Using genetic algorithms for long-term planning of network of bridges

Bridge maintenance activities are often budgeted, scheduled and conducted for networks of bridges with different ages, types and conditions, which can make bridge network maintenance management challenging. In this study, we propose an improved maintenance planning model based on genetic algorithm for a network of bridges to bring a long-term perspective to the lifespan of bridges. To test the applicability and efficiency of the model, it is applied to a network of 100 bridges in one of the south-western provinces of Iran. The results of the model implementation show considerable potential for improvement over the currently adopted model for bridge maintenance planning.