Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads: Chapter 4 – Cross Section Elements (2017)

GDG Chapter 4 – Cross Section Elements offers guidance on design procedures and domains related to cross sections and related elements including special purpose lanes, shoulders, medians, outer separations and boulevards, curb and gutter and drainage; and presents considerations for bridges and utility placement, snow storage and future widening, as well as typical cross sections.

TAC’s Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads (GDG) is a fundamental reference document for roadway design practitioners in Canada. It contributes to the development of regional, provincial and national road and highway systems by helping planners and designers meet the needs of road users with safety and consistency while addressing the context of local conditions and environments. The GDG addresses freeways, arterials, collectors and local roads in both urban and rural contexts, as well as special roads and facilities for walking and cycling.

The 11 chapters in the Geometric Design Guide for Canadian Roads are: 1 – Design Philosophy; 2 – Design Controls, Classification and Consistency; 3 – Alignment and Lane Configuration; 4 – Cross Section Elements; 5 – Bicycle Integrated Design; 6 – Pedestrian Integrated Design; 7 – Roadside Design; 8 – Access; 9 – Intersections; 10 – Interchanges;  and 11 – Special Roads (added in 2020).

The GDG is complemented by the Canadian Roundabout Design Guide →

GDG overview webinar recording

Buying the GDG

• Each of the 11 chapters in the GDG is available individually in either print or e-book format at the cost of $59-$69 for TAC members, $75-$89 regular price, and a special rate of $39 (e-book only) for full-time students*.
• A package of all 11 chapters is sold in either print or e-book format for $575 for TAC members, $749 regular price, and a special rate of $225 (e-book only) for full-time students*.

*Full-time students must provide proof of eligibility. Email the TAC office your academic program name, course title, name of professor or dean, and copy of your student ID, for instructions. Call 613-736-1350 with questions.

Revisions

• Updates to technical content in chapters 2, 5, 7, 9 and 10 were included as of August 19, 2019. Summary of Revisions (pdf) →
• Chapter 11 was added in April 2020.