(Blue Diamond Road) Corridor Study - Regional Transportation ...

6. SR-160 Corridor Improvement Plan RTC SR-160 Corridor Study
turn lane approaching the intersection. The signal for this dedicated lane goes green
several seconds prior to the signal for the general traffic lanes, enabling the bus to pass
through the intersection ahead of other vehicles.
There are two possible configurations for these intersections. As shown in EXHIBIT 6-3, the
first has separate right-turn and queue-jumping lanes, which requires the bicycle and rightturn
lanes to weave prior to the intersection. (This is not an uncommon configuration.) The
second combines the right-turn and queue-jumping lanes, resulting in a narrower design;
efficient signal timing can help ensure that the right turn lane will be clear of automobiles
before the bus receives a green signal at the intersection. Both configurations fit within the
200-foot SR-160 corridor.
The implementation of one option over the other would be
decided on a case-by-case basis, and is generally predicated on the number of vehicles
expected to be making right turns at the intersection.
The AASHTO Park & Ride Guide
states that an exclusive bus lane should be considered when right-turn volumes are greater
than 400 vehicles per hour. 11
EXHIBIT 6-3: Possible Right-Turn / Queue-Jump Lane Configurations
Separate right-turn
and queue-jump lanes
Combined right-turn
and queue-jump lane
BUS
ONLY
BUS
ONLY
These same lane configuration options could be used when there is a bus stop or a driveway
into a Park & Ride at the far side of the intersection. Although the lane configuration would
be the same, there would be no need for an early green signal since buses could enter a
short transit-only lane on the far side of the intersection prior to entering the facility.
11 “Guide for Park & Ride Facilities”, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, November
2004, p. 53
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