The allocation of economic resources to maintain and upkeep the road connection systems requires an adequate appraisal of the benefits that generate the proposed investments. Hence, the need for tools that can accurately assess reductions in transportation costs and additional social benefits that generate future projects. One of the most widely-used tools for assessing the technical and economic viability of upkeep and improvement projects, especially in emergent nations, is the HDM-III model (Highway Design and Maintenance), developed by the World Bank. This model is characterized by its empirical basis (especially in its deterioration and maintenance sub-model), developed on topographic surveys that were carried out mainly in Brazil. This empirical base entails a revision of the models performance conditions in different environments (climatic, structural, economic, technological) from those originally proposed. As soon as the model is calibrated to the local conditions where it is being applied, results can reach an adequate degree of reliability. The present reseach carries out a concrete application of the HDM-III model as a tool within a road management system. The application is carried out along a segment of the road network characterized by medium - to low-traffic volumes. The segment under study responds to typical conditions of central Argentina (mild weather and flat-to-undulating topography). Different results are established under different calibration states, as well as its incidence on defining a more adequate public works program for the proposed systems. The studies presented enable an efficient use of resources with two aims in mind: reducing overall transportation costs,and the possibility of financing the work project, either through the state or through private concessions. (A)
Abstract