The interstate system is categorized as which type of road system?

The interstate system is classified as an arterial road system because it is designed for high-capacity traffic flow over long distances. Arterial roads are the major streets that facilitate the movement of large volumes of traffic, connecting cities, regions, and major traffic hubs. They often feature fewer intersections, higher speed limits, and are engineered to accommodate larger vehicles, including trucks and commercial vehicles. The design and function of the interstate system prioritize efficient travel and transportation, which aligns with the characteristics of arterial roads.

The local road system, on the other hand, is primarily intended for short-distance travel, connecting users to their homes and local destinations. The collector road system serves to gather traffic from local roads and funnel it to arterial routes, but it does not serve the same long-distance, high-capacity role as the interstate. The secondary road system generally refers to roads that provide access to smaller towns and rural areas, which is also distinct from the high-volume, long-distance focus of the interstate system.