Review of Flexible Pavement Design Converted to Rigid Pavement

Case Study: Reconstruction Project of the Labanan – Tepian Buah Main Road, Berau Regency

Abstract

Road pavement is a critical element in transportation infrastructure that must be designed in accordance with traffic conditions and subgrade characteristics. This study aims to evaluate the application of a design review from a flexible pavement system to a rigid pavement system in the reconstruction project of the Labanan–Tepian Buah main road, Berau Regency. This road serves as a strategic route frequently used by heavy-loaded vehicles, thereby requiring a pavement structure capable of withstanding substantial loads. The research adopts a technical and economic analysis approach, evaluating structural requirements, traffic characteristics, subgrade conditions, and estimating the cost and duration of implementation for each pavement type. The results show that rigid pavement offers superior strength, durability, and long-term maintenance efficiency. Although the initial construction cost of rigid pavement reached Rp9,530,689,649—approximately 10% higher than that of flexible pavement—its longer service life and reduced maintenance expenses make it more cost-effective over the long term. In addition, the construction period for rigid pavement can be shortened to approximately 50 working days, which is about 21% faster than the flexible pavement implementation timeline, provided that effective time management is applied. Considering the technical performance, cost implications, and time efficiency, the design shift from flexible pavement to rigid pavement on this road section is assessed to be both appropriate and feasible. This study may serve as a reference for technical decision-making in similar road projects, especially in regions with heavy traffic loads and weak subgrade conditions.