OVERLAY DEFLECTION DESIGN METHOD FOR ARIZONA (WITH DISCUSSION)

The paper describes how the ability to accurately and objectively establish pavements rehabilitative requirements is essential in overlay deflection design. Because the number of major new construction projects is decreasing, it is evident that more money and resources will be expended on upgrading and restoring existing facilities. With a sharp increase in the cost of materials and the steady depletion of natural resources, it is imperative that decisions on allocation of these natural resources and money be made in a logical and objective manner. Arizona, like other states, is faced with preserving its highway network. In order to do this, a myriad of overlay design strategies are used. The objective of this paper was to analyze past overlay deflection data developed as part of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) pavement evaluation and research effort, and from this analysis, develop an overlay deflection design method for Arizona.