Lifetime Cost Analysis of Concrete Barriers and Steel Guardrails

This article presents a comprehensive lifetime cost analysis of concrete barriers and steel guardrails, focusing on various cost factors associated with their use. The study introduces a cost analysis methodology that accounts for construction costs, maintenance expenses, exposure risks during maintenance, and costs incurred by the traveling public due to traffic delays and crash outcomes. A software tool named CalBarrier was developed to facilitate the calculations and comparisons of lifetime costs for the two types of barriers. The research utilizes recent data from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to ensure accuracy and relevance. It discusses the decision-making process involved in selecting roadside barriers, emphasizing the shift towards cost-effectiveness in barrier selection. The findings highlight the importance of considering multiple parameters, including economic factors and road conditions, in conducting a thorough lifetime cost analysis. The methodology and software developed in this study are applicable to various regions, making the results relevant beyond California.