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Abstract

State Highway Agencies (SHAs) in the United States use smoothness specifications to insure that they are providing the public with quality roads. Monetary incentives / disincentive policies based on the initial roughness values are used by SHAs to encourage contractors to build smoother roads. To justify the extra costs associated with smoothness specifications, it is important to demonstrate that smoother roadways do stay smooth over time. This research study was conducted at the University of Wyoming to examine if the initial roughness of a pavement section has any effects on its long-term performance. A large number of test sections from the long-term pavement performance (LTPP) database is included in the study. The statistical tests performed indicate that asphalt and concrete pavements with low initial smoothness stay smooth over time.