Roadway Functional Classification System

Functional classification is the process by which the nation's network of streets and highways are categorized according to the type of service they provide. It represents the function of a roadway based on several factors including volume of traffic and types of trips served. 

Functional classification is used in transportation planning, roadway design and the allocation of federal roadway improvement funds. It was introduced by the Federal Highway Administration in the late 1960s, which developed federal guidelines for local governments and planning organizations to use in maintaining the functional classification system in their own jurisdictions.

Functional Classification Process

As the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Kansas City region, it is MARC's responsibility to develop and maintain the functional classification system of roadways within its planning boundaries through coordination with local cities, counties and the state departments of transportation.

Functional Classification Process FHWA's Guidance on Highway Functional Classification Concepts, Criteria and Procedures PowerPoint: Functional Classification System overview and process for changes
Layer Title
Spring 2026 Call for Changes schedule
Table
Month Process
May Spring call for changes opens on May 15.
July Deadline to submit changes to MARC is July 10.
July-September MARC staff and State DOTs review requested changes for compliance with federal classification guidance and draft recommendations. Recommendations are reviewed and shared with each requesting jurisdiction.
August Recommendations presented for approval at the Technical Advisory Committee on Oct. 10
August-September Changes approved by the TAC are presented for approval at the Total Transportation Planning Committee and MARC Board meetings on Oct. 20 and Oct. 27 (respectively) Final Board approved changes are submitted to the State DOTs who then submit to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Functional Classification map & resources

Current Functional Classification map
Functional Classification Tool Portal Field Descriptions
Spring 2024 requested changes to the Functional Class System
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