Safe-to-fail climate adaption roads

Urban road transportation is particularly vulnerable to pluvial flooding which can lead to traffic disruptions, driving hazards and physical infrastructure damages, as well as extensive economic losses and the interruption of social activities. As pluvial flooding is expected to become more frequent due to climate change, there is a need to adapt the road infrastructure. Municipalities are making climate adaptation plans in which roads are used for stormwater retention and diversion. There is, however, a lack of knowledge and understanding on how this should be done. Potential impacts of climate adaptation measures on the resilience of the transportation infrastructure and the safety of road users have not been investigated. In addition, the implementation of the plans is hampered by implementation costs, limited institutional capacity, organizational barriers, conflicting goals, and societal inertia.

This project aims to develop safe-to-fail climate-adapted roads that address both traffic needs and climate resilience. The project will use three case study areas in the Gothenburg Region and use advanced stormwater modelling tools to assess whether flooding risks are reduced by climate adaptation measures. Roads that are suitable for stormwater retention or diversion will be identified. The design of the roads will then be modified to maximize retention or water flow. Road design principles, traffic information and stakeholder input will be considered to ensure the safety and functionality of the roads. Finally, a multi-criteria decision-making framework will be developed to support the implementation of climate adaptation roads.