Book excerpt: An exclusive collection of papers introducing current and frontier technologies of special significance to the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of civil infrastructures. This volume is intended for professional and practicing engineers involved with infrastructure systems such as roadways, bridges, buildings, power generating and distribution systems, water resources, environmental facilities, and other civil infrastructure systems. Contributions are by internationally renowned and eminent experts, and cover: 1. Life-cycle cost and performance; 2.Reliability engineering; 3. Risk assessment and management; 4. Optimization methods and optimal design; 5. Role of maintenance, inspection, and repair; 6. Structural and system health monitoring; 7. Durability, fatigue and fracture; 8. Corrosion technology for metal and R/C structures; 9. Concrete materials and concrete structures.