The functional classification of roadways defines the role each element of the roadway network plays in serving these travel needs. Ultimately, the coordinated and systematic maintenance of an accurate roadway functional classification system ensures that Federal Aid funds are allocated where they are most needed, to enable people and goods move fluidly through our modern transportation system. 

• Federally Functionally Classifying roadways is essential in planning for future roadways.
• Federal Functional Classification (FC) categorizes roadways into classes by their purpose, impact on traffic flow and destination access.
• Every class of roadway either collects or distributes traffic to the next higher or lower class of roadway.
• All roadway projects seeking to utilize federal funds must be Federally Functionally Classified at a minimum of a Minor Collector.
• In order to qualify for Functional Classification a project must have a Construction Phase on the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program as a Construction Phase.

Access VS Mobility:                                         Functional Class Hierarchy:

• Arterials – moving traffic (mobility) 
• Collectors – combination of access and mobility
• Local Streets – land access

 FHWA-TxDOT Federal Functional Classification Change Request Process & Training