Thesis calls for better data to target road repairs

Managing Finland’s road repair backlog requires better information on road conditions, repair timing and the wider effects of deteriorating roads, Yle reports, citing a new doctoral study by Anne Hämäläinen.

The road network accounts for more than 60 per cent of the repair backlog for state transport infrastructure, or 2.6 billion euros. The backlog refers to the combined estimated repair costs for state roads, railways and waterways in poor condition.

Hämäläinen’s research says decision-makers need up-to-date information about the structural condition of roads, including what lies beneath the pavement. It also recommends more attention to road drainage. The study used expert interviews and technical analyses.

According to Hämäläinen, Finland’s road structures are not currently assessed using the methods best suited to the task. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency also lacks comprehensive information on when different repairs would be most cost-effective.

Poor road conditions can increase transport costs and affect fuel consumption, travel speeds, the environment and traffic safety. Vehicles may have to slow down, accelerate and swerve to avoid potholes, with costs that can ultimately affect the price of goods such as milk.

Major roads are being repaired as they should be, Hämäläinen said, but limited funding and a lack of suitable information mean less-used roads may not be repaired when it would be most worthwhile. Her doctoral thesis will be publicly examined at Tampere University’s Faculty of Built Environment on November 13.