County officials unveil advanced road assessment tools for infrastructure improvements

The Tooele County Council meeting on January 22, 2025, focused on advancements in the county's road maintenance and assessment strategies. Key discussions highlighted the implementation of a new technical mapping system aimed at improving the accuracy of road condition assessments and budgeting for repairs.

County officials recognized the contributions of staff members Adam Graft, Jerry Caldwell, and Bart Staples, who played pivotal roles in developing a new system that utilizes survey-grade equipment and artificial intelligence (AI) to collect data on road conditions. This new approach replaces an older method that relied on an imaginary centerline for road measurements, which had limitations in accuracy.

The new system, initiated in early 2023, involved surveying the edges of asphalt on all county roads, allowing for more precise data collection. This data is integrated into the county's Geographic Information System (GIS), enabling better tracking of road conditions and more informed budgeting decisions. The county plans to review and update its five-year road maintenance plan annually based on this data.

During the meeting, officials reported that approximately 75% of the county's 400 miles of roads are in marginal or better condition, while about 25% are classified as poor or very poor, necessitating more extensive repairs. The overall Pavement Condition Index (PCI) for the county stands at 59, which is on the borderline between fair and good. Officials expressed a goal to improve this score to around 80 through strategic investments in road maintenance.

The discussion also touched on the financial aspects of road maintenance, with officials noting that the county budgets approximately $700,000 annually for pavement treatments. They emphasized the importance of balancing the repair of poor roads with the preservation of better roads to extend their lifespan.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored Tooele County's commitment to enhancing its road maintenance practices through innovative technology and strategic planning, aiming to ensure safer and more reliable roadways for residents. The council plans to continue monitoring road conditions and adjusting budgets accordingly to maintain and improve the county's infrastructure.