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

Functional Classification Map

MARC maintains an interactive web map of the Functional Classification System that allows users to zoom in on an area of interest and turn on additional informational layers. During a call for changes to the system, jurisdictions can review existing classifications as well as propose changes or new classifications using this map. MARC issues a Call for Changes to the Functional Classification System twice a year.

Functional Classification Map

Functional Classification Tool Portal Field Description

FHWA's Guidance on Highway Functional Classification Concepts, Criteria and Procedures

Layer Title

2023 Fall Call for Changes Schedule

Table

Month	Process
July	Fall Call for Changes opens July 17. Formal announcements at the Total Transportation Policy Committee (TTPC) (July 18) and Highway Committee Meeting (July 26)
August	Deadline to submit changes to MARC is August 14 .
September – November	MARC staff and State DOTs review requested changes for compliance with federal classification guidance. Recommendations are presented at the Highway Committee Meeting: November 22 Note: Highway Committee approval is required for recommended changes to go before TTPC.
December	Changes approved by the Highway Committee are presented for approval at the TTPC Meeting: December 19 TTPC approved changes are submitted to the State DOTs and states submit to FHWA.

The spring 2024 Call for Changes will be held from January through June. A detailed schedule will be announced later.