Assessment of Level of Service for Roads under Performance Based Road Maintenance in Kenya

Purpose: This paper seeks to assess Level of Service (LOS) of roads under performance-based road maintenance (PBRM) in Kenya. This was done through a comparison of actual ratings with performance targets defined by the agencies for each asset item within a sample unit. The comparison was used to determine if each asset item had been preserved at minimum acceptable Level of Service (LOS) with objective of establishing if there are any benefits accrued from adopting the PBRM method. Methodology: Seven roads were identified in the study area and were divided into 14 sample units, each sample unit containing different asset items to be assessed. Data from the field was collected and recorded using field measurement tools for linear measurements. Dynamic Response Intelligent equipment (DRIMS) was used for measurement of International Roughness Index (IRI). Raw data was converted into performance information using guidelines from Quality Assurance in Highway Maintenance Programs and measurement of conformance conducted using Schedule Performance Index. Findings: The performance obtained indicated that the goal objective for each road was not achieved with an overall performance deviating from the target performance by 25.05%. However, there was 10% compliance at the asset group level and 35% compliance at asset item level. Noncompliance at road section level, 10% compliance at asset group level and 35% compliance at asset item level signifies inadequacies in PBRM practice in Kenya. This informs need for improvement by road agencies and contractors for optimum benefits from PBRM. There is need for contractor capacity building and enhanced partnering environment between contractors and management engineering consultants to provide technical assistance for improved contractor compliance in PBRM practice. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Concept of Performance based road maintenance (PBRM) is meant to solve problems arising from traditional contracting methods. As demonstrated in this study, effective application of PBRM principles results in cost savings in managing and maintaining roads, expenditure certainty, reduced inhouse workforce, greater road user satisfaction and improved conditions of contracted road assets. The requirement for contractors to provide a product of predefined quality is a definite means of ensuring that the road asset is performing over extended time. It is recommended that PBRM is adopted widely in road asset management to achieve an effective and efficient road network.