Investigation of the Contract Time Determination Systems Used for Highway Projects in the U.S.A.

Abstract

In highway projects, major losses can occur when the estimated contract time is unrealistically longer or shorter than the actual time needed. This study presents a comprehensive review of the different contract time determination systems developed for various Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in the U.S.A. Also, the study addresses some of the main factors that can affect the activities’ production rates. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by updating the literature about the contract time determination systems used by different DOTs. A survey was designed and sent to the 52 DOTs in the U.S.A. to verify and collect additional information. The results provide further insights into the contract time determination methods used by DOTs and other factors that might affect the production rates in highway construction. This paper should prove useful for future studies focusing on the contract time determination for highway projects.