New Best Practices Manual Strengthens Quality for Airport Concrete Pavements

The new final report, Quality Control and Quality Acceptance of Concrete Airport Pavement, from the Airport Concrete Pavement Technology Program (ACPTP) provides a comprehensive roadmap for improving the quality of concrete airport pavements. Developed by a research team led by the University of North Carolina–Charlotte, the project produced a Best Practices Manual, model Contractor Quality Control Program (CQCP), and training resources focused on strengthening quality management systems for airfield construction. The guidance emphasizes a holistic approach—covering everything from materials and mixture development to construction, testing, inspection, and acceptance—to help promote a stronger culture of quality and more consistent pavement performance across airport projects.

Research Confirms Diamond Grinding as Effective Treatment for Airfield Pavements

Another new final report from the Airport Concrete Pavement Technology Program (ACPTP), Effects of Diamond Grinding on Airfield Concrete Pavements, highlights the long-term performance benefits of diamond grinding for airfield concrete pavements. Based on site visits, stakeholder interviews, and case studies from 13 airports across the United States and Canada, the study found that diamond-ground surfaces—even those more than 30 years old—generally maintain texture and do not create foreign object debris (FOD). The report provides detailed guidance on planning, design, and construction, emphasizing that grinding is most effective on durable, structurally sound pavements with appropriate distress levels. When applied correctly, diamond grinding offers a reliable strategy for restoring surface characteristics and extending pavement service life.

ACPA Provides a National Perspective in OKC

Last week, the Oklahoma/Arkansas Chapter of ACPA hosted its 2026 Annual Oklahoma Concrete Pavement Conference. Eric Ferrebee, ACPA’s Senior Director of Technical Services, was on hand and delivered national perspectives on concrete paving across the country. Eric’s presentation covered changes in the recent paving market, some of ACPA’s priorities, and how practices have been evolving recently. The presentation aimed to move the industry forward and improve practices with lessons learned from across the country. Additional presentations covered smoothness topics, with Larry Scofield (ACPA/IGGA) covering how IRI is measured and how this can help improve smooth pavements. Presentations also covered mixtures properties, a fresh look for concrete pavements for local agencies, and addressing premature failures in concrete pavements.

ACPA Teaches Design Optimization in Minnesota

Last week, the Concrete Paving Association of Minnesota held its 65th Annual Workshop in Breezy Point, Minnesota. The workshop brought together DOT engineers, consulting engineers, and industry professionals to learn and improve upon best practices. ACPA’s Eric Ferrebee was joined by Jim Mack (WJE and former ACPA Chairman) in teaching best practices for improving pavement design practices to achieve optimized designs. The presentation covered strategies for optimizing designs not just for initial cost, but long-term performance and life-cycle costs. The presentation also highlighted how everyone in the industry plays a role in and is impacted by pavement design. Nick Davis (IGGA/ACPA) also presented at the workshop covering the importance of proper preservation of concrete pavements with diamond grinding. Other presentations covered topics such as trial batching, joint activation through early loading, dowel bar performance, and innovative and sustainable materials. 

ACPA Brings Technical Expertise to Packed Colorado/Wyoming Workshop

The Colorado/Wyoming Chapter of the ACPA hosted a highly successful annual workshop in Denver last week, drawing a crowd of approximately 275 attendees. The event fostered a collaborative environment with a robust mix of representation from the Department of Transportation, local industry leaders, and engineering consultants.

ACPA maintained a strong technical presence throughout the sessions. Sarah Dalton, Senior Director of Engineering and Construction, provided critical insights into the latest concrete overlay designs as well as updates to FAA specifications. Complementing the airfield focus, Harold Honey, Chief Engineer, delivered a deep dive into the use of FAARFIELD for airfield pavement design, while Larry Scofield led a comprehensive discussion on the best practices for concrete pavement preservation. 

ACPA at Upcoming Conferences: Where to Find Us Next 

ACPA’s team of technical experts will be speaking at these upcoming conferences and workshops. 

  • Asset/Pavement Management and Balancing Preservation/Repair with Reconstruction, California Concrete Pavement Conference, April 22, Eric Ferrebee