Using The Traffic Monitoring Guide To Develop A Truck Weight Sampling Procedure For Use In Virginia

The Traffic Monitoring Guide (TMG) provides a method for the development of a statistically based procedure to monitor traffic characteristics such as traffic loadings. Truck weight data in particular are a major element of the pavement management process because there is a strong relationship between pavement deterioration and truck weights. Because truck weight data collected by weigh-in-motion (WIM) systems are more representative of actual traffic loadings and are more efficient than enforcement and static weight data, the use of the TMG and WIM systems together provide improved monitoring of truck weights. The objective of this research was to develop a plan for VDOT to implement a truck weight sampling procedure using the TMG and WIM systems. Four alternatives from the TMG that were based on different schemes for multiple measurements at permanent WIM sites were evaluated. A truck weight sampling plan was developed for the preferred alternative. Truck weight sample sites, data collection procedures, cost and resources estimates, data from permanent WIM sites, and data management information are included in the plan.