This study evaluated winter salt application efficiency on Open Graded Friction Course (OGFC) and Dense Graded (DG) pavements along I-95 in Needham, Massachusetts, to provide evidence-based winter maintenance guidance for MassDOT. The methodology incorporated field site instrumentation, maintenance tracking, direct friction measurements, crash data analysis, and an internet-based survey. However, a full data analysis was hindered by gaps in crash records and photographs, alongside unseasonably mild winters during 2023–2024 and 2024–2025. Furthermore, the survey revealed that only 12.5% of respondents currently utilize OGFC in their states, citing concerns regarding snow and ice, durability, cost, and performance failures.

Based on the limited data collected, both OGFC and DG pavement surfaces responded similarly to winter maintenance treatments regarding pavement temperature and friction. Due to the incomplete crash data and limited direct friction measurements, safety implications could not be fully investigated, and no changes to winter maintenance application rates could be recommended. Overall, the study indicates that OGFC and DG pavement types perform comparably when subjected to the same winter maintenance practices.

Infrastructure Assets: Highway Assets, Pavement
Resource Types: Case Study/Practice Example, Guide/Manual
Capabilities: Tools & Technology
Management Processes: Monitoring & Adjustment, Performance Based Planning & Programming, Resource Allocation