Estimation of dynamic performance models for transportation infrastructure using panel data

Chih Yuan Chu, Pablo L. Durango-Cohen*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

41 Scopus citations

Abstract

We present state-space specifications of time series models as a framework to formulate dynamic performance models for transportation facilities, and to estimate them using panel data sets. The framework provides a flexible and rigorous approach to simultaneously capture the effect of serial dependence and of exogenous factors, while controlling for individual heterogeneity when pooling data across the facilities that comprise the panel. Because the information contained in time series and cross-section data are combined in the estimation, the ensuing performance models capture effects that are not identifiable in either pure time series or pure cross-section data. Also, pooling data across facilities leads to improved estimation results. To illustrate the methodology, we consider three classes of models for a panel of asphalt pavements from the AASHO Road Test. The models differ in the assumptions regarding the structure of the underlying mechanisms generating the data sequences. The results indicate that serial dependence is indeed significant, thereby reinforcing the importance of dynamic modeling. We also compare the specifications to assess the poolability of pavement condition data. The results provide evidence that heterogeneity among the facilities is present in the panel. Finally, we highlight features that elude existing performance models developed with static modeling approaches: the ability to estimate maintenance activities as exogenous variables, and the capability of updating forecasts in response to inspections.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)57-81
Number of pages25
JournalTransportation Research Part B: Methodological
Volume42
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2008

Funding

This work was partially supported by the Northwestern University Transportation Center through a Dissertation Year Fellowship award to the first author, and by the National Science Foundation through Grant 0547471 awarded to the second author. The work was done while the first author was a graduate student at Northwestern University.

Keywords

  • Dynamic models
  • Heterogeneity
  • Infrastructure performance modeling
  • Intervention analysis
  • Maintenance and rehabilitation
  • State-space models

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Transportation

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