What is a key characteristic of arterial roads?

Arterial roads are designed primarily to facilitate the movement of large volumes of traffic over longer distances, connecting major urban areas, regions, and significant intersections. A key characteristic is their role in providing efficient transportation routes that accommodate higher speed limits, which enhances the flow of traffic and reduces congestion on these vital thoroughfares.

These roads often function as major pathways that support both local and regional travel, emphasizing through traffic rather than local access. This design contrasts with local roads, which prioritize direct access to neighborhoods and lower traffic volumes. Arterial roads typically have fewer access points to maintain their speed and efficiency, underscoring their purpose in the overall transportation network.