Collector/distributor

Learn about collector/distributors and how they improve traffic flow on freeways.

What is a collector/distributor?

A collector/distributor separates freeway through traffic from other vehicles that are exiting or entering the freeway. Collector/distributors – also called C/D lanes or a C/D – are typically located in urban areas that see heavy traffic. When people enter a C/D from the mainline freeway or a side road, the roadway “collects” vehicles from on-ramps and “distributes” others to off-ramps before rejoining the mainline. Highways around the state have C/Ds, usually located at interchanges of major freeways like I-5 and I-90 in Seattle or northbound I-5 and SR 16 in Tacoma. They also are used in places with numerous on- and off-ramps in close proximity, like southbound I-5 in Centralia between Harrison and Mellen streets.

Collisions are most common where traffic merges. By reducing merge points on a freeway's main lanes, collector-distributor lanes benefit all drivers by:

  • Eliminating weaving to exit or enter a freeway’s main lanes.
  • Reducing the number of exit and entrance points on a freeway's main lanes while meeting the demand for access to and from the freeway.

Using a collector/distributor

When using a collector/distributor, be prepared for merging traffic at numerous locations. As soon as it is safe, use your turn signal and move into the lane you need to be in to exit or enter the freeway. When exiting, watch carefully for your ramp; sometimes they are quite close. C/Ds may have ramp meter signals that will require a stop.

A graphic that shows a collector-distributor.
The northbound I-5 collector/distributor in Seattle shows how numerous on- and off-ramps are ​​​​served,
keeping numerous merge points off the main lanes of the freeway.

 

Enjoy paid time off. 

Our employees earn paid vacation and sick leave every month, as well as 12 paid holidays per year.

Work in a modern environment.

We offer telework options, an infant at work program, flexible work schedules and more.

Continue your learning journey.

Get tuition reimbursement for coursework or trainings related to your job or career ladder.