What is the primary characteristic of an interstate loop?

The primary characteristic of an interstate loop is that it bypasses cities or congested areas and meets the primary route at both ends. This design is essential for facilitating traffic flow, as it allows vehicles to circumvent densely populated regions or areas prone to congestion, thereby reducing travel time and enhancing safety. By connecting to the primary route at both ends, the loop effectively serves as a connector, enabling efficient movement without the need for vehicles to navigate through urban centers.

This characteristic emphasizes the goal of interstate systems, which is to provide smooth and uninterrupted travel across longer distances while minimizing the impact on local traffic.