What is a primary consideration in the design of street alignments?

In the design of street alignments, grades and widths of easements are a primary consideration because they directly affect the functionality, safety, and overall efficiency of the roadway. Properly designed easements accommodate not only the road itself but also utilities and drainage needs, ensuring that the street can effectively manage stormwater and provide necessary infrastructure access.

The widths of easements are crucial for ensuring that there is sufficient space for maintenance and emergency services, while grades must be carefully calculated to prevent issues such as flooding and to facilitate safe vehicle movement. Consistent grading can also enhance visibility for drivers and promote effective road drainage, reducing the likelihood of accidents.

While other factors like the width of traffic lanes, location of traffic signals, and number of sidewalks are important in their own right, they typically fall under the broader umbrella of considerations that rely heavily on the foundational aspects of easement design. Without properly structured grades and widths for easements, the entire design and operation of the road could be compromised.