What does the term “capacity” refer to in a freeway segment?

The term "capacity" in the context of a freeway segment refers specifically to the maximum number of vehicles that can pass a given point on a roadway during a certain time period, typically measured in vehicles per hour per lane. This measurement is crucial for understanding and managing traffic flow, as it reflects the efficiency and operational performance of the freeway.

In practice, the capacity can be influenced by various factors, including lane width, shoulder availability, traffic controls, and conditions such as weather and accidents. By focusing on the maximum passenger cars that can be handled, traffic engineers can plan for lane expansions, traffic signal timing, and other measures to optimize road use.

Understanding capacity allows for better predictions of traffic behavior and informs effective transportation planning, ensuring that highways can accommodate current and future traffic volumes.