A new segment of freeway is being built to connect two existing parallel freeway facilities. The

following traffic and roadway characteristics are expected:

Traffic Characteristics

• AADT = 85000 veh/day

• K = 12%

• D = 56%

• PHF = 0. 92

• 4% single-unit trucks

• 4% tractor-trailer trucks

Roadway Characteristics

• Grade in peak direction: 1. 5 miles, 2. 5 percent

• Total ramp density = 1. 75 per mile

• Lane widths = 11 ft

• Shoulder widths = 6 ft

a) Determine the number lanes necessary to ensure that this new freeway segment will operate at

no worse than LOS D during the peak hour in the peak direction.

b) How much additional traffic, in the peak direction, can be accommodated before the freeway

reaches capacity?