Performance Measures and Prediction Models Applied to Management of Henan, China, Provincial Highways

This paper describes pavement performance measures and prediction models applied to management of the provincial highway networks in Henan, China. The primary objectives of the paper are twofold: to discuss the key performance indicators applied in evaluation of pavement structural and functional conditions during all seasons and to present the performance prediction models used to guide maintenance activities and operation strategies. Covered are a wide range of study areas, including pavement condition survey and data collection in the field, selection of the most appropriate prediction models for the provincial highway networks consisting of different pavement types and functional classified highways, performance trigger levels for maintenance and rehabilitation needs, and treatment activities. This study deals with pavement evaluation indicators and prediction models, focusing on impacts of the individual indicators on sensitivity analysis of pavement performance assessment. The main findings and conclusions resulting from the study include (a) impacts of changing individual performance indicators on pavement assessment and maintenance programming, (b) the needs to modify and improve the existing decision-making process in selection of the most effective treatments from the local experience, and (c) impacts of alternative performance indicators and changing performance trigger levels on pavement assessment and maintenance programming.