Abstract

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) periodically surveys drivers to understand their perceptions of the agency’s maintenance activities. In 2020, Quadratics in conjunction with the Kentucky Transportation Center surveyed 2,400 licensed drivers throughout the state to gauge their perceptions of highway maintenance, identify areas of strength and weakness, and discern how drivers obtain information on traffic and weather conditions. Survey participants answered questions about five areas of highway maintenance — roadside features, pavement surfaces, shoulders, drainage, and signs/markings. Drivers reported being most satisfied with the maintenance of signs, guardrail, and striping. Pavement surfaces, potholes, and overall appearance garnered the lowest ratings. When queried about investment priorities, respondents said the most important areas for KYTC to focus on are pavement surfaces, signs, and markings. A comparison of the 2010, 2016, and 2020 customer maintenance surveys found that responses and reported levels of satisfaction have remained largely consistent. Questions about traffic and weather information revealed that drivers are increasingly reliant on smartphone apps while traditional media (e.g., television, radio) have diminished in importance.

Report Date

1-2021

Report Number

KTC-21-02/SPR20-592-2F

Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2021.02

Notes

© 2021 University of Kentucky, Kentucky Transportation Center

Information may not be used, reproduced, or republished without KTC’s written consent.

The contents of this report reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the University of Kentucky, the Kentucky Transportation Center, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, the United States Department of Transportation, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The inclusion of manufacturer names or trade names is for identification purposes and should not be considered an endorsement.

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