This is a continuation of a research contract activity that was started on October 1, 2008. The research contractor  the following objectives: (1) To incorporate Mechanistic-Empirical Design Guide (MEPDG) models in jointed plain concrete pavement performance-related specifications (PRS), as has been done for hot-mix asphalt in the National Cooperative Highway Research Program 9-22. (2) To provide assistance to three States that want to develop or improve on their PRS. (3) To develop a plan for Statewide implementation of PRS, thereby saving time and eliminating much of the burden associated with current project-by-project jointed plain concrete pavements PRS development. The three objectives were identified in 2004 as high-priority research needs by the Concrete Technical Working Group that provided guidance for the Federal Highway Administration Office of Asset Management's Performance Specifications Strategic Roadmap. They were also specifically identified as critical needs by participants in the November 2006 Advanced Quality Systems Workshop in Alexandria, Virginia. Also, the American Concrete Pavement Association passed a resolution to encourage the further development and implementation of PRS, and the association's staff has provided significant input in past PRS software development and jointed plain concrete pavements PRS field trials. All field trials were successful. The States conducting field trials (using PRS not based on the MEPDG models) were Indiana, Florida, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. Those States plus others (e.g., California, Kansas) have now indicated a need for MEPDG-based PRS and for assistance with PRS implementation. This research contract activity will provide such PRS development and implementation assistance to three States and will result in MEPDG-based PaveSpec 4.0 PRS software that replaces the current PaveSpec 3.0. As noted above, this activity addresses a fiscal year 2010 gap: "Performance-based Specifications Have Limitations Due to Existing Testing and Evaluation Protocols." It also addresses fiscal year 2010 gap: "Lack of Guidance and Best Practices for QA." This activity will improve and implement current jointed plain concrete pavements PRS, moving them closer to performance-based specifications. It will also be the basis for quality assurance guidance.

Goals:

The following are the key project objectives:

• Incorporating MEPDG models in jointed plain concrete pavement (JPCP) PRS.
• Providing assistance to State highway agencies in developing and using Level 1 and Level 2 PRS.
• Developing a plan for Statewide implementation of PRS.

• Infrastructure

• FY 2002-2022 / Infrastructure / Pavements and Materials