City engineers unveil new software for road condition analysis and maintenance prioritization

Perry City Council is making strides in road maintenance with the introduction of advanced software that promises to revolutionize how the city manages its streets. During the recent council meeting, Brandon Jones presented a detailed overview of the new system, which utilizes data-driven insights to prioritize road repairs and maintenance.

The software, known as StreetLogix, works in conjunction with data collected by StreetScan, a company that uses high-resolution cameras to assess road conditions. This technology generates a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) score for each road, ranging from 0 to 100, allowing city officials to make informed decisions about where to allocate resources. Currently, Perry's overall PCI score stands at 76, indicating that the city’s roads are in relatively good shape, but there is still a backlog of $6.4 million in necessary repairs.

Jones emphasized the importance of proactive maintenance, stating that regular upkeep can prevent roads from deteriorating to the point of needing costly reconstruction. He explained that the software not only identifies which roads need attention but also recommends the most effective treatments based on their condition. For example, a "cape seal" treatment, which combines chip sealing with a protective layer, is highlighted as a long-lasting solution that minimizes disruption to residents.

The council discussed the implications of this technology, noting that it reduces the subjective nature of road maintenance decisions. By relying on data rather than personal judgment, the city aims to maximize the impact of its budget and improve overall road quality.

As the city prepares for its 2025 maintenance plan, the council is optimistic that these advancements will lead to better road conditions and enhanced public satisfaction. The integration of this software marks a significant step forward in Perry's commitment to maintaining its infrastructure efficiently and effectively.