A small road typically refers to a neighborhood street or a residential road. The width of a small road can vary depending on various factors such as the purpose of the road, the volume of traffic, the presence of on-street parking, and the need for emergency access.
In terms of emergency access, it is widely accepted that a minimum width of 20 feet is necessary for two-way traffic. This allows for vehicles to pass each other safely in case of emergencies or the need for fire trucks, ambulances, or other emergency vehicles to navigate through the road. This width provides enough space for vehicles to maneuver and pass by each other without causing any obstruction or safety hazards.
In addition to the width required for emergency access, on-street parking is also an important consideration for small roads. On-street parking is often necessary in residential areas where off-street parking may be limited. To accommodate parallel parking, a minimum width of 8 feet is typically required. This allows for a vehicle to park on the side of the road without obstructing the flow of traffic.
Taking into account the requirements for emergency access and on-street parking, a widely accepted minimum curb face to curb face neighborhood street width is 28 feet. This width provides enough space for emergency vehicles to pass through, vehicles to park on the side of the road, and for two-way traffic to flow smoothly.
It is important to note that the width of a small road can vary based on local regulations, urban planning guidelines, and specific needs of the community. Some small roads may be narrower or wider depending on factors such as the density of the neighborhood, the presence of sidewalks or bike lanes, and the overall design of the road.
In my personal experience, I have come across small roads that were narrower than the accepted minimum width. These roads often posed challenges for vehicles to pass each other, especially when there were parked cars on both sides of the road. It created a tight and potentially hazardous situation, particularly when larger vehicles like trucks or buses needed to navigate through such narrow roads.
The width of a small road can vary depending on various factors, but a widely accepted minimum is 28 feet to accommodate two-way traffic, on-street parking, and emergency access. However, it is important to consider local regulations and specific community needs when determining the width of a small road.