PROVIDING DURABLE, SAFE, AND QUIET HIGHWAYS

Abstract

Most pavement design and construction specifications do not adequately define the pavement functional surface characteristics that are important to highway users. The result is that sometimes completed highway projects do not meet user expectations. Currently, most specifications address only smoothness (ride quality), whereas other desirable surface characteristics such as durability, and surface texture [friction (safety) and noise (environment)] are not often specifically addressed. The purpose of this paper is to look primarily at the functional characteristics of paved highway surfaces. First, functional performance will be described. Secondly, the individual surface characteristics affecting functional performance will be discussed with emphasis on pavement texture which has a major effect on friction (safety) and noise (environment). Next, recent innovative techniques and equipment to measure and evaluate these characteristics will be explained. Safety efforts underway both internationally and in the U.S. will be addressed. Finally, examples of the best practices will be described. Consideration of these factors by the engineering profession will help ensure that the highway user expectations are met on completed projects by providing durable, safe and quiet highways.