City Department implements mobile data collection for road condition assessment

The Honolulu City Council meeting on May 1, 2025, focused on advancements in infrastructure planning and transportation, particularly regarding road maintenance and data collection methods. Key discussions highlighted the use of specialized mobile data collection vehicles and innovative telematics technology to assess and manage the condition of city roads.

Deputy Director Mami Zuka presented on the mobile data collection vehicles, which are equipped with sensors and cameras to gather detailed information about asphalt pavement conditions. This data is crucial for pavement management, allowing the city to prioritize maintenance and ensure quality control. The vehicles collect various metrics, including surface roughness and crack detection, which contribute to the Pavement Condition Index (PCI). The PCI is a grading system that categorizes road conditions from "good" to "poor," guiding maintenance strategies such as crack sealing and milling.

Zuka explained that roads graded between 71 and 100 are considered good, while those between 56 and 70 are fair and may require a milling process to extend their lifespan. Roads rated below 55 are deemed poor and are targeted for rehabilitation through upcoming contracts.

In addition to the biannual data collection, the city is exploring cost-effective telematics technology. This involves installing devices in city fleet vehicles to monitor road conditions based on the vehicles' usage. This pilot program aims to enhance the city's ability to identify maintenance needs proactively and is expected to launch by the end of the calendar year.

Chief Tyler Sugihara provided further insights into the city's work system, which integrates the collected pavement data. He noted that the city allocates $1 million every other year for data collection and analysis, utilizing a program called PAVER, developed by the Army Corps of Engineers, to evaluate pavement conditions.

The discussions underscored the city's commitment to improving road maintenance through innovative technology and data-driven strategies, ensuring safer and more reliable transportation infrastructure for Honolulu residents.