Abstract:
In Ethiopia, the cobblestone concept was brought into practice with the help of World Bank
and Urban local government. Cobblestone roads have emerged as a popular choice for
urban road construction projects, owing to their durability, cost-effectiveness, and
compatibility with local materials. The study aimed to assess factors that influence
performance of urban cobblestone road construction projects in the case of Hossanatown,
central Ethiopia.The study utilizedQuestionnaire survey and site observation tools and the
result was analyzed using factor analysis and linear multiple regression analysis. A census
was conducted to collect information from the whole 105 target population. So, descriptive
statistics, factor analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were employed to analyze
data collected from sampled respondent. The result of study showed that, Time performance
impacted by: -change orders after owner‟s interferences and delay in payments; financial
shortages and political interferences; and incompetency of project contractors. While,cost
performance affected by: governance instability and associated budget difficulties and poor
decision making, erroneous estimations and price inflations. Although,lack of required
experience, standards, and quality materials; lack of top quality trainings for staff capacity
development; and lack of stakeholder‟s meetings, community participationsimpair quality
performances.In contrary, proper project planning with top management support and
improved workmanship, maintenance requirements, and road utilization mechanismsshall
enhance time performance. Likewise, proper project design and documentation
managementand timely maintenance of cobble stone roads through community
participationcould enhance cost performance. While, ensure design and utilization of cobble
stone roads match standardsand adopting proper road segments, edges and standard cobble
stoneswould help to enhance quality performances of urban cobble stone roads. Finding the
factors influencing performance and enhancement dimension of the cobblestone construction
projects in the aforementioned area is the primary goal of this study. Finally, the study
recommended to project stakeholders for effective and efficient urban cobblestone road
construction to ensure project success.
