Transportation System Vulnerability and Resilience to Extreme Weather Events and Other Natural Hazards Report for Pilot Project - KYTC District 1

Abstract

This research's objective is to assist the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) in its efforts to develop strategies to address natural hazard vulnerabilities and improve the resiliency of Kentucky's transportation infrastructure. Recent federal legislation calls for state transportation agencies to develop a risk-based asset management plan for National Highway System (NHS) assets that includes consideration of natural hazards. Similarly, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) calls for state transportation agencies to identify potential vulnerabilities associated with extreme weather events and climate change, and to incorporate these findings into transportation planning, design, and maintenance practices. This report consists of two parts: (1) An overview of vulnerability assessments and natural hazards for KYTC. This is intended to inform and guide transportation system vulnerability assessments for Kentucky. (2) Pilot vulnerability assessment for the NHS in KYTC District 1. The District 1 pilot adopts a framework for conducting the assessment for particular locations. Lessons learned from the District 1 pilot project will direct future assessments in the remaining KYTC districts.