Author(s)

M. V. Lisboa & J. Waisman

Abstract

This paper contains the proposition of a methodological process to be used during the planning phase of urban highways. It refers to a multicriteria analysis tool which selects the best route for a future highway considering not only geometrical engineering topics, most often used for highways definitions, but also important issues for modern society, such as environmental ones. This methodology was applied on the study of alignment alternatives of Sao Paulo’s Ring Road, through interviews with some members of society and application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process. Keywords: decision making, road alignment, analytic hierarchy process, sustainable environment. 1 Introduction The concern about environmental issues has increased as the search for sustainable development continues. It has brought the need for an alignment alternative study of a road project to be accomplished based on coherence and quality. Emphasis on environmental aspects during alignment alternatives studies is considered, by technicians and consultants of developed countries, the most correct and economic way to assure a good road enterprise (McCormack [7]). The defining process of the best alignment for a future urban highway can be considered one of the most important and delicate stages for its success. Therefore, a road enterprise characterized by its multidisciplinary aspects needs

Keywords

decision making, road alignment, analytic hierarchy process, sustainable environment.