but are there other things aswell?
DAVENPORT:
One of the keys to our
success in recent years is the use of thin-
concrete overlays to repair distressed
pavements. We've had this technology for
many years, and we see it being used for all
types of pavements, including concrete,
composite, and asphalt. In recent years, the
use of concrete overlays on asphalt
pavements has become more prevalent. We
attribute some of this to the volatility in oil
prices, and because asphalt is a derivative of
oil processing, and just as we've seen oil
prices increase, so too, have we seen the
prices of asphaltic oil rise. We also see
greater efficiencies in hydrocarbon
processing , which means a higher
percentage of high-value products, or said
anotherway, less asphaltic oil available.
We are continuing to look for solutions that
will help the state agencies and contractors
place thinner sections of concrete overlays.
The goal is providing the greatest possible
value and return on investment of
infrastructure investment dollars.
Sustainability is another focal point for
ACPA . Conc r e t e o f f e r s sup e r i or
sustainability benefits, and so, we continue
to support research, while also educating
themarketplace about these benefits.
BUSINESS WORLD:
You mentioned
specifically the long-term highway funding
and getting things straightened out in
Washington. In your own expert opinion
and heart of hearts, do you think something
is going to get done? Are you optimistic? Is
it an administration thing? If Congress and
theWhiteHouse are on the same side of the
aisle, will things get done a little easier?
166 | BusinessWorld | July-August 2014
Legacy
ACPA's “Legacy” publication covers
the association's first 50 years,
but also chronicles transportation
construction in the United States
going back to 1784.(Artwork: Chris Smith.)
