A framework for assessment of the decision-making process of winter road maintenance operations

Road networks are the most prevalent and reliable element of the transportation systems. Roads provide freedom of movement, are continually available, and form the backbone of the economy. Road maintenance, including snow and ice control, is an essential part of ensuring a safe and efficient road network. Winter road maintenance operation is a series of activities performed at various times to keep roads safe and passable during severe winter conditions. Winter road maintenance components must be coordinated to allow operation's managers to make the right decisions at the right time. Decisions made for winter road maintenance operations are dependent on factors such as weather conditions, road temperature, de-icing material, and equipment. Many decisions are made for the timely mobilization of resources for winter maintenance activities such as salting or snow removal. Given the uncertainty associated with the variability of winter, it is inevitable that maintenance decisions will be made with a proportion of inaccuracy. However, untimely or ill-informed decisions result in unnecessary over usage of resources, or deficient maintenance efforts. This thesis is focused on reducing the margin of decision error by establishing a framework or a methodology for measuring and assessing decision effectiveness.