ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT The majority of pavement design for new and reconstruction works in Alberta is for flexible structures with asphalt concrete surfacing. The City of Red Deer requested alternative bid options for 2016 improvements and upgrades to a major transportation corridor providing access to the city from a major highway. The alternative options included asphalt concrete and Portland cement concrete. The analysis included considerations for the differences in the design life of flexible and rigid pavements, reduction in the volume of construction materials, durability and sustainability of the surfacing, maintenance needs over service life, and safety. Based on long-term durability and life cycle costs, the Portland cement rigid pavement option was selected for the upgrades. Additional environmental benefits included lower total energy, reduced carbon dioxide emissions, and use of recyclable materials and industrial by-products. The paper discusses the structural performance of pavements, durability and sustainability considerations, and the selection process.
