Streets and highways are most effectively classified by their function according to the character of service they are intended to provide. The primary function of streets and highways is to provide mobility and access, and the degree to which these functions are provided is considered an integral part of classifying streets. The functional classification system creates a hierarchy of classified streets.

The City functional classification system directly addresses all streets that are under the jurisdiction of the City. State highways under the jurisdiction of the Washington State Department of Transportation are all legally designated arterials (RCW 46.61.195).

For purposes of comprehensive planning and this code, and pursuant to RCW 35.78.010, the City of Lakewood has classified and designated its City streets in three general categories, principal arterials, minor arterials, and local access roads. These classifications have the same meanings, respectively, as the terms major arterial, secondary arterial and access streets as those terms are used in RCW 35.78.010. The City of Lakewood has further designated a fourth category, collector arterial, as shown in this code and as used in the City’s comprehensive plan. Lakewood’s street designations are consistent with the federal functional classification system for city streets. [Ord. 501 § 3, 2009.]