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57 <br /> lib <br /> 1.4 Traffic Operations and Quality of Service <br /> There are a variety of ways to measure the performance of a transportation facility.Transportation professionals typically <br /> rely on guidance from the Highway Capacity Manual,which describes performance from the traveler point of view that is <br /> designed to be useful to roadway operators,decisions makers, and member of the community.Individuals may travel <br /> along US 70 via personal vehicle,walking,bicycling,or via transit,each of which can be quantitatively measured using <br /> standard criteria such as delay, average speed,percent time spent following,or other measures.The dominant form of <br /> transportation currently along US 70 is by automobile.As a result,this section covers traffic operations along the corridor <br /> on a corridor basis(i.e.distinguishable segments with common roadway characteristics),as well as by individual <br /> intersections.Given the low volume of pedestrian and bicycle trips,and the lack of dedicated facilities,providing a <br /> meaningful assessment of bicycle level-of-service is difficult;however, deficiencies and opportunities can be identified. <br /> The conventional concept of traffic,level-of-service(LOS) can be summarized—at least qualitatively—in Figure 18.More <br /> detailed, qualitative tables are presented in subsequent sections.Generally,LOS D is acceptable in most rural and <br /> suburban situations.In some highly urbanized settings,or where there are unacceptable environmental/community <br /> impacts,excessive costs, or other policy or planning objectives,LOS E can be appropriate. <br /> Figure 18: Level of Service Illustration <br /> QUALITY OF TRAFFIC FLOW DECREASES <br /> Considered an acceptable LOS <br /> LOS A LOS •S C LOS ! LOSE LOS <br /> • Light traffic Slightly . Approaching • Speeds • Congestion . Road at <br /> increased moderate reduced! capacity <br /> • Free flow irregular <br /> speeds traffic levels congestion . Lane traffic flow . Gridlock <br /> • Still free flow levels changes with <br /> speeds . Speeds near restricted frequent <br /> free flow due to traffic stops <br /> 55 US 70 Multimodal Corridor Study Existing Conditions Report <br />