MPC Research Helps UDOT Focus Culvert Inspection and Maintenance Efforts
Posted: Aug 10, 2023
With more than 47,000 culverts under highways in Utah, researchers at the University of Utah developed a culvert management system and manual for the Utah Department of Transportation to help prioritize its inspection and maintenance efforts. The research developed methods of predicting culvert deterioration that should allow UDOT to focus on only those culverts most likely in need of repair or replacement. According to a case study that was a part of the research, UDOT should focus on only 10% of its inventory rather than spending time and effort attempting to inspect its entire inventory. As a result, costs should decrease, and the resilience and safety of the transportation system should increase.
With more than 47,000 culverts under highways in Utah, researchers at the University of Utah developed a culvert management system and manual for the Utah Department of Transportation to help prioritize its inspection and maintenance efforts. The research developed methods of predicting culvert deterioration that should allow UDOT to focus on only those culverts most likely in need of repair or replacement. According to a case study that was a part of the research, UDOT should focus on only 10% of its inventory rather than spending time and effort attempting to inspect its entire inventory. As a result, costs should decrease, and the resilience and safety of the transportation system should increase.