Road network glossary

Below is a description of different road types and related terms.

Shoulder

The section to the side of a public roadway on which vehicular traffic is generally not permitted. The shoulder may be fully or partially paved or unpaved.

Roadway

The section of a public road used for vehicular traffic.

Limited access road

A public roadway that may only be entered or exited at designated locations. For example, highways are limited access roads.

Public roadway

An area of land or infrastructure (e.g., a bridge or viaduct) containing one or more roads open to vehicular traffic. A public roadway may also include one or more bicycle lanes.

Road corridor

Traffic corridor that includes the road right-of-way and the road that forms part of it, advertising signs and private driveways. The road corridor also includes nearby lots whose presence or use could have a direct or indirect effect on traffic and road user safety.

Road right-of-way

Land occupied by a road and its associated features, forming part of the public domain. The right-of-way includes, among other things, traffic lanes and shoulders, drainage ditches, and additional strips of land of varying width that allow the road authority to carry out maintenance operations.

Shared street

A public roadway on which pedestrian traffic is prioritized. Visit the Shared street webpage to learn more about this type of road.

Bicycle route

A shared-use road for bicycles and automobiles with priority given to cyclists. Visit the Bicycle route webpage to learn more about this type of road.

Lane

The section of the road dedicated to traffic in one direction and often identified by road markings. 

Bikeway

A lane designed for bicycle traffic. In some cases, other modes of transportation may also be permitted. Visit the Bikeway webpage to learn more about these types of lanes.