This report documents a performance review and evaluation of the highway pavement program of the Finnish National Road Administration (Finnra). The study, which was requested and funded by Finnra, was undertaken to clarify the impacts of budget reductions in pavement maintenance on the national highway network, identity an appropriate level of annual investment in the pavement program, and assist Finnra management in dealing with policy, management, communication, and technical issues related to the pavement program. The key objective of this study were as follows: to review and evaluate Finnra's pavement program and policies; to review the adequate of current levels of pavement investment; to assess management procedures, analytic tools, and data and assumptions that Finnra uses to establish pavement policy, and to manage and budget its pavement program; to assess the effectiveness of Finnra's communication of information regarding its pavement program; and to evaluate selected technical components of pavement program management. For purposes of this report, the terms "pavement maintenance" and "pavement investment" will refer to those activities needed to preserve the pavement in good condition, prevent or correct damage to the pavement surface or structure, and provide a safe, smooth riding surface for motorists. Construction of new pavement to expand existing highway capacity or to provide new capacity has not been addressed in this review. (A)
Abstract