How does the cost of texture-grinding compare with the cost of asphalt concrete overlay?
VTA evaluated two types of asphalt concrete overlay as possible alternatives for reducing noise on Route 85: an open-graded asphalt concrete overlay and a rubberized open-graded asphalt concrete overlay. VTA estimates that the initial costs for texture-grinding lies between the costs of the two asphalt overlay options. However, studies show that the noise benefit of an open-graded asphalt concrete pavement disappear after five to seven years, requiring replacing of the surface to maintain the same level of noise reduction. Over a period of thirty-five years, the life cycle cost of the asphalt overlay is almost twice that of concrete grinding.
