NRMCA Senior Director, Local Paving, Phil Kresge recently spoke with representatives from the construction and store development division of AutoZone to discuss their pavement design and specifications. During the discussion, Kresge confirmed that AutoZone still prefers concrete pavement and is still very much interested in obtaining bids for both rigid and flexible pavement on all new construction projects. As a result of the meeting, AutoZone has provided a copy of its current design and specifications for NRMCA review. Additionally, Kresge introduced the Design Assistance Program (DAP) and invited AutoZone to utilize the program for upcoming projects.

"While AutoZone does have a minimum acceptable design for concrete pavement, it defers to the geotechnical and civil engineers for actual pavement design on individual projects," Kresge said. "Unfortunately, more often than not, this results in over designed pavements that prohibit concrete from providing a competitive bid."

Both NRMCA and AutoZone are interested in eliminating the over designs and are asking for assistance from the concrete industry. "If there is an AutoZone project planned for your area, I encourage you to contact the civil and/or geotechnical engineer to discuss proper concrete parking lot design. Or, if you prefer, you can provide the contact information to your NRMCA local paving director for follow-up," Kresge said.