<p>COLUMBIA — The City of Columbia is moving forward with a comprehensive Pavement Management and Preservation Program, partnering with engineering firm Alfred Benesch and Company and its subconsultant Citylogix to assess every mile of city-maintained roadway. The initiative covers all 235 centerline miles of Columbia's road network and uses advanced imaging, LiDAR technology, and high-definition data collection to document existing conditions with precision, according to a city announcement.</p><p>The goal is straightforward: stop reacting to potholes and start getting ahead of them. The program will produce a prioritized maintenance strategy, standardized project specifications, community education materials, and a long-range budget plan. Mayor Chaz Molder said the investment is about making smarter decisions with public money. City Manager Tony Massey noted that reliable data allows the city to extend pavement life and reduce long-term costs — exactly the kind of fiscal discipline taxpayers deserve from their local government. Data collection began in April, with full program development expected to follow.</p>