Federal-Aid Highway Program Guidance on High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes

摘要

The program guidance, which applies to all federally funded high occupancy vehicle (HOV) facilities, supersedes the previous version issued on March 28, 2001. The revisions are made based on feedback received and issues identified during the past seven years and the requirements set forth in Section 1121 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), which is codified at 23 U.S.C. 166. The purpose of this document is to provide information useful to States as they plan, design, operate, and manage HOV facilities. It is intended to be non-binding and should not be construed as a rule of general applicability. This document provides examples for States to follow in evaluating proposed significant changes to the operation of an HOV lane, to include conversion of an HOV lane to a High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lane. The FHWA supports HOV lanes as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option to help move people along congested urban and suburban routes. As such, FHWA regulations at 23 C.F.R. 810.102 specifically provide that HOV lanes are eligible for Federal-aid participation. In locations where existing or anticipated excess HOV lane capacity is available, conversion to a HOT lane facility is encouraged as a way to increase throughput and to provide additional travel options for drivers. As part of an overall approach to respond to increased travel demand and address traffic congestion, HOV and HOT lanes can be a practical alternative to adding more general-purpose travel lanes. The FHWA encourages the implementation of HOV or HOT lanes as an important part of an area-wide approach to help metropolitan areas address their requirements for improved mobility, safety, and productivity, while also being sensitive to environmental and quality of life issues.