4.1Cross Section#

Cross-section width of a temporary road can significantly impact both the costs of the construction of the temporary road and the constructability of the works in constrained sites. Increased cross-section width in these sites reduces the available width for construction activities potentially increasing construction inefficiencies and consequent costs. Project managers from a range of Transport and Main Roads projects identified that even small reductions in width of the temporary alignment could have significant beneficial impacts on constructability of the works in constrained situation.

The three key cross section design elements considered most relevant to the design of temporary roads, and in potentially reducing the width of the cross section are lane widths, shoulder widths and edge clearances. Shoulder widths and edge clearances are discussed together due to the close inter-relationship between these design parameters. All three parameters need to be considered together for potential design exceptions for cross section width to avoid combinations which lead to significant potential negative safety outcomes.