Identification of Construction Inhibitors and Sustainable Construction Practices for Alternative Intersections and Interchanges

Abstract

Despite the recent pandemic and sharp increases in fuel costs, portions of the current U.S. transportation infrastructure have reached their capacity, can no longer carry the increasing traffic volumes they are subjected to, nor can they sustain more. Thus, there is a need to enhance the current infrastructure by funding projects that promote more sustainable practices. Alternative intersections and interchanges (AIIs) can help to achieve this by providing significant improvements in traffic volumes while maintaining or improving safety. However, because they involve unique construction approaches that may be unfamiliar to construction professionals, the cost of AII projects are often perceived to be higher than for conventional designs. This research addressed this problem by identifying inhibitors to the construction of AIIs and enhancers that could improve their construction efficiency. To do so, an online survey was distributed and virtual interviews were conducted to gather knowledge from stakeholders (consultants, designers, and contractors) with experience building AII projects. The results were compiled and assessed to better understand the inhibitors that prevent AII projects from being selected and constructed. The results are promising and help DOTs, contractors, and consultants to focus their resources on minimizing inhibitors to improve project performance. The results show that utilities and right of way are the most prevalent inhibitors that prevent AII projects from being selected and constructed.