Through this project, WTI will develop a guide that can serve as a comprehensive information source on effective practices for converting severely distressed paved roads to acceptable unpaved surfaces. The guide will be developed based on needs identified in NCHRP Synthesis 485 Converting Paved Roads to Unpaved (Fay et al., 2016). It will cover methods to determine if the road is a candidate for conversion, methods to determine the existing road materials and condition, methods to convert the road from paved to unpaved (design, construction, maintenance), methods to assess the lifecycle cost of construction and maintenance of the unpaved road, tools to effectively inform and communicate with the public, and the safety implications of converting a severely distressed paved road to an unpaved road.

The main benefit of this project will be the availability of an easy to use guidance document on converting severely distressed paved roads to acceptable unpaved surfaces. The guide will aid in more effective selection of candidate roads for conversion, more effective and safer conversions, and more effective communication with the public on how and why a conversion is taking place.