TRANSPORT IMPLICATIONS OF ROAD GEOMETRY

Road features such as horizontal and vertical curvature, design speed, gradients, type of road and number of lanes, have a direct impact on road safety, travel time, quality of service, fuel consumption, aesthetics and economy. A computer assisted procedure called RODES has been developed by NITRR, with particular regard to local conditions and practice. The logical background of RODES is described, its main technical features explained, and the first results and experiences discussed. Some observations on the relationship between the amount of traffic, gradients, the cost of construction and vehicle operation are also presented. (TRRL)