Empirical Analysis for Modeling Spatial Variation in Right of Way Acquisition Durations

Abstract

The objectives of this research are to analyze empirical Right of Way (ROW) acquisition process records to quantitatively determine key project features influencing ROW acquisition durations and examine the spatial variation of the features’ effects. This research used database of 495 projects that finished ROW acquisition process between the year 2010 and 2019 by Georgia Department of Transportation. The multiple linear regression is performed to identify significant variables that impact acquisition duration. Then, the geographically weighted regression analysis is conducted to examine spatial variations of variables’ effects across the geographical locations. Acquisition durations tend to increase as the number of parcels and the average cost estimate per parcel increases, the design is completed by consultant or regional office, and the type of work is roadway and widening projects. The analysis results indicate that variables’ effects vary throughout areas of the state. Therefore, ROW practitioners should consider giving different weights to project features depending on the project’s location when setting the ROW acquisition schedule to reduce risks of schedule delays and cost overruns. It is anticipated that findings of this research will provide insights to ROW practitioners on how to improve ROW acquisition timeline estimations and better manage the risks.