TRB REVIEW INTELLIGENT CONSTRUCTION SYSTEMS PROGRAM

The Transportation Research Board (TRB) Committee for Intelligent Construction Systems and Technologies recently sent its second program review letter to FHWA Administrator Victor Mendez. Dr. Audrey Copeland, NAPA Vice President for Engineering, Research, & Technology, represents the asphalt pavement industry on the committee. The committee was established at the request of FHWA to provide strategic advice and guidance to FHWA concerning the conduct of its Intelligent Construction Systems and Technologies (ICST) program. Intelligent construction systems and technologies have the ability to collect, store, analyze, and process information and to make and execute an action or decision that results in quality construction. This is in conjunction with components, processes, and software that assist in a more effective system of construction.

One intelligent construction technology of interest to the asphalt industry is Intelligent Compaction (IC). The committee approved FHWA's efforts on IC implementation, including workshops, training, technical briefs, specification development, and research. The committee supports creation of the IC Technical Support Service Center (TSSC). One obstacle to IC implementation by contractors and owners is cost. The committee suggested that FHWA quantify the benefits of IC implementation to various target audiences. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) is developing a specification on IC and FHWA and AASHTO may consider developing guidance to states on how to encourage (rather than mandate) capital investment in IC technologies by contractors.