Superstreets To The Rescue

Randal O'Toole points to a thesis paper that proposes a new approach to traffic flow at major intersections.

1 minute read

January 16, 2011, 5:00 AM PST

By Tim Halbur


Rebecca Lynn Haley, author of the study, defines the concept:

"Superstreets, also known as the restricted crossing u-turn (RCUT) by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), works by redirecting the side street left turn and through movements to a downstream, one-way median opening. Left turns from the major road can be accommodated by a u-turn maneuver after the intersection or by a left turn crossover at the main intersection."

Randal O'Toole concludes, from reading the report, that "...this greatly reduces both the time required for traffic signals to cycle and the number of conflict points between the two streets."

Diagrams of the traffic flow are available at The Antiplanner.

Thursday, January 13, 2011 in The Antiplanner

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

For Lease painted on window of vacant commercial space.

2024: The Year in Zoning

Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.

January 8, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Cyclist on bike in green painted bike lane at intersection with three-story buildings in background.

NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide

The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.

January 8, 2025 - National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)

Colorado flags draped between buildings in downtown Denver, Colorado.

Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns

City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.

January 9, 2025 - Governing

Sign for Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Los Angeles County.

After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails

The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.

5 hours ago - Los Angeles Public Press

Person on bike on path next to Memorial Bridge in Washington, D.C. with fall foliage in background across river.

DC Launches New Round of E-Bike Rebates

District residents can apply for a subsidy of up to $1,500 to purchase e-bikes.

7 hours ago - WUSA9

Black bollards lining a curved sidewalk next to a cobblestone street.

Why Aren’t There More Bollards in US Cities?

Solid barriers, like the dormant ones in New Orleans, are commonly used to improve road safety in Europe. Why not here?

January 17 - MinnPost

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.