Development of method for road network management program optimization

Abstract

The object of research is the processes of road network management. The main hypothesis of the study is the application of optimization methods to the road asset management program, which allows to implement a road maintenance strategy, which includes a set of measures involved in ensuring and maintaining roads at the appropriate operational level. In general, the sequence of asset management begins with the definition of objectives, policy of road administrations and the available budget. According to this starting point, data collection, performance monitoring, analysis of options and optimization programs, selection and implementation of a set of projects are performed. The goals and objectives of road project management depending on the category are considered. The model of strategic planning of the program on management of a network of highways is offered and the modern architecture of model is constructed. The main approaches to the optimization of the road asset management program are identified. The target function for the optimization model is proposed, which is to minimize the cost of maintenance of the road network and defines the goals to be achieved in the optimization process. The optimization model is a mathematical description designed to compare alternative strategies and identify the relative benefits of each strategy according to the assigned decision criteria, such as safety, cost, environment and others. The main idea and goal of road network management projects is to improve maintenance practices and policies and thus improve the condition of the network, or maintain it at the current level, taking into account resource constraints. The results of program optimization have practical value and can be used to manage road repair and operation projects depending on:

– defined project goals and plans, including scheduling, budgeting, planning, established efficiency requirements and selection of project participants;

– maximizing the efficient use of resources;

– implementation of functions of coordination and control, planning, design, evaluation, conclusion of contracts and implementation of projects under contracts.