Dedicated Pavement Type Networks Based On a Probabilistic Life-Cycle Cost Analysis

Abstract

In 2001, the Québec Ministry of Transportation (MTQ), in Canada, adopted a policy subdividing the existing pavement network into dedicated concrete and asphalt networks. This paper summarizes the methodology used for determining these respective networks using probabilistic Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) and provides an assessment of the situation four years after implementation. Sixteen (16) different combinations of Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT), number of lanes, truck percentage, and truck factor yielded 32 pavement designs in asphalt and concrete that were compared in pairs over an analysis period of 50 years using a probabilistic LCCA software. Regression equations were used to generalize the results of these standard cases. The network allocation criteria were determined by applying dominance tests to these probabilistic results; in the areas without clear dominance further analyses would be necessary using project-specific data. After minor adjustments to ensure continuity, the respective networks (“white” for concrete, “black” for asphalt and “gray” for further analysis) were established officially. Since 2001, the clarity and convenience of this policy were seemingly appreciated both by the industry and MTQ officials