What is a common challenge faced during highway construction projects?

Weather-related delays pose a significant challenge during highway construction projects primarily because adverse weather conditions can halt operations, disrupt schedules, and lead to increased costs. Rain, snow, extreme heat, and cold temperatures can directly impact the work environment, making it unsafe or impractical for construction crews to operate machinery or perform tasks such as paving, pouring concrete, or grading.

Additionally, weather variations can affect the quality of materials used in construction, leading to the potential for rework or subpar quality if not handled properly. These delays can also result in a cascading effect, where subsequent phases of construction are pushed back, leading to further disruption in project timelines and budgets. Thus, managing schedules and maintaining flexibility in planning is crucial for successful project completion in the face of these unpredictable weather-related challenges.