What is the purpose of reversible lanes?

Reversible lanes are designed to move large volumes of traffic in one direction, typically during peak travel times. This traffic management strategy allows for the adjustment of lane direction based on real-time traffic patterns, ensuring that the flow of vehicles is optimized. For instance, during morning rush hours, lanes may be designated for inbound traffic towards a downtown area, while in the evening, those same lanes can be switched to accommodate outbound traffic. This flexibility helps alleviate congestion and improve travel efficiency in areas where vehicle demand varies significantly throughout the day.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of reversible lanes. Increasing the speed limit does not pertain to lane direction or traffic volume, while allowing parking during non-peak hours is a separate traffic management strategy unrelated to lane direction. Providing extra lanes for cyclists would also not be applicable in the context of reversible lanes, as these are primarily focused on vehicle traffic.