PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (November 3, 2025) – Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) continues to strengthen its role in advancing Texas’ transportation infrastructure through two new research collaborations with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
TxDOT has awarded more than $1.2M across two projects led by Texas A&M University, with PVAMU serving as a co-principal investigator on both under the direction of Kai-Wei Liu, Ph.D., Lecturer I in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. PVAMU’s combined participation will be supported with more than $50,000 in funding.
Kai-Wei Liu, Ph.D.
The first project, “Develop Best Practices for Temporary Pavement Design and Construction,” awarded $663,869, is led by Texas A&M Research Engineer Darlene Goehl. The study aims to establish best practices for designing and constructing temporary pavements and detours—critical components of roadway projects that often face premature failures and costly repairs. Researchers will evaluate existing pavement conditions, assess design and construction methods, and recommend improvements to enhance durability, safety, and efficiency. Findings are expected to inform updates to TxDOT’s pavement design manual and field test procedures, providing engineers and inspectors with stronger tools for successful project outcomes.
The second project, “Investigate the Effects of Using Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) as Aggregate in Seal Coats,” awarded $623,456, is led by Texas A&M Assistant Research Engineer Carl Bierman. This joint research aims to develop construction guidelines and recommendations for using RAP in seal coats for pavement maintenance across Texas. Incorporating RAP offers potential benefits, including cost savings, improved moisture resistance, and enhanced durability. Given Texas’ unique climate and frequent multi-layer seal coat applications, the study will develop test methods, material selection criteria, and quality control procedures to ensure reliable performance.
With RAP materials readily available from rehabilitation projects, their use in seal coats presents a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to traditional aggregates. The findings will provide TxDOT with the technical foundation to integrate RAP into statewide maintenance practices—supporting both economic efficiency and environmental stewardship.
PVAMU’s continued involvement in these projects underscores its commitment to applied research and innovation that contribute to a safer, more resilient, and sustainable transportation system for Texas.
By Joe McGinty