Road Network Restoration after Major Disruptions

This project develops practical optimization methods for selecting, sequencing, and scheduling restoration actions for disrupted road networks based on incomplete and gradually improving information. Road networks may be severely damaged by events such as hurricanes and earthquakes, and prompt restoration is often necessary for the resumption of emergency services, other essential services, and normal activities. The proposed methods employ artificial intelligence heuristics such as genetic algorithms and particle swarm algorithms to optimize the schedules of restoration tasks. A hybrid optimization approach combines fast traffic assignment with microscopic simulation to refine solutions. The methods are designed to start with incomplete, uncertain information and adapt dynamically as additional data becomes available from weather forecasts, work crews, and the public. The project also develops methods for pre-planning purposes, including preparing effective restoration plans based on estimated probabilities of disruptions and their consequences. The research team will collaborate with the Maryland State Highway Administration and other agencies to ensure the practical applicability of the methods. Technology transfer activities include journal papers, conference presentations, software with a user manual, a final technical report, and workshops for interested transportation organizations.

• Record URL:
  • https://smartercenter.org/about-2/projects/road-network-restoration-after-major-disruptions/

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Active
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3552348303

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Safety and Mobility Advancements Regional Transportation and Economics Research Center

  Morgan State University
  Baltimore, MD  United States 
• Principal Investigators:

  Schonfeld, Paul

  Rakha, Hesham

• Start Date: 20260301
• Expected Completion Date: 20270901
• Actual Completion Date: 0
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers Program

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Disaster resilience; Genetic algorithms; Highways; Maintenance management; Microsimulation; Real time data processing; Rehabilitation; Traffic assignment; Work zones
• Subject Areas: Data and Information Technology; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation; Security and Emergencies;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01981973
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: Safety and Mobility Advancements Regional Transportation and Economics Research Center
• Contract Numbers: 69A3552348303
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: Mar 11 2026 1:21PM