Abstract This paper presents an innovative application of airborne laser and aerial photo
technologies in conjunction with Global Positioning Systems (GPS) receivers for cost-effective
management of highway corridors, airports, and related transportation infrastructure assets. This
is accomplished by producing digital terrain models, generating digital mapping databases, and
linking various data sources through user-friendly geographical information system (GIS)
software. LIDAR is an acronym for Light Detection And Ranging, commonly called Airborne
Laser Terrain Mapping. The LIDAR survey provides low-altitude, high speed laser scanning up
to 81 sq. km (20,000 acres) per day, which permits an accuracy of 15 cm, and up to 0.3-m (1-ft)
contours. There are no operating constraints, such as: vegetation cover, traffic, usage, or time of
day. Results are presented from an on-going study of Raleigh Bypass highway alignment project
funded by NASA through the Mississippi Space Commerce Initiative (MSCI) and supported by
the Mississippi Department of Transportation. The data accuracy, efficiency, time saving, and
cost-effectiveness of the airborne laser technology are compared to conventional ground based
methods of terrain data acquisition. It is recognized that these airborne technologies are
complementary to the currently used in-vehicle videologging and detailed visual condition
assessment methods. An application of digital database acquired by the airborne LIDAR method
is illustrated for Oxford, a small university town in a rural area of Northern Mississippi. Proof of
concept and documentation of benefits will lead to a commercially positioned process and
product mix of importance to every infrastructure manager.