Sub-problem 2c: Analysis of the South Section of Krome Avenue (Class I Signalized Arterial Facility)

Step 2. Results

The estimated LOS for the facility defined by this section is B, because the design-hour volume (812 vph) falls below the upper limit of the LOS B threshold (860 vph). There is no LOS A threshold given in Exhibit 10-7 for any class of facility, indicating that LOS A is never attainable under any circumstances.

Does the absence of a threshold in Exhibit 10-7 suggest that LOS A does not exist for signalized arterials? To answer this question, we must refer to the assumed operating parameters upon which the service volumes are based. We can see immediately that the operation could be improved by making more favorable assumptions for nearly all of the parameters. For example, we could increase the saturation flow rate or the effective g/c ratio. By making our assumptions more favorable, we could very well achieve LOS A. What HCM Exhibit 10-7 is telling us is that LOS A is difficult to achieve on typical signalized arterials with average conditions.

In this sub-problem, the estimates of the LOS for the facility defined by the south section of Krome Avenue have been produced assuming that it operates with the characteristics of typical signalized arterials of the same class. In sub-problem 3c, we will examine the assumptions and substitute observed values for this facility to apply the more detailed operational procedures.