Each year, the city conducts a number of traffic counts at various signalized intersections. These counts typically focus on the morning and afternoon peak periods and give us the number of vehicles that turn right, left or continue through an intersection.

By using a specialized computer program, we are able to analyze how well an intersection operates, taking into consideration such things as traffic volumes, signal timings and the number of lanes.

Based on a calculation, known as the Level of Service (LOS), we are able to assign a letter grade, ranging from an A to an F, to each location based on the amount of delay that a driver would experience. (LOS A is good; it means traffic is free-flowing. LOS F is bad; it means traffic is very congested and may be gridlocked. LOS D is typically considered acceptable in most cities, including OP, for peak hour operations).

When intersections become LOS E or LOS F, various strategies are considered to improve the situation. Sometimes these are short-term solutions, such as adjusting the signal timings, while others are long-term, such as widening the roadway or adding a turn lane.

The following maps detail the current Levels of Service for the morning and afternoon peak periods:

• 2007 Level of Service - Morning (.pdf file)
• 2007 Level of Service - Afternoon (.pdf file)

If you have any questions, please contact Brian Shields, city traffic engineer, at 913/895-6024.