AI + PCI: How Surface Tech Is Transforming Asphalt Pavement Evaluation
“Accuracy Matters. Performance Is on the Road.”
At Surface Tech, Accuracy Matters. Performance Is on the Road is more than a slogan—it’s a commitment. As pioneers of next-generation asphalt technology, we’re pairing the unmatched performance of ARCA with best-in-class AI tools to deliver smarter, faster, and more accurate pavement evaluations.
And it’s changing the game.
The Power of PCI + AI
The Pavement Condition Index (PCI) is a critical metric in evaluating the structural and surface health of asphalt roads. Traditionally, PCI scoring has relied on manual, subjective visual assessments—slow, inconsistent, and prone to human error.
But that’s no longer acceptable.
We’ve partnered with Tiger Eye Analytics, developed by Bill Butler at the University of Missouri, to bring AI-driven PCI evaluation into our digital technology stack. Tiger Eye uses high-resolution imaging, machine learning, and advanced pattern recognition to automate PCI scoring with unprecedented accuracy, objectivity, and speed.
No clipboards. No guesswork. Just data-driven clarity.
Watch the ARCA PCI Performance Video here
Why This Matters
Accurate PCI scoring isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the foundation for strategic pavement management. For owners and agencies looking to reduce lifecycle costs, optimize maintenance schedules, and justify capital spending, a precise understanding of pavement condition is non-negotiable.
And when combined with Surface Tech’s ARCA (Aramid Reinforced Composite Asphalt) solutions, the feedback loop becomes complete: we design for performance, and AI proves it on the road.
Case Study: South Beckley Station Road, Louisville, KY
One of the earliest and most compelling examples of this synergy is the South Beckley Station Road resurfacing project, completed in October 2015 for the Louisville Metro Government.
Project Overview
- Location: South Beckley Station Road, Louisville, KY
- Date: October 2015
- Materials: PG 64-22 asphalt mix + ACE XP Aramid Fiber
Results
Nearly 10 years later, the results are clear—validated by Tiger Eye’s AI-driven PCI evaluations:
- ACE XP section average PCI: 70
- Controll no fibersection average PCI: 30
This difference isn’t subtle—it’s a nearly decade-long case study in how ARCA reinforced asphalt + intelligent data = superior performance.
Benefits Observed
- Reduced cracking and rutting
- Enhanced durability
- Lower maintenance requirements
- Extended pavement lifespan
The outcome? A landmark success that led Louisville to expand its adoption of ACE XP citywide.
Bringing It All Together
From automated dosing at the plant to automated pavement condition scoring in the field, Surface Tech is eliminating guesswork at every stage of the asphalt lifecycle. Our approach ensures that performance is not only built into the mix—it’s measured, validated, and proven with cutting-edge tools.
We’re not in the business of “close enough.”
We’re in the business of proven performance.
Explore the Future of Pavement Performance
Curious to see the visual dashboard of PCI scores from South Beckley? Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing snapshots of the Tiger Eye system in action as part of our commitment to transparent, data-backed infrastructure innovation.
Because in our world, accuracy matters—and performance is on the road.
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