PI spotlight: Carmine Dwyer

Carmine Dwyer of Applied Research Associates, Inc. recently completed project R27-077, “Evaluating Pavement Markings on Portland Cement Concrete and Various Asphalt Surfaces.” The project was directed by a Technical Review Panel chaired by Kelly Morse, Analytical Lab Supervisor for IDOT’s Bureau of Materials and Physical Research.

Along with co-investigator William Vavrik, also of ARA, Dwyer reviewed pavement marking compatibility with PCC and hot-mix asphalts commonly used in Illinois. After four years of monitoring marking performance at sites across the state, the research team prepared the IDOT Pavement Marking Selection Guide. The guide will assist in determining which pavement markings are the most durable and cost effective for different pavement types and different regions of the state. The guide will also be used by local Illinois agencies and other state departments of transportation.

Dwyer states, “Knowing the expected service lives of the markings provides IDOT the ability to proactively plan maintenance striping efforts. Of equal importance are the annualized costs provided in the guide. Some marking types may have a lower initial cost, but the study shows that some of the more durable markings not only perform better but also provide the lowest cost over time.”

Dwyer has been with ARA since 2004. As a senior engineer with the firm, she leads pavement marking research for the Illinois Tollway. She also performs pavement condition assessments and pavement management services for a number of clients. Prior to joining ARA, Dwyer served in the United States Air Force for nearly six years and has had the opportunity to lead some unique Air Force projects for ARA—such as an aircraft parking and ramp lighting optimization plan. She holds a bachelor’s degree in civil and environmental engineering and a master’s degree in transportation engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.