A RISK-BASED METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE SEISMIC PERFORMANCE OF HIGHWAY SYSTEMS

The Seismic Risk Assessment (SRA) methodology described in this report incorporates data and models for seismology and geology, engineering (structural, geotechnical, and transportation), repair and reconstruction, system analysis, and economics, in order to estimate system-wide direct losses (i.e., costs for repair of damaged highway components) as well as indirect losses due to reduced traffic flows, increased travel times, and associated economic impacts of earthquake damage to the highway system. The report is presented in eight chapters and eight appendices. The eight chapters provide the basic framework and a demonstration application of the SRA methodology and its modules. Chapter 1 provides an introduction, Chapter 2 summarizes the main elements of the methodology, and Chapters 3 through 6 describe its system, hazards, component, and economic modules, respectively. A demonstration application of the SRA methodology to the Shelby County, Tennessee highway system is provided in Chapter 7. Chapter 8 provides concluding comments and recommended directions for further development of this methodology. The eight appendices provide additional technical detail on the material contained in the report.