Integration of Light Detection and Ranging Technology with Photogrammetry in Highway Location and Design

Surface terrain information is needed to economically site new or relocate existing infrastructure facilities and make final design plans. Field surveying and photogrammetric mapping are the methods most widely used to acquire these data. However, these methods are time- and resource-intensive, as significant data collection and reduction are needed to provide the level of detail necessary for facility location and design. Light detection and ranging (LIDAR) is a relatively new alternative technology for obtaining terrain information more efficiently. With LIDAR, data can be collected under a variety of environmental conditions, including low sun angle, cloudy skies, and even darkness, resulting in expanded windows for data collection. Although less accurate than photogrammetric mapping, LIDAR can help expedite the highway location and design process by providing designers with preliminary terrain information earlier in the process. Presented is a proposed methodology for using LIDAR in conjunction with photogrammetric mapping to speed up highway location and design activities, including estimates of time and cost savings.