USDOT - Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Pavement Type Selection

[david-smith]

Life Cycle Cost Analysis for Pavement Type Selection

Author: South Carolina Department of Transportation/FHWA | Size: 0.7 MB | Format: PDF | Quality: Original preprint | Publisher: South Carolina Department of Transportation/FHWA | Year: 2008 | pages: 141

This report summarizes the findings from a research investigation conducted to evaluate LCCA practices
among state highway agencies for pavement type selection process, and proposes a probabilistic LCCA
approach for use in South Carolina. This investigation was based on analysis of data obtained from a
preliminary and a final survey of states across the U.S. and provinces across Canada. The surveys were
designed to gauge the level of LCCA activity in different states as well as to solicit information on specific
approaches that each state is taking for pavement type selection. The responses obtained from the surveys
were analyzed to observe the trends and ranges of various input parameters that feed into the LCCA process.
Based on the data from surveys, selected states whose LCCA practices exemplified a progressive and a
comprehensive approach were identified and further questioned on specific aspects of their respective LCCA
approaches. Based on this analysis, a probabilistic-based LCCA approach is proposed for use with pavementtype
selection process in South Carolina. Also, specific recommendations on range of values for different
input parameters based on the survey data are made. Where no adequate database exists for certain LCCA
input parameters, suggestions are offered for developing a database of values for future use .
In addition to developing a protocol for a probabilistic LCCA approach, different LCCA software
such as REALCOST, DARWin and other customized software used by specific states were explored.
Amongst these, REALCOST software developed by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) was found to
be widely used by several state agencies and most comprehensive in its treatment of different input
parameters. Further, FHWA has been instrumental in providing support to customize the REALCOST
software to meet individual state’s needs. Based on these findings, REALCOST software was proposed as
preferred software for use with conducting LCCA for pavement-type selection.

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