expressways

Expressways are high-capacity roads designed for efficient long-distance travel with restricted access. They typically consist of divided lanes, multiple lanes per direction, and grade-separated interchanges that limit entering and exiting the roadway to controlled ramps. The goal is to minimize interruptions from cross traffic and local driveways, reducing conflict points and enabling higher speeds than arterial streets. In many systems, expressways function as part of a national or regional road network and connect major cities and regional centers.

The term expressway is used differently around the world. In the United States, an expressway is usually a divided highway with partial access control and some at-grade intersections or traffic signals; a freeway is fully access-controlled with no at-grade crossings. In parts of Europe and Asia, expressways may denote high-speed roads with limited access but that still include some junctions at-grade or with ongoing urban interchanges; other countries reserve the term for what is globally known as a motorway or freeway.

Design features commonly associated with expressways include interchanges replacing at-grade intersections, on-ramps and off-ramps, median barriers or separation, shoulder or breakdown lanes, and intelligent transportation systems for speed and incident management. Most expressways have controlled entry and exit, often with service roads in urban areas, and may be toll or non-toll facilities.

Governance and financing vary by country and project: national or state/provincial authorities typically own and operate expressways; funding may come from taxes, tolls, or public-private partnerships. Expressways aim to improve mobility, reduce travel times, and support economic activity, while balancing safety, environmental, and community considerations.