As the publication of the updated Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) approaches, McTrans is hard at work implementing the changes and expansions within the Highway Capacity Software (HCS7).  One of the most significant additions to the HCM procedures is the analysis of Alternative Intersections and Interchanges.

Alternative Intersections are being implemented within the Streets module to provide for the analysis of Displaced Left Turn (DLT), Restricted Crossing U-Turn (RCUT), Median U-Turn (MUT) intersections and Diverging Diamond Interchanges (DDI).  Currently, the DLT and MUT applications have been added, with RCUT nearing completion now.  These three intersection designs use supplemental intersections to provide for alternate paths for side-street left and/or thru movements to improve the overall efficiency of the distributed intersection.

For more information on HCS7 and other products at the McTrans Center contact Bill Sampson, P.E. at bsampson@ufl.edu or at 352.294.3095.