EVALUATION OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE PERFORMANCES OF URBAN COBBLESTONE ROAD CONSTRUCTIONPROJECTS IN THE CASE OF HOSSANA TOWN, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA.

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.