Park roads are not intended or designed as continuations of the state and federal high-speed highway network, nor are they designed or designated to serve as connecting links to those systems. As such, park roads cannot accommodate all types of vehicles nor can they accommodate all levels of speed. While the travel industry continues to develop new kinds of vehicles, the National Park Service is not obliged to construct roads or to manage traffic so that all forms of modern transportation technology can be accommodated. Recent transportation trends have significantly affected the use of National Park Service roads. There have been substantial increases in the numbers of recreational vehicles, bicycles, tour buses, and smaller less powerful automobiles using park roads within the past few decades. The growth in popularity of recreational vehicles (which are characterized by greater dimensions, slower operation, and, frequently, inexperienced drivers) is a relatively recent phenomenon. The recreational vehicle (to include tour buses) represents a significant element in the traffic service and road design requirements on park roads. Design of park roads should reflect, to the extent possible where such vehicles are permitted, the fact that recreational vehicles have very different operational and safety characteristics than automobiles.
The growth in absolute numbers of recreational vehicles and tour busses on park roads has serious safety implications resulting from large numbers of long, wide vehicles operating on relatively narrow roads. The resultant increase in the number of repeated heavy-axle loadings is also detrimental to the service life of road pavements that were not originally designed for continuous use of such large, heavy vehicles.
When the condition of park roads is examined, a determination of the size and types of vehicles that can be safely accommodated is calculated and vehicle sizes and limits are sometimes established. In some instances, it is desirable for vehicles exceeding these limits to be restricted from a particular road or road segment, rather than reconstruct roads to higher standards. Such reconstruction may result in unacceptable consequences to park resources. Where vehicle restrictions are encouraged, appropriate alternatives include but are not limited to: restricting vehicle traffic beyond specific points; providing turn-arounds and parking areas for larger vehicles; reducing speed limits; and/or providing alternate transportation means.
Safeguarding visitor safety, providing quality recreation opportunities, and conducting sound planning and resource protection and management are paramount National Park Service goals. It is with these principles that National Park Service road standards have been developed to provide definitive guidelines for those involved in making decisions affecting traffic service and circulation of park visitors.
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