Rigid and composite pavement index-based performance models for network pavement management system in the state of Louisiana

Abstract

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD) in conjunction with the Federal Highway Administration initiated a study to evaluate the existing Pavement Management System (PMS) of LADOTD. The study evaluated and updated the performance models for different pavement types and highway classifications as used by LADOTD. This paper discusses the development of index-based rigid and composite pavement models. Distress data collected over the last 10 years at 2-year intervals were sorted based on control sections, distress type, pavement type and four new LADOTD highway classifications: Interstate, National, State and Regional Highway System. The data were sorted and analysed based on the historical records of the construction/reconstruction and resurfacing year. Regression analyses were conducted and a methodology was adopted to develop generalised models, based on the fundamental concept of pavement rate of deterioration as a function of age. The newly developed models provide good prediction capabilities that will assist in assessing the deterioration of pavements. It is believed that improving the performance models will enhance the efficiency of the PMS of LADOTD.

Keywords:

• PMS
• performance models
• network level
• flexible pavements

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to express their sincere thanks to LTRC and FHWA for their financial support. A special thank you is extended to LTRC and researchers, the PMS group and all the LADOTD district engineers and managers for their assistance. Last but not least, the authors like to show their gratitude to Chris Fillastre and Said Ismail for their valuable inputs during the review process and data analysis.