Work

Critical Risk Factors Affecting Time and Cost in Highway Construction: A Global Systematic Literature Review

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: This study presents a systematic literature review of critical risk factors affecting the time and cost performance of highway construction projects. Drawing from 83 peer-reviewed studies across multiple geographic regions, the paper identifies recurrent drivers of project delay and cost overrun in highway construction. The most frequently reported risks include (1) financial constraints, (2) political regulatory issues; (3) land-acquisition and right-of-way delays; (4) design and scope changes; (5) utilities relocation/conflicts; (6) materials and equipment shortages; (7) contractor-related issues; (8) planning and scheduling weaknesses; (9) labour and personnel issues; and (10) weather conditions. These risk factors collectively highlight the importance of robust planning, proactive stakeholder coordination, and the integration of risk-informed decision-making tools. The findings emphasize the need for targeted risk mitigation during early project stages and provide a foundation for refining risk assessment frameworks and future research directions in transport infrastructure development.

Source: Future Transportation

DOI: 10.3390/futuretransp5040192

Authors: Aigul Zhasmukhambetova, Harry Evdorides, Richard J. Davies

Institution: University of Birmingham

Language: English

Topic: Construction Project Management and Performance

Subfield: Management Science and Operations Research

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207