Under base conditions, what is generally considered to be freeway capacity?

Freeway capacity under base conditions refers to the maximum number of vehicles that can pass a given point on the freeway under ideal conditions, typically expressed in passenger cars per hour per lane. The widely accepted range for freeway capacity is around 1,900 to 2,200 passenger cars per hour per lane, with optimal conditions suggesting higher bounds in less congested and well-maintained situations.

The correct answer falls within this range, indicating that under ideal conditions, a single lane of a freeway can handle between 1,900 to 2,000 passenger cars per hour. This figure is based on various studies and traffic analysis models that account for factors such as vehicle size, driver behavior, roadway geometry, and traffic flow characteristics.

Understanding this capacity is crucial for traffic planning, design, and managing roadway performance. This capacity range helps engineers ensure that infrastructure can accommodate expected traffic volumes, minimizing congestion and enhancing safety on the roadway. Recognizing this baseline allows transportation professionals to make informed decisions when analyzing traffic data and developing strategies to optimize the performance of the freeway system.