In today's newsletter, we delve into our favorite slogan and tagline: "PMGs - Data-Driven Decisions Today, Better Roadway Networks Tomorrow." Let's explore the meaning behind this powerful statement and how it relates to pavement management.
The Current State of American Roadways:
In America, we face the challenge of maintaining approximately 2 million miles of paved roadways. Most of these roadways fall under the jurisdiction of municipalities, counties, townships, and villages. Limited funds are allocated yearly to improve our road networks, resulting in a common practice known as "worst of first." This approach addresses road issues based on subjective assessments and available budget, often leaving many roads untreated.
The Power of Data-Driven Decisions:
Data-driven decision-making is crucial in pavement management because it removes subjectivity from the equation. By utilizing the right filters, metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs), we can make informed decisions that deliver maximum return on investment (ROI). It's time to shift away from relying solely on community feedback or political motivations and embrace a systematic approach that optimizes our pavement network.
Breaking Free from the "Worst of First" Approach:
Implementing a data-driven approach to pavement maintenance and repair allows us to escape the limitations of the "worst of first" methodology. While roads in poor condition might be suitable candidates for treatment, focusing solely on these areas fails to address the remaining 95% of the network, leading to further deterioration. To truly solve the problem and maximize ROI, we must view our pavement network as an investment and take a holistic approach.
Treating Your Pavement Network as an Investment Portfolio:
Imagine spending significant money each year on your roadway network, just as you would invest in a financial portfolio. Now, consider entrusting that investment to the whims of your neighbors or party attendees. Would you expect positive results? Probably not. Similarly, optimizing your pavement network requires diversification and informed decision-making based on reliable data.
Tools in the Pavement Management Toolbox:
The key to successful pavement management lies in leveraging data-driven decisions. Fortunately, a wide array of tools are available to help us optimize our pavement portfolio. From rejuvenators for high-PCI (Pavement Condition Index) roadways to crack seal programs for good- to fair-PCI ranges and preservation vehicles for lower good-PCI roads, various treatments exist for different pavement conditions. We can maximize our investment by applying the right treatment at the right time.
Empowering Policy Makers and Improving Roadway Networks:
Adopting a data-driven approach empowers us and demonstrates to policymakers that decisions are based on objective information from trusted sources. As we make data-driven choices and implement the appropriate treatments, our roadway network gradually improves in condition. The ultimate goal is to create better roadway networks for tomorrow through the decisions we make today.
By embracing data-driven decisions, we can revolutionize pavement management, maximize our investment, and pave the way for better roadway networks in the future. Stay tuned for more valuable content in our newsletter, coming to you next Wednesday!
Author: James Golden, Founder and CEO of Pavement Management Group