while only PTSF
is used on Class II roads.

9-3
Describe the traffic characteristics associated with each of the six levels of service
for two-lane highways.
In LOS A, motorists are able to travel at their desired speeds, with if any
platoons and minimal passing maneuvers. With LOS B, passing demand
increases significantly and approaches passing capacity at the lower end of LOS
B. In LOS C, formation of platoons and platoon size increase significantly. In
LOS D, flow begins to become unstable, and passing maneuvers are extremely
difficult if not possible to complete. In LOS E, passing is nearly impossible, and
most vehicles are in long platoons; operating conditions are unstable and difficult
to predict. LOS F occurs when demand exceeds capacity and volume fall back
from capacity with highly variable speeds.
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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-4
The following values of PTSF and ATS have been determined for three separate
two-lane segments. Determine LOS if the segments are: (a) Class I, and (b) Class II.
Segment
10
11
12

PTSF (%)
25
46
67

ATS (mi/h)
52
39
39

(a) For a Class I highway, using Table 9.1, segment 10 operates at LOS A (when
PTSF and ATS correspond to differing levels of service, the lower value of LOS
is used), segment 11 operates at LOS B, and segment 12 operates at LOS D.
(b) For a Class II highway, using Table 9.2, segment 10 operates at LOS A, segment
11 operates at LOS B, and segment 12 operates at LOS C.

9-5
Determine the PTSF for a 4.5 mile two-lane highway segment in level terrain.
Traffic volumes (two-way) are 1100 veh/h. Trucks: 10%; RVs: 7%; PHF: 0.97;
directional split: 60/40; no passing zones: 40%.
Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period, vp
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 1.00
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.1
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4

f HV =

1
1
= 0.99
=
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(1.1 1) + 0.07(1.0 1)

Determine vp (flow rate), using Equation 9.3

V
vp =
= (1100)/(0.97)(0.99)(1.0) = 1146 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )

Step 2: Compute base percent time spent following, BPTSF, using Equation 9.2

BPTSF = 100(1 e

0.000879V p

) = 100(1 e 0.000879 (1146 ) ) = 63.5%

Step 3: Compute percent time spent following, PTSF, using Equation 9.1
Determine fd/np using Table 9.3; by interpolation, fd/np = 7.6%
PTSF = BPTSF + fd/np = 63.5% + 7.6% = 71.1%

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-6
Use the data provided in Problem 9-5 to estimate the ATS. Base free flow speed: 55
mi/h; lane width: 11 ft; shoulder width: 3 ft; access points per mile: 15.

Step 1: Compute free flow speed, FFS, using Equation 9.7

Determine fLS (lane and shoulder width adjustment), using Table 9.9; fLS = 3.0
Determine fA (access point density adjustment), using Table 9.10; fA =3.8
FFS = BFFS fLS fA = 55 3.0 3.8 = 48.2 mi/h
Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period, vp
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.7; fg = 1.00
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.8; ET = 1.2
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.8; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor); using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.98
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(1.2 1) + 0.07(1.0 1)
Determine vp (flow rate), using Equation 9.3
V
vp =
= (1100)/(0.97)(0.98)(1.0) = 1157 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 3: Compute average travel speed, ATS, using Equation 9.5
Determine fnp (adjustment for effect of passing zones), using Table 9.6; fnp = 1.5
ATS = FFS 0.00776vp fnp = 48.2 0.00776(1157) 1.5 = 37.7 mi/h
9-7
Use the results of Problems 9-5 and 9-6 to compute: LOS, v/c, and veh-mi in the
peak 15 minutes and peak hour, and total travel time in the peak 15 minutes.

Results from Problems 9-5 and 9-6:

PTSF = 71.1%
ATS = 37.7 mi/h
Level of service (if a Class I highway), using Table 9.1: LOS D
Level of service (if a Class II highway), using Table 9.2: LOS D
Using Equation 9.8, v/c = 1157/3200 = 0.36
Using Equation 9.9,
V
VMT15 = 0.25(
) Lt = (0.25)(1100)(4.5)/(0.97) = 1275 veh-mi
PHF
Using Equation 9.10,
VMT60 = VLt = (1100)(4.5) = 4950 veh-mi
Using Equation 9.11,
TT15 = VMT15/ATS = 1275/37.7 = 33.8 veh-h
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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-8
Use the data provided in Examples 9-5 and 9-6 to compute to determine PTSF and
ATS in the peak direction if northbound volume is 1000 veh/h and southbound
volume is 600 veh/h.

Class I, 5 mile, two-lane highway segment in rolling terrain.

Trucks: 14%; RVs: 4%; PHF: 0.95; no passing zones: 50%; BFFS = 60 mi/h.
Lane width = 11 ft; shoulder width = 4 ft; 20 access points per mile.
ATS analysis:
Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the peak direction, vd
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 0.99
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.1
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.931
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.14(1.5 1) + 0.04(1.1 1)
Determine vd (flow rate), using Equation 9.3
V
vd =
= (1000)/(0.95)(0.931)(0.99) = 1142 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the opposing direction, vo
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 0.99
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.1
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.931
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.14(1.5 1) + 0.04(1.1 1)
Determine vo (flow rate), using Equation 9.3
V
vo =
= (600)/(0.95)(0.931)(0.99) = 685 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 3: Compute free flow speed, FFS, using Equation 9.7
Determine fLS from Table 9.9; by interpolation, fLS = 1.7
Determine fA from Table 9.10; by interpolation, fLS = 5.0
FFS = BFFS fLS fA = 60 1.7 5.0 = 53.3 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average travel speed, ATS, using Equation 9.14
Determine fnp from Table 9.13; by interpolation, fnp = 1.0
ATSd = FFSd 0.00776(vd + vo) fnp = 53.3 0.00776 (1142+685) 1.1 = 38.0
mi/h
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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

PTSF analysis:
Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the peak direction, vd
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 1.00
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.0
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 1.00
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.14(1.0 1) + 0.04(1.0 1)
Determine vd (flow rate), using Equation 9.3
V
vd =
= (1000)/(0.95)(1.0)(1.0) = 1053 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the opposing direction, vo
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 1.00
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.0
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 1.0
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.14(1.0 1) + 0.04(1.0 1)
Determine vo (flow rate), using Equation 9.3
V
vo =
= (600)/(0.95)(1.0)(1.0) = 632 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 3: Compute base percent time spent following, BPTSF, using Equation 9.12
Find values of a and b from Table 9.12; by interpolation,
a = -0.112
b = 0.403
b
0.403
BPTSFd = 100(1 e avd ) = 100(1 e (0.112 )(1053) ) = 84.2%
Step 4: Compute percent time spent following, PTSF, using Equation 9.11
Determine fnp using Table 9.11; by interpolation, fnp = 8.1%
PTSFd = BPTSFd + fd/np = 84.2% + 8.1% = 92.3%

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-9
Use the data and results obtained in Problem 9-8 to determine the level of service of
a two-lane section if a passing lane 1.5 mi long is added. The passing lane begins
0.75 mi from the starting point of the analysis segment.

To determine the level of service, lengths of the regions in the segment, PTSFpl
and ATSpl, must first be determined.
From Problem 9-8, PTSFd = 87.6% and ATSd = 38.5 mi/h
Step 1: Determine region lengths.
Region I: Lu =0.75 mi
Region II: Lpl = 1.5 mi
Region III: For PTSF, from Table 9.22, Lde = 3.6 mi; from Table 9.20, fpl = 0.62
For ATS, from Table 9.22, Lde = 1.7 mi; from Table 9.20, fpl = 1.11
Region IV: For PTSF, Ld = 5 0.75 1.5 3.6 = -0.85; use Ld = 0
and Lde = 5 0.75 1.5 = 2.75
For ATS, Ld = 5 0.75 1.5 1.7 = 1.05
Step 2: Compute PTSFpl using Equation 9.16
1 f pl Lde
2
PTSFd [ Lu + ( f pl )( L pl ) + (
)(
)]
2
Lde
PTSF pl =
Lt
PTSF pl =

87.6[0.75 + (0.62)(1.5) + (
5

1 0.62 2.75 2
)(
)]
2
3.6 = (87.6)(2.079)/5 = 36.4%

Step 3: Compute ATSpl using Equation 9.18

( ATS d )( Lt )
ATS pl =
L pl
2 Lde
+
+ Ld
Lu +
f pl
f pl + 1
ATS pl =

(38.5)(5)
= (38.5)(5)/4.7627 = 40.4 mi/h
1.5 (2)(1.7)
0.75 +
+
+ 1.05
1.11 1.11 + 1

Step 4: Determine level of service from Table 9.1 (for a Class I highway)
Due to PTSF = 36.4%, the level of service is LOS B.

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-10
An existing Class I two-lane highway is to be analyzed to determine the two-way
level of service, given the following information:
Traffic data:
PHV = 600 veh/h
60% in the peak direction
8% trucks
2% recreational vehicles
PHF = 0.86
No passing zones: 40%
Geometric data:
Rolling terrain
BFFS = 55 mi/h
Lane width = 11 ft
Shoulder width = 2 ft
8 access points per mile

PTSF analysis:
Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period, vp
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 0.94
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.962
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.08(1.5 1) + 0.02(1.0 1)
vp =

V
= (600)/(0.86)(0.962)(0.94) = 772 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )

Step 2: Compute base percent time spent following, BPTSF, using Equation 9.2
BPTSF = 100(1 e

0.000879V p

) = 100(1 e 0.000879 ( 772 ) ) = 49.3%

Step 3: Compute percent time spent following, PTSF, using Equation 9.1
Determine fd/np using Table 9.3; by interpolation, fd/np = 11.0%
PTSF = BPTSF + fd/np = 49.3% + 11.0% = 60.3%
This corresponds to LOS C (Table 9.1) based solely on PTSF.
ATS analysis:
Step 1: Compute free flow speed, FFS, using Equation 9.7
Determine fLS (lane and shoulder width adjustment), using Table 9.9; fLS = 3.0
Determine fA (access point density adjustment), using Table 9.10; fA = 2.0
FFS = BFFS fLS fA = 55 3.0 2.0 = 50.0 mi/h

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period, vp
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.7; fg = 0.930
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.8; ET = 1.9
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.8; ER = 1.1
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor); using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.931
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(1.2 1) + 0.07(1.0 1)
V
Vp =
= (1100)/(0.86)(0.931)(0.93) = 806 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )
Step 3: Compute average travel speed, ATS, using Equation 9.5
Determine fnp (adjustment for effect of passing zones), using Table 9.6; fnp = 2.0
ATS = FFS 0.00776vp fnp = 50.0 0.00776(806) 2.0 = 41.9 mi/h
This corresponds to LOS D (Table 9.1) based solely on ATS.
The overall LOS is taken as the poorer of the two (for PTSF and ATS), LOS D.

9-11
An existing Class II two-lane highway is to be analyzed to determine LOS in the peak
direction given the following information:
Peak hourly volume in the analysis direction: 900 veh/h
Peak hourly volume in the opposing direction: 400 veh/h
Trucks: 12% of total volume
Recreational vehicles: 2% of total volume
PHF: 0.95
Lane width: 12 ft
Shoulder width: 10 ft
Access points per mile: 20
Terrain: rolling
Base free flow speed: 60 mi/h
No passing zones: 40% of analysis segment length

PTSF analysis:
Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the peak direction, vd
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 0.94
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.0
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
f HV =

1
1
=
= 1.00
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.12(1.0 1) + 0.02(1.0 1)

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

vd =

V
= (900)/(0.95)(1.0)(1.0) = 947 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )

Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period in
the opposing direction, vo
Determine fg (grade adjustment factor), using Table 9.4; fg = 0.94
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.5; ET = 1.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.5; ER = 1.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.943
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.12(1.5 1) + 0.02(1.0 1)
vo =

V
= (400)/(0.95)(0.943)(0.94) = 475 pc/h
( PHF )( f HV )( f G )

Step 3: Compute base percent time spent following, BPTSF, using Equation 9.13
Find values of a and b from Table 9.12; by interpolation,
a = -0.073
b = 0.454
b
0.454
BPTSFd = 100(1 e avd ) = 100(1 e (0.073)(947 ) ) = 80.7%
Step 4: Compute free flow speed, FFS, using Equation 9.6
Determine fLS (lane and shoulder width adjustment), using Table 9.9; fLS = 0
Determine fA (access point density adjustment), using Table 9.10; fA = 5.0
FFS = BFFS fLS fA = 60 0 5.0 = 55.0 mi/h
Step 5: Compute percent time spent following, PTSF, using Equation 9.12
Determine fnp using Table 9.11; by interpolation, fnp = 10.1%
PTSFd = BPTSFd + fd/np = 80.7% + 10.1% = 90.8%
This corresponds to LOS E (Table 9.2)

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-12
A new section of Richmond Highway is being designed as a six-lane facility (three in
each direction) with a two-way left-turn lane. Determine the peak hour LOS.
Traffic data:
Directional design hourly volume = 3600 veh/h
PHF = 0.94
Assumed base free flow speed = 55 mi/h
Geometric data:
Urban setting
Rolling terrain
Lane width = 11 ft
Shoulder widths = 4 ft (right side) and 1 ft (left side)
Average access point spacing = 12 points per mile on each side

Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 2.5
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
f HV =
=
= 0.930
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.05(2.5 1) + 0.00
V
= (3600)/(0.94)(3)(0.930)(1.0) = 1373 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
Step 2: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.25
FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fM fA
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 1.9
Determine fLC using Table 9.34, fLC = 1.5
Determine fM using Table 9.35, fM = 0.0
Determine fA using Table 9.36, fA = 3.0
FFS = 55 1.9 1.5 0.0 3.0 = 48.6 mi/h
Step 3: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
Since FFS = 48.6 mi/h and vp = 1373 pc/h/ln, S = FFS = 48.6 mi/h.
Density = (1373 pc/h/ln) / (48.6 mi/h) = 28.3 pc/mi/ln
This corresponds to LOS D (Table 9.33).

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9-13
Briefly describe the traffic characteristics associated with each of the levels of
service for basic freeway sections.

At LOS A free flow conditions prevail. Vehicles are not impeded by other
vehicles. Effects of minor incidents or breakdowns are easily absorbed.
At LOS B, reasonably free flow conditions still exist and vehicles continue to
travel at free flow speeds. Ability to maneuver within the traffic stream is slightly
restricted. Effects of minor incidents or breakdowns are easily absorbed.
At LOS C, speeds are at or near the free flow speed, but freedom to maneuver is
noticeably restricted. Lane changes are more difficult. Minor incidents result in
significant deterioration in local level of service.
At LOS D, speeds begin to decline slightly with increasing flows. Freedom to
maneuver is noticeably limited and drivers experience reduced physical and
psychological comfort. Minor incidents will result in queuing as little space is
left in the traffic stream to absorb disruptions.
At LOS E, operations are volatile because there are virtually no gaps; volume is at
or near capacity. Maneuvers such as lane changing or merging traffic at entrance
ramps will result in a disturbance of the traffic flow. Any incident can be
expected to cause extensive queues as the traffic stream has no ability to dissipate
its effects.
At LOS F, breakdown conditions exist and uniform moving flow cannot be
maintained. The flow conditions are such that the number of vehicles that can
pass a point is less than the number of vehicles arriving at that point.

9-14
Describe the factors that affect the level of service of a freeway section and the
impact each has on flow.

Lane width - Traffic is restricted when lane widths are narrower than 12 ft.
Motorists tend to travel more cautiously because of the reduced lateral distance
between vehicles by reducing their speeds.
Lateral clearance - Lateral obstructions tend to have an effect similar to reduced
lane width. Drivers in the lane adjacent to the obstruction will tend to shy away
from the obstruction, moving them closer to vehicles in the adjacent lane and
resulting in a reduction in speeds. Lateral obstructions more than 6 ft from the
edge of the traveled lane have no significant effect of traffic flow.

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

Traffic composition - The effect of large or heavy vehicles in the traffic stream
reduces the maximum flow on the highway because of their operating
characteristics; a heavy vehicle occupies more space in the traffic stream than
does a passenger car.
Grade - The effect of a grade depends on the length and slope of the grade.
Traffic operations are significantly affected when grades of 3% or greater are 0.25
mile or greater in length and when grades of 3% or less are greater than 0.5 mile
in length. The effect of grades on heavy vehicles is much greater than on
passenger cars.
Driver population - A driver population consisting primarily of weekday
commuters will have significantly different behavior than a driver population
consisting of drivers unfamiliar with the roadway. For example, recreational
traffic capacities can be as much as 20% lower than commuter traffic capacities.
Interchange spacing As interchanges are more closely spaced, the lengths of
basic freeway segments unaffected by interchanges decreases as the weaving
movements at interchanges have an increasing impact on traffic flow resulting in
a reduction of speeds.

9-15
Given: Freeway; design volume of 5000 veh/h; PHF: 0.9; trucks: 10%; design LOS:
C; free flow speed: 70 mi/h; no lateral obstructions; rolling terrain; interchange
spacing: 3 mi.
Determine: Number of 12 ft lanes required in each direction.

Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 2.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.25; ER = 2.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
f HV =

1
1
=
= 0.87
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(2.5 1) + 0.00(2.0 1)

Step 2: Assume six lanes (three in each direction)

V
= (5000)/(0.90)(3)(0.87)(1.0) = 2128 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
Step 3: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23
FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 0.0
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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.0

Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 3.0
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 70 0.0 0.0 3.0 0.0 = 67.0 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 67 mi/h and vp = 2128 pc/h/ln, using Figure 9.9, the average passenger
car speed, S = 60.0 mi/h
Density = (2128 pc/h/ln) / 60.0 mi/h = 35.4 pc/mi/ln
Using Table 9.24, this density corresponds to LOS E, therefore, a three lane
section is inadequate. Repeat steps 2 and 3.
Step 2: Assume eight lanes (four in each direction)
V
= (5000)/(0.90)(4)(0.87)(1.0) = 1597 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
Step 3: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23
FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29 fLW = 0.0
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.0
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 1.5
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 70 0.0 0.0 1.5 0.0 = 68.5 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 68.5 mi/h and vp = 1597 pc/h/ln, using Figure 9.9, the average
passenger car speed, S = 68.1 mi/h
Density = (1597 pc/h/ln) / 68.1 mi/h = 23.4 pc/mi/ln
Using Table 9.24, this density corresponds to LOS C, therefore, a four lane
section is adequate.

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-16
An existing rural freeway in rolling terrain is to be analyzed to determine LOS
using the following information:
Number of lanes in each direction: 2
Peak hour volume: 2640 veh/h (in the peak direction)
18% trucks
2% recreational vehicles
PHF = 0.91
Lane width: 12 ft
Lateral clearance: 10 ft
Average interchange spacing: 3 mi

Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 2.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.25; ER = 2.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
=
= 0.775
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.18(2.5 1) + 0.02(2.0 1)
V
= (2640)/(0.91)(2)(0.775)(1.0) = 1871 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
f HV =

Step 2: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23

FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 0.0
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.0
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 0.0
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 75 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 = 75.0 mi/h
Step 3: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 75.0 mi/h and vp = 1871 pc/h/ln,
2.6

160 1871 + (30)(75) 3400

S = 75 75

3
(30)(75) 1000

The average passenger car speed, S = 69.8 mi/h

Density = (1871 pc/h/ln) / (69.8 mi/h) = 26.8 pc/mi/ln
This corresponds to LOS D.

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-17
An existing urban freeway with 4 lanes in each direction has the following
characteristics:
Traffic data:
Peak hour volume (in the peak direction): 7070 veh/h
Trucks: 10% of peak hour volume
PHF = 0.94
Geometric data:
Lane width: 11 ft
Shoulder width: 6 ft
Interchange spacing (average): 1.4 mile
Terrain: rolling
Determine the LOS in the peak hour. Clearly state assumptions used for any values
not given. Show the demand flow rate, mean speed, and density for the given
conditions.

Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 2.5
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
1
1
=
= 0.870
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(2.5 1) + 0.00
V
= (7070)/(0.94)(4)(0.870)(1.0) = 2163 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
f HV =

Step 2: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23

FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 1.9
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.0
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 1.5
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 1.1
FFS = 70 1.9 0.0 1.5 1.1 = 65.5 mi/h
Step 3: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 65.5 mi/h and vp = 2163 pc/h/ln,
2.6
1
2163 + (30)(65.5) 3400

S = 65.5 ((7)(65.5) 340 )
(40)(65.5) 1700
9

The average passenger car speed, S = 58.3 mi/h

Density = (2163 pc/h/ln) / (58.3 mi/h) = 37.1 pc/mi/ln
This corresponds to LOS E.
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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

9-18
An urban freeway is to be designed using the following information:
AADT = 44,000 veh/day
K (proportion of AADT occurring during the peak hour): 0.10
D (proportion of peak hour traffic traveling in the peak direction): 0.60
Trucks: 10% of peak hour volume
PHF = 0.94
Lane width: 12 ft
Shoulder width: 10 ft
Interchange density: 0.5 interchange/mile
Terrain: rolling
Determine the number of lanes required to provide LOS C. Clearly state
assumptions used for any values not given, and show all calculations required.

Step 1: Compute directional design hourly volume (DDHV).

DDHV = (AADT)(K)(D) = (44000)(0.10)(0.60) = 2640 veh/h
Step 2: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Assume 2 lanes in each direction will be sufficient.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 2.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.25; ER = 2.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
f HV =

vp =

1
1
=
= 0.870
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.10(2.5 1) + 0.00

V
= (2640)/(0.94)(2)(0.870)(1.0) = 1614 pc/h/ln
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )

Step 3: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23

FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 0.0
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.0
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 4.5
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 70 0.0 0.0 4.5 0.0 = 65.5 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 65.5 mi/h and vp = 1614 pc/h/ln,
2.6
1
1614 + (30)(65.5) 3400

S = 65.5 ((7)(65.5) 340 )
(40)(65.5) 1700
9

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

The average passenger car speed, S = 65.3 mi/h

Density = (1614 pc/h/ln) / (65.3 mi/h) = 24.7 pc/mi/ln
This corresponds to LOS C; N = 2 (two lanes in each direction) are required.

9-19
Given: 4-lane freeway (2 lanes in each direction); segment length: 2 mi; sustained
grade: 4%; Design volume of 3000 veh/h; trucks: 10%; buses: 2%; RVs: 3%; PHF:
0.95; free flow speed: 70 mi/h; right side lateral obstruction: 5 ft; design LOS: B.
Determine: number of additional lanes required in each direction.

Step 1: Compute passenger car equivalent flow rate for peak 15-minute period
using Equation 9.21.
Note: this segment is considered to be in mountainous terrain since the maximum
sustained grade is 4%.
Determine fp (driver population factor); assume mainly commuter traffic, fp = 1.0
Determine ET (PCE for trucks), using Table 9.25; ET = 4.5
Determine ER (PCE for RVs), using Table 9.25; ER = 4.0
Determine fHV (heavy vehicle adjustment factor), using Equation 9.4
f HV =

1
1
=
= 0.66
1 + PT ( ET 1) + PR ( E R 1) 1 + 0.12(4.5 1) + 0.03(4.0 1)

Step 2: Assume one additional lane in each direction

V
= (3000)/(0.95)(3)(0.66)(1.0) = 1589 pc/h/ln
vp =
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )
Step 3: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23
FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 0.0
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.4
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 3.0
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 70 0.0 0.4 3.0 0.0 = 66.6 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 66.6 mi/h and vp = 1589 pc/h/ln, using Figure 9.9, the average
passenger car speed, S = 66.4 mi/h
Density = (1589 pc/h/ln) / 66.4 mi/h = 23.9 pc/mi/ln
Using Table 9.24, this density corresponds to LOS C, therefore, a three lane
section is inadequate. Repeat steps 2 and 3.
Step 2: Assume two additional lanes in each direction

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Chapter 9: Capacity and Level of Service for Highway Segments

vp =

V
= (3000)/(0.95)(4)(0.66)(1.0) = 1192 pc/h/ln
( PHF )( N )( f HV )( f p )

Step 3: Compute free flow speed using Equation 9.23

FFS = BFFS fLW fLC fN - fID
Determine fLW using Table 9.29, fLW = 0.0
Determine fLC using Table 9.30, fLC = 0.2
Determine fN using Table 9.31, fN = 1.5
Determine fID using Table 9.32, fID = 0.0
FFS = 70 0.0 0.2 1.5 0.0 = 68.3 mi/h
Step 4: Compute average passenger car speed and density to determine LOS.
For FFS = 68.3 mi/h and vp = 1192 pc/h/ln, using Figure 9.9, the average
passenger car speed, S = 68.3 mi/h
Density = (1192 pc/h/ln) / 68.3 mi/h = 17.5 pc/mi/ln
Using Table 9.24, this density corresponds to LOS B, therefore, a four lane
section is adequate, requiring two additional lanes in each direction.

9-20
Given: Roadway segment with 6000 ft of 3% upgrade, followed by 5000 ft of 5%
upgrade; trucks: 8%; RVs: 4%.
Determine: number of PCEs.

Use performance curves provided in Figure 9.13.

Assuming an entry speed of 55 mi/h, at the end of the first grade speed is 38 mi/h.
At end of the second grade, speed is 27 mi/h, which is also the crawl speed for
that grade. Therefore, the effective grade is 5%.
From Table 9.26, for 8% trucks, 5% grade, and greater than 2 miles, ET = 3.5
From Table 9.27, for 4% RVs, 5% grade, and greater than 2 miles, ER = 4.5

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140