VAN SCAN: High-tech vehicle uses lasers to test health of city roads

The unique van, outfitted with 13 pavement-scanning lasers, will traverse city-owned roads to produce a computer model that illustrates the condition of the pavement. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - A high-tech van equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to measure the strength and condition of city roads using laser technology will begin traversing the city's road next month.

According to a release from the city, the van will help develop long-term maintenance plans and budgets.

The van is owned by the Tempe, AZ-based firm, IMS Infrastructure Management Services LLC, which will complete a detailed inventory and condition rating of all roadways maintained by the municipality.

This is a function of the city's desire to maintain an updated database of the condition of the roadway infrastructure, the release state..

The data is collected and analyzed by IMS engineers to develop a management program specifically designed to assist in developing long-term rehabilitation plans and budgets. The field surveys are completed using specialized surveying equipment.

"IMS will be running a van over city-owned roads to scan the pavement condition. We do this approximately every five years," said Peter Nourse, director of City Services. "A unique van, outfitted with 13 pavement-scanning lasers, will traverse our roads to produce a computer model that illustrates the condition of the pavement. This data helps us to make informed decisions on prioritizing pavement rehabilitation."

The project begins with the road survey to inventory and collect pavement performance data using a device known as a LCMS-2 Road Surface Tester or RST. This device measures pavement roughness, rutting, cracking and other surface distresses as it travels down the roadway. It will also be used to collect digital images and GPS information for integration with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The RST is a Ford van with multiple HD cameras and GPS receivers and a rear-mounted high technology laser crack measurement system (LCMS-2). Operated by three field technicians, the RST travels at posted speed limits and will survey each roadway at least once.

"We anticipate this work to be conducted on Nov. 5th, weather permitting," Nourse added. "We ask that if residents see this vehicle they do not attempt to flag it down and that motorists keep a safe distance."

Once all the data is collected, it will be combined, managed by the IMS team, and used to develop a series of reports that will allow the City of Rochester to cost-effectively budget the long-term maintenance of the roadways. The report will provide a multi-year rehabilitation program that will recommend maintenance programs based on need, priority based on cost-benefit, and cost of deferral.