The Context Sensitive Roadway Surfacing Selection Guide documents available options for roadway surfacings, and provides a decision-making process to allow consideration of functionality, performance, durability, safety, life-cycle costs, as well as aesthetics and environmental impacts.

Traditionally, roadway surfacing selection has been based on providing the highest level of functionality, strength, and safety at the lowest possible cost. However, an innovative selection process is now available that specifically considers environmental impacts, cultural sensitivity, and aesthetics while also facilitating and encouraging public input. Developed by the Federal Lands Highway Division, the Guide's selection process permits a balanced consideration of engineering and environmental factors and better ensures that the completed roadway enhances or is at least compatible with the surrounding landscape. The Guide also includes: 1) a catalog of more than 50 surfacing types that provides information on life expectancy, appearance, cost, construction process, and much other information; and 2) a photo album that contains photos of the surfacing types in an appropriate context as well as general descriptions, pros and cons, and other summary information.

External Links:

More Information: www.cflhd.gov/techDevelopment/completed_projects/pavement/context-roadway-surfacing/