PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The portion of US Highway 16 proposed for study is a limited access, principal arterial street. It functions as a major business and tourism route through Rapid City, as well as a regional road. Based on the topography and anticipated development in the surrounding area, US Highway 16 will also carry the majority of future local traffic generated within this corridor. Therefore it is critical that the surrounding land use and transportation network is compatible with the design and function of US Highway 16. The consultant will consider the feasibility of the proposed road network outlined by the proposed Major Street Plan and the Future Land Use Committee, and make recommendations on the network. Although other infrastructure analyses (i.e. water, sewer, drainage, storm sewer) is not a component of this study, utilities should be a consideration when evaluating the street network layout within the study area.

The primary goals of this study in regard to the US Highway 16 Corridor are: 1) to reduce accidents and ensure future traffic safety; 2) maintain an acceptable level of service; and, 3) preserve capacity of US Highway 16. These goals are to be met while promoting appropriate land use and an adequate street network for the surrounding area.

A major component of this analysis will be the consideration of access locations and access management of US Highway 16. The consultant will specifically examine traffic signal locations and spacing along the entire US Highway 16 corridor study area; including, but not limited to the intersections located at Alta Vista Heights, US 16B (Catron Blvd.) and Neck Yoke Road (Reptile Gardens intersection). Recommendations shall also be made regarding the short and long-term function of the existing frontage road on the west side of US Highway 16, and suggested alternatives for its use; as well as, recommendations for a proposed frontage road on the east side of US Highway 16.