COLUMBIA — If you've hit one too many rough patches on Columbia's streets, city leaders say help is on the way — and this time they're doing it right. The City of Columbia is advancing a comprehensive Pavement Management and Preservation Program, using LiDAR imaging, 360-degree high-definition data collection, and advanced analytics to assess all 235 centerline miles of city roadway, according to a city announcement posted in April.
Columbia has partnered with Alfred Benesch and Company and subconsultant Citylogix to collect the data, analyze pavement performance, and develop a prioritized, long-term maintenance plan. Mayor Chaz Molder said the effort is about making informed decisions that benefit the city for years to come. City Manager Tony Massey noted the goal is to extend the life of roads and reduce long-term costs for taxpayers.
The program also includes standardized project specifications, community education materials, and multiple budget scenarios — the kind of transparent planning that taxpayers in Maury County deserve to see from their local government. Data collection was scheduled to begin in April, with a full Pavement Management Plan to follow.