BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

MoTI Section 400 TAC Section Not Applicable

400    CROSS SECTIONS CHAPTER 
410  CROSS SECTIONS ........................................................................................................... 410‐1 
430  CROSS SECTION ELEMENTS ........................................................................................... 430‐1 
440  TYPICAL RURAL SECTIONS FOR BC ................................................................................. 440‐1 
450  TYPICAL URBAN SECTIONS FOR BC ................................................................................ 450‐1 

400  CROSS SECTION CHAPTER
TABLES
430.A    Cross Section Elements ..................................................................................................... 430‐1 
430.B    Design Widths for Shoulder Bikeways .............................................................................. 430‐1 

400  CROSS SECTION CHAPTER
FIGURES 
440.A    Typical Section – Rural Local Undivided ........................................................................... 440‐1 
440.B    Typical Section – Rural Collector and Arterial .................................................................. 440‐2 
440.C    Typical Section – Rural Freeway/Expressway ‐ No Development to 6 Lanes ................... 440‐3 
440.D    Typical Section – Rural Freeway/Expressway ‐ With Development to 6 Lanes ................ 440‐4 
440.E    Alternate Shoulder Detail – Pavement Depth Reduction ................................................. 440‐5 
440.F    Shoulder Detail with Roadside Barrier or Drainage Curb ................................................. 440‐6 
440.G    Typical Wall Sections ........................................................................................................ 440‐7 
440.H    Solid Rock Cut Sections ..................................................................................................... 440‐8 
440.I    Disposal of Waste Excavation  .......................................................................................... 440‐9 
 
450.A    Typical Urban Fill Section .................................................................................................. 450‐1 
450.B    Typical Urban Cut Section ................................................................................................. 450‐2 

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MoTI Section 400 TAC Section Not Applicable

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BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE
MoTI Section 410 TAC Section Not Applicable

410
CROSS SECTIONS
410.01 INTRODUCTION Submissions  for  the  purpose  of  design  reviews  are 
often  provided  as  half  size  copies  on  11”  x  17” 
The  following  deals  with  the  production  of  cross 
sheets.    Adobe  PDF  files  are  also  convenient  for 
sections,  which  form  part  of  the  information  for 
review.    Contact  the  appropriate  regional  Senior 
construction  contracts.    Because  of  the  variety  of 
Highway Design Engineer to verify what format will 
designs,  universal  statements  about  the  content  of 
be acceptable for design reviews. 
cross  sections  are  difficult;  therefore,  this  is  a 
general discussion.  For  rural  projects,  use  a  natural  scale  of  1:100  or 
1:250 for both horizontal and vertical. 
Cross sections provide a third dimension to plan and 
profile  that  ties  the  horizontal  and  vertical  Urban projects usually require the larger horizontal 
alignment  to  the  ground.    They  are  used  for  such  scale  of  1:100.    The  vertical  scale  may  be 
purposes as:  exaggerated and is normally 1:50.  A scale of 1:25 is 
optional where needed. 
•  Identifying  areas  of  conflict  due  to  the 
interaction  of  the  design  template  and  the  The  major  grid  shall  typically  be  at  5  m  intervals, 
existing ground.  although  10  m  may  be  used  on  mountainous 
•  Helping to identify R/W requirements.  projects. 
•  Determining  embankment  and  excavation  The  control  line  of  the  cross  sections  should  align 
project quantities.  with a major grid line. 
•  Determining various roadway design features  Rural  spacing  for  plotted  cross  sections  shall  be  no 
such  as  drainage  curbs,  roadside  barrier,  greater than 20 m on tangents and curves, with    10 
ditching and cross culvert locations, etc.  m  spacing  for  rock  sections  and  5  m  spacing  at 
•  Assisting  Construction  supervisors  to  better  retaining  walls  and  other  critical  areas.    Cross 
understand  the  designer’s  intent  for  such  sections  at  horizontal  alignment  curve  and  spiral 
things as driveways, structures and drainage.  transition  stations  should  also  be  included.    The 
•  Assisting  contractors  in  the  bidding  process  design cross section spacing requirements specified 
for  evaluating  station  to  station  quantities,  in Section 1280.10.05.01.02 of the Civil 3D Terms of 
cut and fill slopes, and potential construction  Reference  Project  Data  Format  and  Workflow 
problems.  Requirements must be followed.  This may result in 
significantly  more  closely  spaced  cross  sections  for 
410.02 FORMAT design  purposes;  however,  the  final  plotted  cross 
Cross sections may be plotted on roll stock or D size  sections do not necessarily have to include all of the 
sheets.  On roll stock, each end of the roll will have  design cross sections. 
the  same  information  as  shown  on  the  title  or  key  Urban spacing shall be 10 m for both tangents and 
page  of  the  contract  drawings.    Each  L‐line  shall  curves  with  5  m  spacing  at  retaining  walls.    Cross 
start a new stack.  sections at accesses and other critical areas may be 
On D size cut sheets, there shall be a title page with  needed to provide additional information. 
the  same  information  as  above.    Each  page  shall  The  cross  sections  are  plotted  with  the  chainage 
identify  the  L‐line  and/or  road  name  or  structure  increasing  from  the  bottom  of  the  page  to  the  top 
that  the  sections  represent.    Each  L‐line  shall  start  for each stack. 
with a new stack. 

April, 2019 Page 410-1

SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE BC MoTI
MoTI Section 410 TAC Section Not Applicable

410.03 CONTENT •  Show typical location of utility poles once per 

stack, if generally parallel. 
Existing Features: 
•  Clear zone limit, where applicable. 
The  following  list  is  included  as  an  example  of  the 
type of information typically needed to identify the  •  Indicate  the  foreslope,  backslope  and  fill 
existing  features.    The  uniqueness  of  each  project  slope  values  once  per  stack  and  each  time 
will  determine  what  information  needs  to  be  the slopes change. 
shown.  •  Structures  (e.g.,  retaining  walls,  endwall, 
•  Existing ground line with features identified.  fences,  buildings,  etc.)  within  the  proposed 
R/W. 
•  Original ground elevation at the control line. 
•  Provide  necessary  information  on  the 
•  Station of each cross section.  composition  and  staging  of  embankments 
•  Existing R/W boundaries.  (e.g., lightweight core, surcharge, etc.). 
•  Existing utilities and drainage (e.g. access and  •  Sound berms with slopes and elevation. 
cross culverts).  •  Drainage  information  (e.g.,  drainage  arrows 
•  Structures  (e.g.,  retaining  walls,  endwall,  to indicate flow direction). 
fences, buildings, etc.).  •  Curb and gutter. 
•  All  accesses  –  a  cross  section  at  each  •  Roadside and median barrier. 
centreline.  
•  Side  roads  –  a  cross  section  at  each  Special Sections: 
centreline.  Identify the road.  •  Special  sections  shall  be  interspersed  as 
required  to  pick  up  other  features  such  as 
Proposed Features:  ground  breaks  and  changes  in  ground  type 
The  following  list  is  included  as  an  example  of  the  (i.e., change from Type A to Type D material 
type of information typically needed to transmit the  as  defined  in  Standard  Specification  201.11) 
intent of the design.  The uniqueness of each design  and accesses, etc. 
will determine exactly what information needs to be  •  Cross  sections  at  creek  crossings,  existing 
shown.  large culverts with drainage channels, etc. 
•  Finished  grade  line  and  cross  fall  with  •  Cross sections at critical control points. 
proposed  elevation  at  centreline  or  control 
line.  Optional Useful Information: 
•  Complete  roadway  structure  and  subgrade  •  Areas and volumes (cut and fill) for each type 
cross fall if different from finished grade.  of material, excluding pavement and gravels, 
should be shown on the cross sections.  This 
•  Elevations of toe of fill slope and lowest ditch 
data  can  assist  the  contractors  in  preparing 
point. 
their bid. 
•  Proposed R/W boundaries. 
•  Properties Branch may request cross sections 
•  Stratum lines and stripping.  at property boundaries.
•  Drainage  and  utility  locations,  except  utility 
pole lines. 

Page 410-2 April, 2019

BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE
MoTI Section 430 TAC Section 4 and 5.3.2.5

430
CROSS SECTION ELEMENTS
Table  430.A  summarizes  the  cross  section  elements  for  BC  highways  according  to  Design  Speed,  Classification 
and Design Volumes.  (Also refer to Figures 440.A through 440.H).  See Section 620 for Clear Zone discussion. 
Table 430.A  Cross Section Elements 

Road  Total  Lane  Paved  Design  Normal  Fill 

2
Class  Design  Width  Shoulder  Speed    X‐Fall  Slope 
1
Volume  (m)  Width    (km/h)  (desirable) 
(m) 
3
LVR    ≤ 200 ADT  Refer to  0.5 Gravel  30‐90  Refer to  2 to 1 
Section  Section 
3 3
510    510   
4
RLU    3.6    1.0    50‐80    4 to 1 
5
  ≤ 450 DHV      1.5  50‐80     
RCU    3.6        4 to 1 
5
  > 450 DHV      1.5  60‐90     
RCD    3.6  2.5  60‐90    4 or 5 to 1 
5
  < 200 DHV    3.6  1.5  70‐90  0.02 m/m   
5
RAU  ≤ 450 DHV    3.6  2.0  70‐90    4 or 5 to 1 
5
  > 450 DHV    3.6  2.5  80‐100     
RAD    3.7  3.0  80‐100    4 or 5 to 1 
RED    3.7  3.0  80‐120    4 or 5 to 1 
RFD    3.7  3.0  80‐120    4 or 5 to 1 
 
1 Minimum width is 1.5 m for Shoulder Bikeway when applicable.  See Table 430.B below. 
2 Justification is required where less than the maximum design speed for each classification is selected, except 
for RED and RFD where justification is required for a design speed less than 110 km/h. 
3 See Section 510 for Low‐volume Roads details. 
4 Typical minimum shoulder width required to nearest edge of roadside barrier is 1.3 m. 
5 On a typical rural highway, the DHV is about 15% of the ADT. 

Table 430.B  Design Widths for Shoulder Bikeways 
Controlling Condition  Minimum Design 
Width (m) 
For Most Cases, except as below  1.5 
For Design Speed ≥ 70 km/h and SADT > 5,000  2.0 
For Design Speed > 80 km/h and SADT > 10,000  2.5 
All Freeways and Expressways  3.0 

 The travel lane(s) next to a shoulder bikeway should be at least 3.6 m wide 
 SADT = Summer Average Daily Traffic (July and August). 

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MoTI Section 430 TAC Section 4 and 5.3.2.5

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Page 430-2 April, 2019

 N.T.S.

April, 2019
If possible, place poles on cut backslope.
BC MoTI

In fill, maximize offset for safety.

L.E.

L.E.
MoTI Section

Note 10 ℄ Note 11
Min.
1.0 Clear Zone Width ≥ Clear Zone Width
3.0 Note 1 Note 1
Gravel Shoulder

P.E.
beyond Note 4

P.E.
Note 4 Gravel Note 10(b)
toe W = 4 x (Depth of AP) W 1.0 3.6 Lane 3.6 Lane 1.0 W Shoulder 3.0 min.
440

Min. W = 0.5
} Variable depth AP (Note 7) -0.02 m/m in Tangent Shouldering e
Note Aggregate :1 lop
10(c) Note 9 1.0 1.0 1.5 cks
Break 4:1 Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 2) 4:1 B a
Point 20:1 3:1 1 Outside Ditch
(Note 5) Typically 150 mm of 25 mm CBC 1
Note Point
1 Typically 150 mm of either 75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC 300 mm min.
nal .5: Where material is appropriate,
Optio .1 8 SGSB 300 mm Minimum in Soil (Set at ℄)
x 20:1 ditch slope is extended
Ma ote SGSB 150 mm Minimum in Rock (Set at ℄) } to accomplish side borrow
N
(Refer to Pavement Structure Design Guidelines T-01/15) when required
EARTH CUT SECTION
EARTH FILL SECTION

Notes: Terms:
AP Asphalt Pavement
1. See Table 430.A for lane and shoulder widths. CBC Crushed Base Course
2. Tangent subgrade may be increased to -0.03 or -0.04 m/m in earth to facilitate drainage, SGSB Select Granular Sub Base
L.E. Lane Edge
but only when directed by Geotechnical Staff.
Figure 440.A Typical Section - Rural Local Undivided

P.E. Pavement Edge

3. For rock ditch details, see Figure 440.H ESAL Equivalent Single Axle Load
4. For roadside barrier, 1.3 m is required to the nearest edge of barrier.
5. These are typical gravel depths to be used in the absence of a specific geotechnical recommendation.
6. Design Speeds 50 - 80 km/h.
7. Type "B", 100,000 to 20,000,000 ESALs, use 75 mm to 150 mm of AP;
or Type "C", < 100,000 ESALs, use 50 mm to 75 mm of AP.
TAC Section

8. Fill slopes should be as flat as possible and no steeper than 1.5:1. Geotechnical recommendations may
specify a maximum slope flatter than 2:1. Desirable is 4:1 or flatter.
9. Rounding or "smoothing" at Break Point to be done during construction.
10. Clear Zone is a function of Speed and Traffic Volume. Clear Zone Width to be in accordance with the
requirements in Section 620. Utilities should be located outside of the Clear Zone. The desirable location of
utility poles shall be, in order of preference: (a) min. 2 m beyond top of cut, (b) min. 3 m beyond lowest ditch
point, (c) min. 3 m beyond toe of fill. See the current edition of the Ministry's Utility Policy Manual for
Figure 4.13.2

additional placement guidelines.

11. The 3:1 ditch slope is not mandatory. A single backslope may be used starting at the low point of the ditch.
Achieving clear zone width is desirable, but if the backslope is relatively smooth and obstacle-free, it may not
be a significant hazard, regardless of its distance from the roadway.
SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

Page 440-1
 EARTH FILL SECTION EARTH CUT SECTION

L.E.
L.E.
N.T.S.
Utility Setback, Note 3 (c) Utility Setback, Note 3 (a),(b)
1.0 Clear Zone Width, Note 3 ≥ Clear Zone Width, Note 10
Note 3 (a)

Page 440-2
Gravel Shoulder Note 3 (b)

P.E.
Note 1 Note 1

P.E.
Note 1
℄ Note 1 Gravel
3.0
2.0
W = 4 x (Depth of AP) W Lane Lane W Shoulder Min.
MoTI Section

} Shoulder Variable depth AP (Note 8) Shoulder Shouldering Min.

Min. W = 0.5 -0.02 m/m
Aggregate
Note 3 (c) Note 2 9 4:1* 1.0* 1.0 e
Break Note lop
3.0
Note latter
rF 9 c ks
Point 4:1 o
Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5)
Ba
Min. 20:1 3:1
Typically 150 mm of 25 mm CBC 10
(Note 7)
440

300 mm min. Note Outside Ditch

Typically 150 mm of either 75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC * Slope should be flattened or Point
nal x. ditch widened where needed Inside Ditch Point
Optio Ma 5:1 SGSB 300 mm Minimum in Soil (Set at ℄) Where material is
1. } to ensure that Outside Ditch
SGSB 150 mm Minimum in Rock (Set at ℄) appropriate, 20:1 ditch
Point is ≥ Clear Zone.
(Refer to Pavement Structure Design Guidelines T-01/15) slope is extended to
Toe of Fill
accomplish side borrow
UNDIVIDED COLLECTOR OR ARTERIAL when required.

L.E.
Utility Setback, Note 3 (c)
0.9
1.0 Clear Zone Width, Note 3

L.E.
P.E.

Note 1 Note 1 Note 1 ℄ Note 4 Note 1 Note 1 Note 1

Gravel Shoulder W Lane Lane 1.3 1.3 Lane Lane 0.6
Shoulder Shoulder
W = 4 x (Depth of AP)
Min. W = 0.5
} Variable depth AP (Note 8) -0.02 m/m Shouldering
Aggregate
Note 2 9 1.5
Break Note latter
F Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5) :1
Point 4:1 or
(Note 7) Typically 150 mm of 25 mm CBC
nal 300 mm min.
Optio Typically 150 mm of either 75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC
x.
Ma 5:1 SGSB 300 mm Minimum in Soil (Set at ℄) ROCK DITCH
1. }
SGSB 150 mm Minimum in Rock (Set at ℄)
(Refer to Pavement Structure Design Guidelines T-01/15) DIVIDED COLLECTOR OR ARTERIAL

Notes:

1. See Table 430.A for Lane and Shoulder Widths.

Figure 440.B Typical Section - Rural Collector and Arterial
SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

2. Rounding or "smoothing" at Break Point to be done during construction.

3. Clear Zone is a function of Speed and Traffic Volume. Clear Zone Width to be in accordance with the requirements in Section 620. Utilities
should be located outside of the Clear Zone. The desirable location of utility poles shall be, in order of preference: (a) min. 2 m beyond top
of cut, (b) min. 3 m beyond lowest ditch point, (c) min. 3 m beyond toe of fill. See the current edition of the Ministry's Utility Policy Manual for
additional placement guidelines.
TAC Section

4. Minimum half-width is 1.3 m from Lane Edge to Centreline. Check for SSD along median barrier on curves. Median barrier may not be Terms:
required on 4-Lane Collectors or Arterials with low volumes and is not generally used on 2-Lane Collectors or Arterials. AP Asphalt Pavement
5. Tangent subgrade may be increased to -0.03 or -0.04 m/m in earth to facilitate drainage, but only when directed by Geotechnical Staff. CBC Crushed Base Course
SGSB Select Granular Sub Base
6. See Figure 440.F through 440.H for Barrier/Drainage Curb, Retaining Wall and Rock Ditch Details. L.E. Lane Edge
P.E. Pavement Edge
7. These are "typical" gravel depths to be used in the absence of a specific Geotechnical recommendation.
ESAL Equivalent Single Axle Load
8. Type "A", ≥ 20,000,000 ESALs, use min. 150 mm of AP; or Type "B", 100,000 to 20,000,000 ESALs, use 75 mm to 150 mm of AP. Where
pavement is ≥ 100 mm, full depth extends only 0.6 m into the paved shoulder, depending on shoulder width. See Figure 440.E for this
Alternate Shoulder Detail.
9. Ditch slopes and fill slopes steeper than 4:1 must be evaluated for barrier need.
10. The 3:1 ditch slope is not mandatory. A single backslope may be used starting at the low point of the ditch. Achieving clear zone width is desirable,
Figures 4.13.4, 6, 8 & 10

but if the backslope is relatively smooth and obstacle-free, it may not be a significant hazard, regardless of its distance from the roadway.

April, 2019
BC MoTI
 4 LANE NARROW MEDIAN
MEDIAN BARRIER PLACEMENT

N.T.S.
℄

L.E.
L.E.
1.3 1.3

April, 2019
Note 4
BC MoTI
MoTI Section

EARTH FILL SECTION EARTH CUT SECTION

L.E.
L.E.
Utility Setback, Note 3 Utility Setback, Note 3
Clear Zone Width ℄ ≥ Clear Zone Width, Note 10
1.0 Paved
Paved 4 LANE DEPRESSED MEDIAN
440

P.E.

P.E.
L.E.
L.E.
L.E.
L.E.
W = 4 x (Depth of AP) Shoulder Shoulder
Min. W = 0.5 3.0 3.7 3.7 6.5 6.5 3.7 3.7 3.0
Note 1 2.2 Note 1
Shouldering W 2.2 4.3 4.3 1.5 W Shouldering
Aggregate 0.7 Profile Carried on Finished Grade Point 1.3 Aggregate
Variable depth AP (Note 8) -0.02 m/m Shouldering Agg. -0.02 m/m N
Note 2 9 4:1 ote 9 1.0 1.0
Note tter 1.5 5:1 or F
Break r Fla :1 4:1 to :1 latte
r*
Point 4:1 o 1.5 20:1 3:1
Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5)
Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5) Type D Type D 10
nal Top Soil Subgrade Hinge Point 300 mm min. Note
Optio Top Soil
(Note 7) Typically 150 mm of 25 mm CBC (min. depth 150 mm) (min. depth 150 mm) Outside
x. Inside Ditch Point
a Ditch Point
M .5:1 Typically 150 mm of either 75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC Where material is appropriate,
1 DITCH GRADE POINT - Backslope
SGSB 300 mm Minimum in Soil (Set at ℄) variable to allow for lateral and 20:1 ditch slope is extended
0.7
SGSB 150 mm Minimum in Rock (Set at ℄) } longitudinal drainage. Minimum median to accomplish side borrow
Asphalt Shouldering
Aggregate longitudinal ditch grade is 0.5%. when required
(Refer to Pavement Structure Design Guidelines T-01/15)
150 m
m
* Slope should be
flattened where needed to
ensure that Outside Ditch
Profile Carried on Point is ≥ Clear Zone.
Finished Grade Point

Notes:
Terms:
1. Shoulder Widths are typically 3.0 m. Exceptions permitted with sign-off by Chief Engineer.
See Fig. 440.E for Alternate Shoulder Detail using 50 mm or 75 mm of AP. AP Asphalt Pavement
CBC Crushed Base Course
2. Rounding or "smoothing" at Break Point to be done during construction. SGSB Select Granular Sub Base
L.E. Lane Edge
3. Clear Zone is a function of Speed and Traffic Volume. Clear Zone Width to be in accordance with the requirements in Section 620. P.E. Pavement Edge
Utilities should be located outside of the Clear Zone. The desirable location of utility poles shall be, in order of preference: (a) min. 2 m ESAL Equivalent Single Axle Load
beyond top of cut, (b) min. 3 m beyond lowest ditch point, (c) min. 3 m beyond toe of fill. See the current edition of the Ministry's Utility Type D Earth Embankment
Policy Manual for additional placement guidelines. material per SS 201.37
Figure 440.C Rural Freeway/Expressway - No Development to 6 Lanes
TAC Section

4. Minimum half-width is 1.3 m from Lane edge to Centreline. Check for SSD along median barrier on curves. Median Barrier may not be
required on Expressways or Freeways initially; allowance is made for placement at later time. Centreline radius and/or median widths
for ultimate placement of barrier are to be checked for SSD.
5. Tangent Subgrade may be increased to -0.03 or -0.04 m/m in earth to facilitate drainage, but only when directed by Geotechnical Staff.
6. See Figure 440.F through 440.H for Barrier/Drainage Curb, Retaining Wall and Rock Ditch Details.
7. These are "typical" gravel depths to be used in the absence of a specific Geotechnical recommendation.

8. Type "A", ≥ 20,000,000 ESALs, use min. 150 mm of AP; or Type "B", 100,000 to 20,000,000 ESALs, use 75 mm to 150 mm of
Figure 4.13.12

AP. Where pavement is ≥ 100 mm, full depth extends only 0.6 m into the paved shoulder, depending on shoulder width.
9. Ditch slopes and fill slopes steeper than 4:1 must be evaluated for barrier need.
10. The 3:1 ditch slope is not mandatory. A single backslope may be used starting at the low point of the ditch. Achieving clear zone width is desirable,
but if the backslope is relatively smooth and obstacle-free, it may not be a significant hazard, regardless of its distance from the roadway.
SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

Page 440-3
 6 LANE DEVELOPMENT
MEDIAN BARRIER PLACEMENT

N.T.S.
℄

L.E.
L.E.
Note 4

L.E.
L.E.
3.7 2.8 2.8 3.7

Page 440-4
2.5 2.5
MoTI Section

EARTH FILL SECTION EARTH CUT SECTION

L.E.
L.E.
Utility Setback, Note 3 Utility Setback, Note 3
Clear Zone Width ≥ Clear Zone Width, Note 10
1.0 ℄ Paved
Paved Profile Carried on
440

P.E.

P.E.
L.E.
L.E.
L.E.
L.E.
W = 4 x (Depth of AP) Shoulder Shoulder
Min. W = 0.5 3.0 3.7 3.7 6.5 6.5 3.7 3.7 3.0
Note 1 2.2 Note 1
2.2 4.3 4.3
Shouldering W 1.5 W Shouldering
Aggregate 0.7 Shouldering Agg. Aggregate
Variable depth AP (Note 8) -0.02 m/m 1.3 -0.02 m/m
1 Note 1.0 1.0
Note 2 9 Note 1 :1 4:1
Break Note tter 1.5 5 :1
or F 9
r Fla :1 4:1 to latte
r*
Point 4:1 o 1.5 20:1 3:1
Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5)
Parallel to Finished Grade (Note 5) Type D Type D 10
nal Top Soil Top Soil Subgrade Hinge Point 300 mm min. Note
Optio (Note 7) (min. depth 150 mm)
x. Typically 150 mm of 25 mm CBC (min. depth 150 mm) Inside Ditch Point Outside
a Ditch Point
M 5:1 Typically 150 mm of either 75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC Where material is appropriate,
1. DITCH GRADE POINT - variable to allow for lateral and longitudinal drainage.
SGSB 300 mm Minimum in Soil (Set at ℄) 20:1 ditch slope is extended to Backslope
Minimum median longitudinal ditch grade is 0.5%.

L.E.
SGSB 150 mm Minimum in Rock (Set at ℄) } ℄ accomplish side borrow when required
6.5
(Refer to Pavement Structure Design Guidelines T-01/15) ℄ * Side slope should be

L.E.

P.E.
6.5 flattened where needed to
0.65 0.5 Concrete
2.2 4.3 ensure that Outside Ditch
1.5 Median Barrier
1.5 Profile Carried on ℄ Point is ≥ Clear Zone.
Shouldering Agg. Profile
Carried on ℄ No ste Note 11
Stee eper
per Note 1 than
than 1 4:1
4:1

Notes: SUPERELEVATED SECTION Depth Varies

1. Shoulder Widths are typically 3.0 m. Exceptions permitted with sign-off by Chief Engineer.
See Fig. 440.E for Alternate Shoulder Detail using 50 mm or 75 mm of AP.
2. Rounding or "smoothing" at Break Point to be done during construction.
3. Clear Zone is a function of Speed and Traffic Volume. Clear Zone Width to be in accordance with the requirements in Section 620. Utilities should be
SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

located outside of the Clear Zone. The desirable location of utility poles shall be, in order of preference: (a) min. 2 m beyond top of cut, (b) min. 3 m
beyond lowest ditch point, (c) min. 3 m beyond toe of fill. See the current edition of the Ministry's Utility Policy Manual for additional placement guidelines.
4. Minimum half-width is 2.8 m from Lane edge to Centreline. Check for SSD along median barrier on curves. Median Barrier may not be required on
Expressways or Freeways initially; allowance is made for placement at later time. Centreline radius and/or median widths for ultimate placement of barrier
are to be checked for SSD.
TAC Section

5. Tangent Subgrade may be increased to -0.03 or -0.04 m/m in earth to facilitate drainage, but only when directed by Geotechnical Staff. Terms:
Figure 440.D Rural Freeway/Expressway - With Development to 6 Lanes

6. See Figure 440.F through 440.H for Barrier/Drainage Curb, Retaining Wall and Rock Ditch Details. AP Asphalt Pavement
CBC Crushed Base Course
7. These are "typical" gravel depths to be used in the absence of a specific Geotechnical recommendation. SGSB Select Granular Sub Base
8. Type "A", ≥ 20,000,000 ESALs, use min. 150 mm of AP; or Type "B", 100,000 to 20,000,000 ESALs, use 75 mm to 150 mm of AP. L.E. Lane Edge
P.E. Pavement Edge
Where pavement is ≥ 100 mm, full depth extends only 0.6 m into the paved shoulder, depending on shoulder width.
ESAL Equivalent Single Axle Load
9. Ditch slopes and fill slopes steeper than 4:1 must be evaluated for barrier need. Type D Earth Embankment
material per SS 201.37
10. The 3:1 ditch slope is not mandatory. A single backslope may be used starting at the low point of the ditch. Achieving clear zone width is desirable,
Figure 4.13.12

but if the backslope is relatively smooth and obstacle-free, it may not be a significant hazard, regardless of its distance from the roadway.
11. The depressed median ditch slope may vary between 5:1 and 4:1 on tangent sections to achieve minimum ditch grade. On superelevated sections, the
finished median slopes (i.e. with topsoil placed) should be constructed such that the slope on the high side of the road is no steeper than 4:1. If a slope
steeper than 4:1 is needed to maintain adequate ditch grade, widen the paved shoulder and install Concrete Median Barrier per the Superelevated
Section detail above left. Barrier is not needed on the low side of the road since the median slope will typically be flatter than 4:1.

April, 2019
BC MoTI
BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE
MoTI Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

Figure 440.E Alternate Shoulder Detail - Pavement Depth Reduction

N.T.S.

Variable W
Equal to Design Shoulder Width See Note 4

Pavement Edge
Lane Edge

Granular Levelling Course -

Match Depth of AP Bottom Lift
Full Depth AP
50 mm or 75 mm AP - Top Lift (See Note 3) Shouldering Aggregate
50 mm or 75 mm AP - Bottom Lift

25 mm CBC - Typical Depth is 150 mm

75 mm, 50 mm or 25 mm CBC - Typical Depth is 150 mm
0.6 SGSB - Variable Depth

Notes:
1. Pavement depth reduction may not be appropriate for shoulders that are less than
2.5 m wide; consider using full depth pavement for the entire shoulder.

2. Levelling material may be 19 mm Shouldering Aggregate or 25 mm CBC, subject

to the ability to properly compact the material.

3. Pavement depths of 150 mm may also be constructed in three 50 mm thick lifts.

4. Gravel shoulder width 'W' to be the greater of:

(a) 0.5 m, or
(b) 4 x (Full Depth AP)

April, 2019 Page 440-5

SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE BC MoTI
MoTI Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

Figure 440.F Shoulder Detail with Roadside Barrier or Drainage Curb

N.T.S.
Variable
Equal to Design Paved Shoulder Width without Barrier
C.R.B. SP941-01 drawing series
Lane Edge

C.M.B. SP941-02 drawing series

Variable AP Depth
Shouldering Aggregate
No
tS
tee
C.R.B. 0.6 W pe
rT
ha
n1
C.M.B. 0.65 See Note 3 .5:
1

TYPICAL FOR NEW ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION

Variable
Variable 0.9

Existing
Equal to Design Paved Shoulder Width without Barrier
Lane Edge

C.R.B. SP941-01 drawing series

EP
50 mm A.P.
Width Varies Shouldering Aggregate
Variable AP Depth Pavement Cut Line
No
t
Tha Stee
Original Gravel Shoulder 0.5 n 1 per Existing
.5:1
Breakpoint
Pavement Widening 0.6 0.3
Va
ria ble
Slo
pe

TYPICAL FOR WIDENING AN EXISTING ROADWAY

Variable Varies
Equal to Design Paved Shoulder Width without Drainage Curb
Lane Edge

Integral Asphalt Curb

SP504-01
Shouldering Aggregate
Variable AP Depth
Typic
ally 4
:1 or
flatte
0.3 Y r
See Note 4

TYPICAL FOR NEW ROADWAY CONSTRUCTION

Notes:
1. Barrier and/or curbing on truck lanes should match the existing shoulder width; however,
the width may be up to 1.0 m less than the normal shoulder width, but must be at least
1.5 m wide where cyclists are present or 1.3 m wide where there are no cyclists.
2. Curbing shall not be used behind roadside barrier.
3. Gravel shoulder width 'W' to be the greater of:
(a) 0.3 m, or
(b) 3 x (Depth of AP)
4. Gravel shoulder width 'Y' to be:
4 x (Depth of AP + 0.075 m)

Page 440-6 April, 2019

BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE
MoTI Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

Figure 440.G Typical Wall Sections

N.T.S.

centre of inner lane

BREAST WALL

Lateral clearance for Stopping

Sight Distances (SSD)

'C'
Ensure adequate Stopping Sight
'C' if CPB used 0.3
Distance on inside curves. See
1.8 min.* TAC Section 3.2.6
L.E.

Use this formula for solving 'C'

R
CPB SSD
C = R (1-cos (28.65 ))
R
R = Radius at centre of inner lane
NOTE:
The addition of Concrete Pier Barrier (CPB) should be considered
when designing a Breast Wall. If CPB is used, the 'C' distance
shall be measured to a point 0.3 m from the wall.
(refer to Standard Specification Dwg. SP941-02.01.05 to 941-02.01.07 for CPB details)
centre of inner lane

RETAINING WALL BARRIER SETBACK

ON WALL SECTION

Pedestrian or
'C' cyclist height D
L.E.

Pedestrian or fence,
cyclist height if warranted
1.5 min.* fence, if warranted
CRB or CMB
Configuration as per
R CRB (refer to Std Spec. Use CMB where:
Dwg. SP941-01.02.02) · H ≥ 2 m or H
· a road or railway is
located below
Barrier must be anchored per
SP941-04.02.01 where a road
or railway is located below.
NOTE: Consider anchoring barrier where D < 0.5 m.
Increase lateral clearance to accomplish SSD. Recommended setback from wall for
non-anchored barrier:
* Desirable width is the same as the paved D = 0.5 m for ≤ 80 km/h design speed
shoulder. This drawing is for lateral clearance D = 1.0 m for > 80 km/h design speed
only. Consult other sources for wall designs.

April, 2019 Page 440-7

SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE BC MoTI
MoTI Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

Figure 440.H Solid Rock Cut Sections

N.T.S.

CONCEPTUAL AND PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR

LOCAL, COLLECTOR, ARTERIAL,
EXPRESSWAY AND FREEWAY

0.9 3.0 Overburden

Shoulder width as min.
per the Project
Design Criteria. **
See Note 6 See Note 5
0.6
L.E.

0.9 "B"

4
LVR

Note
* Same
See Note 6 as detail

See
C.B.C. 0.6 1.5 at left
:1
SGSB 0.6
Subgrade 20:1 C.B.C. 2:1
0.3 min. S.G.S.B.
Shouldering -0.03 m/m (on tangent)
Aggregate 0.3 min.
Ditch Bottom Width: "B"
1.25 m - cut height less than 8 m;
1.25 m - cut height up to 10 m for less than 100 m along alignment;
2.75 m - cut height of 8 m or more except as stated above.
Cut height greater than 8 m requires a Geotechnical site specific design.
Ditch widths > 2.75 m may be recommended for very high rock cut sections.
* Use CLB on inside curve only. See Standard Specification SP941-01.01 drawing series.
** Use CRB on outside curve or tangent. See Standard Specification SP941-01.02 drawing series.

ALTERNATE
CONCEPTUAL AND PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR
LOCAL, COLLECTOR, ARTERIAL, 3.0 Overburden
min.
EXPRESSWAY AND FREEWAY

Shoulder width as See Minimum See Note 5

L.E.

per the Project Note 8 Catchment Width

Design Criteria. "C"
7

Slope Minimum Remediation

Note

Slope Height Catchment Stabilization

Height (m) Width "C" Requirement
See

C.B.C. 4:1 (m) (See Note 9)

SGSB
Subgrade 0-8 3 No
8 - 16 4 Above 10 m
0.3 min. > 16 5 Yes
Shouldering
Aggregate

Notes:
1. Rock cut height is measured from the outside ditch point to the top of the rock face, excluding overburden.
2. All cuts to be excavated to subgrade line.
3. A geotechnical investigation is to be carried out for all cuts greater than 8 m and for all cuts where geohazards
may exist (i.e. within or beyond construction cross section limits).
4. Use a vertical backslope unless a flatter slope is recommended in the geotechnical report.
5. Overburden slope is normally 1.5:1, but may vary depending upon the type of material.
6. Increase the ditch bottom width dimension to ensure lateral clearance for SSD in curves.
7. For the 'Alternate' detail, use 0.25:1 backslope unless a different slope is recommended in the geotechnical report.
8. Barrier, clear zone and drainage requirements will be reviewed during the detailed design phase.
9. Remediation/slope stabilization design involves potentially the application of mesh on slope heights > 10 m,
pattern bolt installation, shotcrete application and/or catch fence/barrier.

Page 440-8 April, 2019

BC MoTI SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE
MoT Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

Figure 440.I Disposal of Waste Excavation

N.T.S.

Unsuitable material for embankment

(May be simultaneously constructed
with embankment)

C
L Asphalt
2.0% 2.0%
C.B.C.
S.G.S.B.
Adequate drainage
2.0% 2.0% at the base must
be provided.
Mi
Embankment nim
um
Slo
pe1
Original Ground .5:
1

Notes:

1. Material considered unsuitable for embankment construction may be disposed within the
right-of-way as shown in the diagram.

2. The unsuitable material shall be deposited below the base of the select granular subbase
(SGSB) so that SGSB drainage is not compromised.

3. In the case of rock fill embankment, adequate drainage shall be provided through the
unsuitable material so that no pore pressure can build up within the rock embankment.

4. The unsuitable material placed on the embankment slope must be stable against
sloughing.

April, 2019 Page 440-9

SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE BC MoTI
MoTI Section 440 TAC Section Not Applicable

This page is
intentionally left blank

Page 440-10 April, 2019

 N.T.S.

April, 2019
BC MoTI
MoTI Section

R/W
R/W
450

Minimum 20.0 m R/W

* Sidewalk
100 mm Shouldering ℄ Allowance
Aggregate 0.7 1.8 0.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 0.6 1.8 0.3
Note 6 Note 2 & 5 Note 2 & 5 Note 6
Approved Topsoil -0.020 m/m
+2% -0.020 m/m -2% Topsoil
(See Note Below) 4:1
0.3 1.5 (3:1 m
4:1 1 :1 ax.)
: 0.3
1.5 SP582-01.01 (See Inset) 0.3
Slope or SP582-01.02 Slope
Figure 450.A Typical Urban Fill Section

Easement
Easement
1.8
FILL SECTION
1.0
SLOPE DETAILS min.
4 :1
When slope easements cannot be obtained, construct wall
or obtain R/W required to control slope as follows:
- 2:1 when cut/fill is 0.0 m to 3.5 m above/below top of curb * WITHOUT SIDEWALK
- 1.5:1 when cut/fill is over 3.5 m above/below top of curb ALLOWANCE

Topsoil all cuts and fills:

- 150 mm depth on slopes 3:1 or flatter Variable Lane
0.6 Sidewalk Allowance
- 100 mm depth on slopes steeper than 3:1 Width in cut
+2%
Asphalt pavement -2%
25 mm
LANE DETAILS 25 mm crushed fill
base course
TAC Section

1. Two way left turn lane: select granular sub-base

- used when design speed is 60 km/h or less (variable depth)
- minimum width 3.6 m
4.13

2. Increase outside curb lane to 3.8 m when design speed is 70 km/h Curb Edge

3. Increase inside lane to 4.0 m when adjacent to raised median Variable Lane
Width
4. Parking lane 2.5 m
Grade Control
5. Refer to TAC Geometric Design Guide for shared bikeway lane widths
INSET
6. Minimum sidewalk width is 1.8 m. Refer to TAC Geometric Design
Guide for situations that require greater sidewalk widths.
SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

Page 450-1
 N.T.S.
R/W R/W
Slope Easement Slope Easement
Minimum 20.0 m R/W

Page 450-2
Note 7 Note 6 Note 6
MoTI Section

0.7 1.8 0.6 7.2

℄ 7.2 0.6
Concrete Sidewalk
450

Concrete Curb & Gutter

4 4:1
(3:1 m:1
ax.) 0.3 Topsoil Special Slope
Topsoil Treatment
0.3 0.3
(refer to SP201-01)
Shouldering Aggregate Sub-Drain as required
(refer to SP303-06)
CUT SECTION
Figure 450.B Typical Urban Cut Section

200 mm
Min. 25 mm
40 mm Crushed Base Course

See Note 4

Existing Pavement Variable Lane

SUPPLEMENT TO TAC GEOMETRIC DESIGN GUIDE

0.6 Sidewalk Allowance

Asphalt Levelling Course Width in cut
+2%
Asphalt pavement -2%
25 mm
PAVEMENT OVERLAY 25 mm crushed fill
base course
(WHERE EXISTING STRENGTH PERMITS)
TAC Section

select granular sub-base

Notes: (variable depth)
1. Mill pavement where applicable.
4.13

2. Minimum residual pavement 35 mm thick. Curb Edge

3. Minimum overlay thickness 40 mm.
4. If asphalt levelling course exceeds 200 mm, consider milling existing pavement and
reconstructing with crushed base course. Variable Lane
5. If the intersection of pavements cause water entrapment, remove enough existing Width
pavement to provide drainage. Grade Control
6. Refer to TAC Geometric Design Guide for shared bikeway lane widths.
7. Minimum sidewalk width is 1.8 m. Refer to TAC Geometric Design Guide for INSET
situations that require greater sidewalk widths.

April, 2019
BC MoTI