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21st Century Operations Using 21st Century Technologies

How is Access Management Achieved?

Access Management

Access management is achieved through the application of these planning, regulatory, and design strategies.

  • Policies, directives, and guidelines issued by state and local agencies having permit authority on development and roadway infrastructure improvements.
  • Regulations, codes, and guidelines that are enforceable.
  • Acquisition of access rights by states and local jurisdictions that serve to protect transportation interests and enable sufficient infrastructure is built.
  • Land development regulations by state and local jurisdictions that address property access and related issues.
  • Development review and impact assessments by state and local jurisdictions.
  • Good geometric design of transportation facilities
  • Understanding of access implications by businesses and property owners.

Some property owners and some local planners or permit agencies do not always consider the full effects of introducing driveways or minor streets. Further, local entities often perceive economic damage when some access management techniques are proposed, i.e., closing median breaks, relocating driveways, or limiting the number of access points. Continuous education, case studies and examples are needed to show that carefully planned development can coexist with good access management. It is important to show that well-planned access helps maintain property values while fulfilling the FHWA role of promoting safe and efficient transportation for the general public. Public and business community involvement is essential. Effective interaction is crucial to the success of the implementation of the project.

A second challenge to implementing Access Management is its low tech/low cost nature. It is often overlooked in favor of costlier solutions. An effective new activity herein would be to market AM strategies to national and local business associations, thereby educating them that good practice can coexist with healthy businesses, and increasing their acceptance and demand for such applications.