Listed in Asset Management
When you think of asset management for a highway department, you might picture complicated spreadsheets, satellite maps, or tech-heavy systems. But at its core, asset management is really just about knowing what you have, understanding what condition it’s in, and planning what to do about it. That’s it. Strip away the bells and whistles, and it’s a simple, but vital, approach to keeping a town’s roads, culverts, signs, and other infrastructure in good working order.
So, what are the essentials?
Inventory Everything
First things first: if it’s part of the road network, write it down. That means every road segment, every stop sign, every drainage pipe, and every guardrail. You can’t manage what you don’t know you have. It doesn’t have to be fancy. A well-organized list or binder can be a great starting point for small departments. Just be consistent and detailed.
Know the Condition
Once you know what you’ve got, the next question is: what shape is it in? You don’t need a degree in civil engineering to take note of cracks in the pavement, sagging signs, or rusted-out culverts. A simple 1-to-5 rating scale or notes like "needs replacement soon" can go a long way. The goal is to stay on top of issues before they become emergencies.
Set Priorities
Some things can wait. Others can’t. Prioritizing repairs and maintenance helps you stretch your budget and labor without sacrificing safety. For example, a pothole on a busy road is going to take precedence over a faded sign on a dead-end street. By understanding both usage and condition, you can make smarter decisions.
Track What You Do
Every time you fix something, replace something, or inspect something, write it down. Over time, this gives you a clear picture of what's been done, when, and how often. It helps spot patterns, like a section of road that keeps washing out every spring, and backs you up when someone asks, "Didn't we just fix that?"
Plan Ahead
Once you’ve got the basics down, asset management becomes less about reacting and more about planning. If you know your culverts last about 25 years and the one on Elm Street was installed in 2002, you’ve got a good idea of what’s coming. This kind of planning helps with budgets, staffing, and long-term projects.
Keep It Simple
There’s a temptation to overcomplicate things. But most highway departments don’t need cutting-edge tech to manage their assets well. A clear system, kept up regularly, can work wonders. The real magic is in staying organized and making decisions based on facts, not guesses.
Why It Matters
Highway departments are the unsung heroes of local infrastructure. Roads don’t just fall apart overnight; they decline slowly, often silently. Asset management gives you the tools to keep a step ahead. It helps justify your needs to the town board, keeps the public safer, and gives your crew a clearer picture of what needs doing.
Bottom line? Asset management isn’t about complexity. It’s about clarity. Know your stuff, keep tabs on it, and plan smart. Your roads (and your future self) will thank you.