American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

An arterial street is BEST described as?

1. Highway for through traffic with full or partial control of access

2. Street that provides through traffic movement on a continuous route

3. Major roadway with no access to adjacent properties

4. Local street with multiple intersections

The correct answer is: Street that provides through traffic movement on a continuous route

An arterial street is best characterized as a major roadway designed primarily to facilitate through traffic movement. It connects different areas of a city or region, allowing for the efficient transportation of vehicles over longer distances. This type of street typically prioritizes the flow of traffic, which may involve fewer intersections compared to local streets, and is strategically planned to reduce congestion and provide a more direct route for commuters. The focus on continuous route movement distinguishes arterial streets from other types of streets, which may cater more to local access or have more frequent stops. This design helps accommodate higher traffic volumes, making arterial streets crucial components of the transportation infrastructure. Understanding the function of arterial streets is important for planners when considering traffic patterns, land use, and accessibility in urban development.