Topic outline

  • Principles of Rural Roadway Design Standards and Constraints

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course explores the foundational principles, standards, and unique challenges associated with the design and planning of rural roadway systems. Unlike urban corridors, rural roads require distinct considerations in terms of geometry, right-of-way, traffic flow, safety, materials, and maintenance due to lower traffic volumes, longer travel distances, limited funding, and varied terrain. 

    This course provides a comprehensive overview of the engineering practices and regulatory guidance used in rural roadway design and equips engineers with the tools to make sound, cost-effective, and safety-conscious decisions in low-density settings.

    Topics:

    By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Understand the unique functional requirements and design parameters of rural roadways.
    • Apply AASHTO standards and FHWA guidelines to rural roadway design.
    • Evaluate geometric design elements such as lane width, shoulder design, and clear zones.
    • Incorporate topographic, environmental, and economic constraints into rural design planning.
    • Analyze the safety concerns and mitigation strategies specific to rural roads.
    • Assess material selections, drainage needs, and pavement design suited to rural conditions.
    • Design with consideration for agricultural access, emergency vehicle accommodation, and seasonal impacts.
    • Develop a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainability and long-term maintenance planning into rural road systems.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, transportation, structural, and construction engineers, as well as land development professionals involved in rural infrastructure projects. It qualifies as continuing education for licensed professional engineers across multiple disciplines. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

    • Topic 1