State of Montana's Rock Slope Asset Management Program (RAMP) 
The State of Montana's transportation network is located on or adjacent to thousands of rock slopes. Many of these aging slopes are prone to rockfall and pose a significant risk to the traveling public. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) manages their rock slope assets to emphasize quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness through proactive condition and risk assessments. These efforts have been coupled with properly timed interventions to reduce potential impacts to its transportation infrastructure. MDT retained CCI-LT to update the original Statewide Rockfall Hazard Rating System (RHRS) so that it could be integrated with their overall Transportation Asset Management (TAM) Plan. CCI-LT led a team of nationally recognized experts to develop the Rock Slope Asset Management Program (RAMP) to support MDT's TAM program.

Our team updated rating criteria for over 400 of the highest risk rockfall and rock slope sites in the state to be compatible with the TAM program. We determined current critical sites and groups of sites to create a selection process for MDT to prioritize capital improvement projects and long-range planning strategies. CCI-LT developed cost/benefit scenarios to include safety considerations, highway use, and maintenance components to help MDT identify and prioritize the most critical sites.
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Repeating geologic structure with adversely dipping joints are a common geologic hazard that results in rockfall events.
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Map showing various RAMP site selections and their relative costs for improvements based on a series of factors, including accessibility, slope angle, and existing protections.
Project Highlights
Montana's geology is a fascinating tapestry woven over billions of years. The state's diverse landscape, from the rolling plains of the east to the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains in the west, is a direct result of its complex geological history. Much of Montana's highway system traverses mountainous terrain, making road construction and maintenance challenging. The state's harsh winter weather, including snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, can significantly impact road conditions and travel safety. Despite these challenges, Montana's highway system is essential for the state's economy and quality of life. MDT works diligently to maintain the roads and ensure safe travel for residents and visitors alike. 

The project was nominated by MDT and awarded an AASHTO ‘Sweet Sixteen’ award for high value research at the project’s conclusion.
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Panoramic view of a rock slope asset stored in the RAMP database of potential rockfall sites in Montana.
Owner: Montana Department of Transportation
More Information: Montana Department of Transportation - Maintained Routes