Error processing SSI file
|
The Commissioner's Report
(archived)
NJDOT launches new
Pavement Management Program
The NJDOT is meeting Governor McGreevey’s mandate to make our tax dollars stretch further and to work more effectively with the launch of a new Pavement Management Program.
The NJDOT will award $120 million of new contracts by the end of next June to rebuild and repave state highways, including the new Pavement Management Program, in order to get the most out of our capital dollars.
Over a billion dollars could be spent every year for the next 10 years to address the state’s paving and resurfacing needs. But lacking that level of resources, the NJDOT must think creatively to make our existing budget do more.
The Pavement Management Program is one solution. Studies from other states have demonstrated that a dollar spent today on preventive treatments can save anywhere from $3 to $10 down the road in major reconstruction and extend pavement life by up to 10 years.
Through computer analysis, the Pavement Management Program will indicate what treatment is required and at what time. As a result, by applying the right treatment at the right time, we are getting a longer lasting highway costing less money.
This is an example of government at its best. Pavement may not be glamorous but this plan is progressive, innovative and efficient. The plan also is a prime example of Governor McGreevey’s "Fix-It-First" philosophy: repairing our existing highways, rather than subsidizing sprawl by building new roads.
For motorists, that means not only smoother rides, but avoiding future traffic jams created by major road reconstruction work. Eliminating potholes and rough surfaces reduces wear and tear on vehicles and the need for costly repairs. But most importantly, these improvements will result in safer roads.
Our pavement management program has been employed on I-295 near Route 1 in Mercer County with excellent early results. Significant portions of 20 state highways, such as Routes 1, 3, 9, 30, 47, 70, 130, 206 and I-78 will receive this treatment, along with shorter stretches of other highways. In addition to this work, we will continue with traditional reconstruction and resurfacing work on our interstates, such as I-80, I-78 and I-95, and on our older state highways, such as Routes 46 and 206.
|
|
