Contractors’ Perspectives on Airfield and Highway Hot Mix Asphalt Pavement Projects

Abstract

Asphalt pavement covers most highways and airfields in the United States. While paving primarily occurs on highways, airfield projects carry greater risks for contractors and involve different management styles, construction execution methods, and project specifications. Failure to consider and quantify project differences may cause delays and financial repercussions. Therefore, this research answers the question, “From a paving contractor’s perspective, what are the differences between airfield and highway paving projects within the State of Washington?” Following a review of specifications and best practices guides, interviews with three Washington asphalt contractors yielded comparisons of project experiences with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the Department of Defense (DoD). Research results may benefit general audiences and, more specifically, United States Air Force (USAF) pavement engineers. Sharing contractors’ perspectives about asphalt paving enlightens government representatives about project partners’ issues and encourages communication and awareness.