Multi-criteria optimization methodologies for highway program development.

摘要

This study presents multi-criteria optimization methodologies for multi-year and annual program development involved in highway management. Developed and implemented are a set of methodologies for both project and network level decision analysis. Project level methodologies facilitate implementation of tasks such as pavement condition characterization, treatment planning, and life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA). Network level optimization methodologies provide a decision making capability to develop the multi-year and annual maintenance and rehabilitation programs.;The scope of research work includes four important tasks, namely: (1) statistical analysis of distress and roughness data to characterize and assess pavement condition; (2) development of methodologies for treatment planning, LCCA, and multi-year and annual pavement program planning; (3) demonstration and validation of developed methodologies through case studies, and (4) development of a methodological decision framework that integrates the system modules into operational activities of a pavement management system (PMS).;Important contributions of the study include: a rational and analytic method of condition characterization; a state increment method of planning treatment options; a comprehensive and computationally efficient method of LCCA; and optimization methodologies for the multi-year and annual program development. The study also investigated application of cost modeling concepts based on scale and scope of treatment for improved accuracy in economic analysis. The usefulness of the methodologies has been demonstrated through case study applications to New York State Thruway Authority's (NYSTA) pavement network. Important findings from this comprehensive research effort are presented and discussed. The study concludes that the presented comprehensive and coherent set of project and network level methodologies provide a set of versatile decision-making tools that can be institutionalized in NYSTA to support highway management activities.;Significant direct benefits to NYSTA from this research include: a customized pavement management system that enables highway managers to make consistent and cost effective decisions regarding the pavement network; capability to optimally allocate funds; and ability to devise effective policies that achieve feasible goals considering multiple criteria. The contributions from this research will foster development of a comprehensive integrated infrastructure management system. Potential exists for NYSTA to better manage its facilities by optimal allocation of resources across pavements, bridges, canals, and other infrastructure components.