Cloverleaf and Diamond Interchanges

​CLOVERLEAF AND DIAMOND INTERCHANGES

Cloverleaf and diamond interchanges are common types of interchanges, making them hig​hly recognizable to road users. Both are grade-separated junctions that connect freeways with other roads, with minimal impacts to vehicle speed and movement.​

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A cloverleaf interchange is a four-leg interchange that uses loop ramps to accommodate left-turning movements. Interchanges with all four loops are referred to as “full cloverleafs" and all others are referred to as “partial cloverleafs".

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A diamond interchange has two intersections, two diagonal entry ramps and two diagonal exit ramps. This interchange will oftentimes have traffic signals to control vehicle flow and safety.  

Variations of the diamond interchange include:

• Tight Urban Diamond Interchange
• Single Point Urban Interchange
• Double Crossover Diamond Interchange​ 

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• ​Cloverleaf and diamond interchanges should be used when connecting two roadways that have low left-turn volumes.​
• ​Cloverleaf designs are typically used in rural environments with low traffic volumes and minimal weaving.

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• Cloverleaf and diamond interchanges should not be used on roadways with high traffic volumes.
• Cloverleaf interchanges should not be used in areas with frequent large vehicle traffic. Some larger vehicles have trouble navigating smaller cloverleaf turns.

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Benefits

• Efficiency – interchanges keep traffic moving and allow for traffic to flow between major roadways and crossroads.
• Familiarity - cloverleaf and diamond interchanges are the most common type of interchanges, which makes them highly recognizable and increases motorists' level of comfort while driving.  ​
  

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