Abstract:
This paper presents the background of a study conducted in Kenya to evaluate alternative design and maintenance strategies for low-volume roads. The study included a linterature review, which emphasized the lack of published material on the trade-offs among initial construction costs and future maintenance and road user costs. These cost relationships are discussed as they apply to low-volume roads in developing countries. An analytical framework for determining economic design and maintenance standards for low-volume roads was developed that relates the major cost components of design and maintenance policy variables to variables such as topography, vegetation, rainfall, alignment, traffic volume and composition, surface type, driver behavior, and more. Although the Kenya study established new empirical data on the trade-offs among construction, maintenance, and vehicle operating costs based on design and maintenance strategies, these data at present are applicable only to countries with similar conditions and environments.
Supplemental Notes:
Proceedings of a work shop held June 16-19, 1975, in Boise, Idaho by the Transportation Research Board.
