Highway infrastructure inspection helps ensure that construction meets plans, specifications, and material requirements while supporting the quality and longevity of transportation assets. Infrastructure owners are increasingly using emerging remote virtual inspection (RVI) technologies, including mobile devices, AI, machine learning, light detection and ranging, small uncrewed aerial systems, and remote imaging technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and closed-circuit television. RVI technologies have numerous applications, including quantity estimation, verification and acceptance processes, payment scheduling, progress tracking, and the generation of as-built records to support future maintenance efforts. However, effective adoption requires thoughtful implementation and an understanding of each technology’s capabilities and limitations.

NCHRP Research Report 1172: Virtual Inspection Systems for Highway Construction Projects: A Guide, produced by TRB’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program, explores the fundamental principles, organizational strategies, governance mechanisms, readiness assessments, and practical examples for effectively integrating digital technologies and systems into RVIs. The guide is organized into four parts covering management guidance, technical reference, practical case studies, and key takeaways to support the understanding and implementation of RVI technologies.