Opening Session
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Includes Roll Call, General Assembly/Business Meeting and our Keynote Speaker.
Welcome and Opening Remarks: Mike Plant, President & CEO of the Atlanta Braves
Mike Plant is in his 17th season with the Braves and his third as President and Chief Executive Officer, Braves Development Company. Plant joined the organization as executive vice president of business operations in November of 2003.
As part of the Braves executive leadership team, Plant was instrumental in the Braves’ efforts to secure and plan Truist Park and the adjacent mixed-use development, The Battery Atlanta, which opened in Cobb County in April 2017. The creative and innovative approach Plant led since the project’s inception has been recognized as a leading example of how to structure a successful Public/Private partnership now generating substantial returns for multiple government entities. Plant’s oversight and direct responsibility for managing all aspects of design, project management, financing, leasing and construction led to delivering approximately 2.5MM square feet in less than 36 months.
Keynote Speaker: Michael Thurmond, CEO of Dekalb County, GA
Additional Information will be added as it is made available. Thank you for your patience.
Technical Session #1A – Connected Vehicles
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners
Presented by: James Nguyen Transportation Engineer & Greg Ramsey Director of Public Works and Engineering, City of Peachtree Corners
Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners is a publicly funded living lab designed to provide a real-world test environment to advance next-generation intelligent mobility and smart city technology. Peachtree Corners, Georgia is a vibrant suburb of Atlanta and is one of the first smart cities in the U.S. to be powered by city-owned connected infrastructure and 5G.
Located within a 500-acre technology park where 7500 people work and more than 1000 people live, Curiosity Lab provides unique infrastructure and a supportive government to facilitate innovation. Early-stage startups, universities, and established companies are all welcome to join our innovation ecosystem.
The forward-thinking municipality, which is home to some of the world’s most disruptive technology developers, established Curiosity Lab: a smart city living laboratory designed to facilitate the development and adoption of emerging technologies in real-world conditions that can’t be replicated in a closed environment. The centerpiece is the “city street of the future”: a three-mile autonomous vehicle test and demo lane – part of a completely connected public street that handles more than 9,000 cars daily – where vehicles can communicate with infrastructure and pedestrians through the latest in the cellular vehicle to everything (C-V2X) technology and an array of sensors and edge computing.
For more information, please visit the website at http://www.curiositylabptc.com
Topic: Panel Discussion on EV Charging Infrastructure in Georgia
While use of EVs is expected to increase significantly, the deployment of charging infrastructure is not keeping pace. Nationally, Congress passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) establishing the National EV Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program to fund installation of DC fast charging (DCFC) stations at no greater 50 miles apart on the designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFC). The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), along with 49 other states, has developed an EV Infrastructure Deployment Plan which has been approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Regionally, in metro Atlanta, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) will develop a Regional Transportation Electrification Plan (RTEP) to identify regionally important corridors outside the AFCs and develop EV charging infrastructure (EVCI) strategies in the near-term, mid-term, and long-term. The Town Center Community Improvement District (CID) is developing an electrification plan to promote the installation of EVCI and support development of a national and regional EVCI network. In this panel discussion, we will hear from the state, regional, and local entities in Georgia on their current EVCI planning activities and ongoing technical, operations, and funding challenges for EVCI planning.
Panelist 1 | Panelist 2 | Panelist 3 | Moderator |
---|---|---|---|
John Hibbard, PE | Kofi Wakhisi | Alisha Smith | Christy Jeon, Ph.D., PE, PTOE, AICP |
Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) | Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) | Town Center Community Improvement District (CID) | Atkins North America |
Technical Session #1B – Alternative Project Delivery
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Alternative Delivery Program at GDOT
Speaker: Andrew Hoenig Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) P3 Construction Program Manager & Cleopatra (Cleo) Vicks GDOT Express Lanes Program Manager
Alternative Delivery Program @ GDOT – To ensure GDOT continues to provide much-needed transportation infrastructure projects to Georgia, alternate delivery methods are being utilized to keep up with the growing demand. This presentation will focus on the different methods including P3, Design Build, and CMGC that GDOT is currently utilizing to meet this demand.
Topic: I-285 @ I-20 East Interchange Improvements
Speaker: Tom Daniel, PE Parsons Transportation Group (GEC) & Matt Fowler Georgia Department of Transportation (Owner)
As our 1960s era infrastructure ages, utilizing practical design measures in lieu of wholesale reconstruction becomes a necessity for cost and schedule efficiencies. This presentation provides a recent and relevant case study in metropolitan Atlanta on the nuanced application of practical design and engineering judgement in the modern era.
The I-285 at I-20 East Interchange Reconstruction Project is one of the pioneering projects in Georgia DOT’s massive Major Mobility Investment Program (MMIP), a selection of interstate and interchange alternative delivery projects programmed to improve safety and add capacity at some of the most heavily traveled locations throughout Georgia’s major metro areas.
The existing infrastructure was initially constructed more than a half-century ago using long-outdated design standards. Full replacement to meet current standards was not financially viable as it would necessitate replacing virtually all existing pavement on I-285 and I-20 and reconstructing all bridges within the project limits.
In the pre-let phase, the project team developed 30% costing plans that applied a practical design approach to reconstruct rather than replace this multi-level interchange along with nearly ten miles of both interstates. This presentation will explain the development of this approach and will review some of the critical cost-saving measures, such as cross slope corrections and typical section adjustments, that were implemented in the costing plans as a result of engineering judgement, safety analysis, and coordination with the owner and other agencies.
Ultimately, these measures minimized environmental impacts and the amount of right-of-way required from adjacent communities, which are predominantly comprised of minority and low-income populations. After a successful procurement process that met GDOT’s schedule goals, the project was awarded as a $697 million Design-Build-Finance contract, also meeting GDOT’s financial goals, all while addressing the project need and purpose.
Topic: Selecting the Right Alternative Project Delivery Model, using CMGC and Progressive Design-Build in Transportation
Transportation Alternative Project Delivery projects have become increasing complex, risk has become a challenge for owners, design professionals and contractors. The rising cost of materials, labor and inflation serve to worsen the risks for all. But there are methods that can be advantageous to owners and contractors. The selection of the right method is not scientific, there are legislative hurtles to navigate, local experience is a factor, and the owner must understand the benefits and limitations of each method. CMGC and PDB are not a silver bullet but can be an important tool in a public agency’s toolkit.
Panelist
James Ranger | Dave Pupkiewicz, FDBIA | Chris Shaeffer |
---|---|---|
Michigan DOT | Flatiron Construction | RS&H |
James Ranger is a project manager in the Innovative Contracting Unit at the Michigan Department of Transportation, where he specializes in alternative delivery, including the use of design-build and construction manager/general contractor (CMGC). James has worked on a variety of projects with scopes including freeway and interchange reconstruction, bridge reconstruction, and complex bridge rehabilitation, to name a few. Prior to his work on alternative delivery projects, James worked in MDOT’s bridge design section, where he designed, managed, and provided construction assistance on bridge reconstruction and rehabilitation projects. | David Pupkiewicz, FDBIA is the Director Business Development for Flatiron Construction’s Mid-Atlantic Division. His role encompasses team formation, agreement negotiation, owner interaction, design coordination, and pursuit management for design-build, CMGC, and P3 transportation projects. Mr. Pupkiewicz has over 35 years of construction industry and design-build experience. His primary focus over the last 25+ years has been in alternative project delivery, from procurement, through project closeout. His experience spans numerous market sectors including transportation (highways, bridges, airport facilities, and transit/rail), water and wastewater, and government facilities. Mr. Pupkiewicz earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Technology from the University of Dayton in Ohio. He has been recognized with Fellow status as a DBIA Designated Design-Build Professional and has served in leadership roles for several associations including the DBIA and CAGC. | Chris Shaeffer has technical experience in the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation-related infrastructure projects. As Senior Program Manager at RS&H, he has provided advisories services to public sector clients, offering technical, commercial, and project and program management services for the development and implementation of Design-Build, Progressive Design-Build, CM/GC, and Public-Private Partnerships projects. Additionally, he has worked with a number of private consortia seeking to design, build, finance, operate, and/or maintain infrastructure projects through alternative delivery methods. |
Technical Session #1C – ASHE Region and Sections Officer meeting
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
ASHE Region/Section Officers Meeting
Speaker: Tim Matthews Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
The Section/Region Officers’ meeting is opportunity for ASHE local, regional, and national leadership to get together to exchange information and for local leadership to get an insight into National activities and events. Because of the importance of this gathering, we will be providing a time during the National Conference for all section and region leadership to gather.
Luncheon Honoring Past Presidents
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Entertainment Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Celebrate the dedication, hard work and efforts of those who have served the ASHE organization from past to present. In addition to honoring the past president’s, the luncheon will include an Awards Presentation for the Project of the Year Awards and Person of the Year/Robert E. Pearson Award.
This year’s Person of the Year/Robert E. Pearson award winner is Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, Georgia Department of Transportation.
- No other lunch provided at conference
- This event is free for all Past ASHE National Presidents
Technical Session #2A – Multi-Modal Facilities
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Transforming the Chattahoochee RiverLands Study into Design (Trail Design – Planning and Engineering)
Speakers: Zack Lammers, PE Senior Transportation Engineer, Gresham Smith & Erin Thoresen, AICP Senior Transportation Planner, Gresham Smith
The Chattahoochee RiverLands Greenway Study is an ambitious, regional-scale project. It spans 100 miles, from Buford Dam to Chattahoochee Bend State Park, and involves seven counties and 19 cities. This project, funded by Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), Cobb County, Trust for Public Land, and City of Atlanta, started as a vision for 125 miles of greenway trails, as well as blueways and park spaces across Metro Atlanta. The plan seeks to develop a safe and connective multimodal corridor; connect communities to public spaces that promote economic development, remediation and restoration; and provide an ecological refuge for the region.
During the Greenway Study, a conceptual Pilot Project was developed to test these ideas on the ground. The site consisted of Cobb-owned land along the Chattahoochee River and the concept represented the first step in the larger rollout of the Chattahoochee RiverLands. The concept included 2.4 miles of meandering multi-use and unpaved trails, boardwalks and bridges throughout the site and provided opportunities for rest and interaction, with educational and social nooks and overlooks. The pilot project helped demonstrate design strategies that will ultimately lead to a cohesive network of public trails.
Cobb County further developed the Pilot Project with preliminary engineering for a portion of the project – Chattahoochee River Trail Pedestrian Improvements Phase 1. During this phase, further lessons were learned. These also helped inform phase one of the RiverLands Design Guidelines, which were simultaneously being developed. This project has been let to construction and is anticipated to be under way in February 2023.
Topic: Firefly Bridge over Trail Creek (Public Engagement and Pedestrian Bridge)
Speakers: Nathan Currier and Eric Bosman Kimley-Horn and Associates
Is that structure historic or just old? Should we tear it down, repurpose it, or avoid it? Through this case study and candid discussion, we’ll examine the engagement and design processes that brought new life to old infrastructure.
A critical link in the Firefly Trail, a 39-mile rail trail project between Athens, GA to Union Point, GA, the Firefly Bridge over Trail Creek completes an existing gap at Dudley Park in Athens, GA. The new bridge replaces an old railroad trestle known as the REM “Murmur Trestle” 20+ years after the City purchased it from the railroad. This new pedestrian bridge gives a nod to the railroad history and cultural significance of the original “Murmur Trestle”, incorporating new steel arches and new timber trestle.
This session will include a review of engagement and design efforts which highlight the successes and challenges related to inclusion and engagement with the full spectrum of community voices and perspectives. Specifically including community discussions surrounding recognition of African American builders who constructed the original trestle. We will also discuss the challenges and successes in design and construction through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Topic: Atlanta Beltline
Speaker: Shaun Green Atlanta Beltline Initiative
“The Atlanta BeltLine, A Street Without Cars.”
The Atlanta BeltLine is the most comprehensive transportation and economic development effort ever undertaken in the City of Atlanta and among the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs currently underway in the United States. It is a sustainable redevelopment project that will ultimately connect 45 intown neighborhoods via a 22-mile loop of multi-use trails, modern streetcar, and parks – repurposing former freight railroad corridors that encircle Atlanta. When completed, it will provide first and last mile connectivity for regional transportation initiatives and provide a framework along which Atlanta can continue to develop for the next 50-100 years.
About the Speaker:
Shaun Green joined ABI in 2013 as Senior Transportation Engineer. His professional career has focused on urban, multi-modal transportation systems. Before joining ABI, Green spent ten years with the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA) and worked as a consulting engineer prior to that. He is a graduate of the prestigious North Avenue Trade School here in Atlanta and has been a bicycle commuter since 1994. He plays beer-league ice-hockey, makes sawdust, does occasional band gigs as a drummer, and believes himself to be a lot funnier than he actually is. He and his wife have three daughters.
Technical Session #2B – Technology
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: GDOT Signal Operations (Sig-Ops) [Traffic Operations]
Speakers: Gul Amir Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) & Andy Phlegar Gresham Smith
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has raised the bar on traffic signal operations and maintenance throughout the state over the past decade. During this time, GDOT has developed a suite of tools and resources to support the efforts of the engineers working in the Signal Operations (SigOps) programs.
This presentation will discuss various GDOT tools available to signal timing engineers, including
Maxview/Maxtime provides real-time access to view and modify the timing plans and actions at an individual (or group) of traffic signals.
Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM) provides up to the minute access to traffic signal outputs including detection activity, signal phase termination history and other metrics to help identify and solve traffic issues. ATSPM’s detector data provides sufficient traffic volume information to support operational decisions.
SigOps Metrics provides a dashboard of trend data to support region-wide views of signal operations.
Numetric streamlines the collection of crash history data to support safety oriented operational decisions.
NaviGAtor provides real-time incident management information and full access to CCTVs throughout the region. CCTV video is critical in developing real-time signal timing responses to incidents as they are impacting our roads.
Gresham Smith will present real-world scenarios where these tools were implemented to identify solutions to underlying problems and/or respond to real-time incidents causing major congestion.
Topic: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
Speaker: Said el Said, PE, Ph.D. Neel-Schaffer
As technology evolves and improves, it is imperative that Information Technology (IT) departments have a major seat at the table in the planning, design, and implementation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).
IT has become a major partner on projects involving deployment of ITS technology. New challenges are being introduced to satisfy and meet the criteria devices and systems. The deployed technology must satisfy essential criteria introduced by IT to ensure the ITS is secured, compatible, upgradable, and supportable. IT departments worry about the system being agile, resilient, scalable, and modular. Thus, if IT is not a stakeholder at the table at the planning stage of highway projects, the project will require more changes with progress towards design, contracting, deployment, acceptance, and integration.
In addition to coordination with IT, ITS systems are becoming more sophisticated by including Center to Center connectivity, Artificial Intelligence software development, and Real Time connectivity. These challenges require new contracting language that is not typically included in highway contracts and specifications. Thus, IT has become an integral part of ITS and must be treated that way, with a seat at the table from the beginning of any transportation project involving the implementation of ITS devices.
Said founded the ITS section for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), and after 18 years with TDOT, he joined Neel-Schaffer where he is the ITS Program Manager. His job is to help clients understand rapidly evolving transportation technology which includes connected vehicles, unmanned aerial systems, and smart infrastructure applications.
Topic: Comparing Connected Vehicle Data Accuracy to Optical Traffic Sensors: What’s the Real Truth on the Ground?
Speaker: Glynn Dennis Jr., Ph.D. Rekor
The transportation industry is well aware of the massive amount of data generated by connected vehicles (CVs). This data can power insights into traffic patterns, helping city planners and traffic engineers make more informed decisions for projects. CV data can supplement existing infrastructure, like optical traffic sensors, providing more expansive roadway coverage, especially in more rural regions. Despite all of this, it has been difficult to determine the accuracy of CV data when it comes to measuring average daily traffic (ADT) and driver speeds.
Rekor, which provides Al-based solutions for traffic analytics and transportation management, recently conducted a research study comparing aggregated CV data to data derived from its traffic sensors deployed in the southeastern US. Rekor’s team specifically focused on the accuracy of vehicle count and speed data along eight individual road segments. This investigation is a comparative statistical analysis between Rekor’s optical sensors and GPS*derived CV data over a one-week time period over the fall of 2021.
Glynn Dennis, Rekor’s VP of Global Data & Analytics, will present initial findings from the study. Identifying the accuracy of each data source should help cities and DOTs become more informed on the reliability and accuracy of their data. The same methodology will be replicated next year for a larger research project in St. Louis, MO.
Based in Maryland Headquarters, Glynn Dennis Jr., Ph.D. is responsible for driving Rekor’s enterprise wide vision, strategy, and execution for all data management, analytics, and data science activities across Public Safety, Urban Mobility, and Transportation Management. Glynn brings over 20 years of experience leading large-scale, enterprise-grade digital transformation initiatives in the Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industries.
Technical Session #2C – Starting and Running an ASHE section
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: We started a new section during a Global Pandemic…And Crushed It!
Speaker: Haley R. Slifko, PE Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Region 2 Project Development
This presentation will cover how our section, ASHE Tennessee Valley, was started. It will include how ASHE National, ASHE Middle Tennessee, and ASHE Georgia guided us on how to get started, the interest meetings held, and the support from TDOT leadership. The presentation will then cover how we started recruiting officers, getting members, chartering, and moving forward, all during the COVID-19 pandemic. To close the presentation, we will discuss some of our lessons learned and what we have found to be the best practices for running our TN Valley Section.
Topic: How to Collaborate and Support a Thriving ASHE Section
ASHE Phoenix Sonoran Section
James Barr
Susie Chen-Mason
Jessica Fly, P.E., P.M.P.
Jovan Ilijevski, P.E.
Suzanne Lansford, P.E.
How does your section measure success? Is it membership numbers, fundraising, programs, networking, education, or all of the above? ASHE Phoenix Sonoran section board members will host a panel discussion on how we collaborate to support our thriving section by:
Sharing roles and maintaining continuity.
Managing the balance of public/private and design/construction for programs and board member succession.
Diversifying programs and membership to include aviation, transit, and multimodal organizations.
Planning events that support transportation businesses.
Student involvement and scholarship awards.
Topic: Unlocking the Secrets to Sustaining Growth: How to Keep Your ASHE Section Thriving!
ASHE Georgia Section
As ASHE’s largest section, it is imperative to maintain the momentum and keep members engaged and committed to the organization. One of the key strategies for achieving this is through member retention, which involves creating an environment that fosters growth, networking, and professional development. Annual events such as golf tournaments, bowling nights, poker tournaments, holiday socials, and monthly luncheons are not only fun and engaging but also provide opportunities for members to connect with one another and develop lasting relationships. It is crucial to ensure that these events are well-organized, marketed effectively, and offer a variety of sponsorship options to maximize participation. Communication is also vital, with regular newsletters, social media posts, and other channels being utilized to keep members informed and engaged. ASHE’s largest section must also focus on providing professional development opportunities, which are relevant and valuable to members, to encourage continued participation. With a concerted effort towards member retention, engagement, and professional development, ASHE’s largest section can continue to thrive and make a positive impact on the industry.
ASHE Past Presidents Meeting
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Technical Session #3A – Planning
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Overview of Subsurface Utility Engineering and ASCE 38 Standard Update
Speakers: Buck Wright & Aidan Deegan, T2 Utility Engineers
Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) is a non-destructive engineering process that combines civil engineering, geophysics, surveying, mapping, and asset management technologies to collect and manage existing utility information. The goal is to minimize risks associated with underground utilities during construction projects. The quality level used in SUE services determines the level of risk assumed by the project owner or engineer. The original ASCE 38 standard was published in 2002 and the updated version aims to provide guidance based on 20 years of experience and technological advancements to inform risk-based decision making by licensed professionals.
Topic: NDOT Tactical Urbanism Guide
Speakers: Lauren Gaines Barge Design Solutions & Justin Cole, Nashville MTA
In a world of quick fixes and temporary installments, cities around the world are looking for a means to development and implement goals related to public space, street safety, community enrichment, and more. Within the recent years, a name has been developed for this effort, Tactical Urbanism.
In 2022, the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) decided to develop a Tactical Urbanism Guide. The city has a rich history with parklets, grass roots transportation efforts, OpenStreets events, and much more. The department contracted with Barge Design Solutions, and a team was formed to review peer cities, develop a Best Practices Review, and host stakeholder meetings for key organizations (such as Metro Arts, Metro Parks, the Civic Design Center, NDOT Vision Zero, etc.).
After the stakeholder meetings are held, a Tactical Urbanism Guide will be produced from the Best Practices Review and the key stakeholder feedback. A formal Tactical Urbanism Guide will encourage more safety and community transportation improvements by locals and community organizations. It will also provide project standards and a rough outline for participants interested in implementing these projects, including who they should contact to begin the process.
To date, the best practices review is underway. It is anticipated to be completed in February of 2023.
Technical Session #3B – Safety
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) Regional Safety Strategy
ARC’s Regional Safety Strategy atlantaregional.org
Panelist:
Regan Hammond, AICP VHB, Transportation Systems Director
Frank Gross, PhD, PE VHB, Safety Practice Leader
Tejas Kotak, ARC, Senior Planner
Panelists will share techniques for systematic evaluation of historical crash data and roadway characteristics, the proven countermeasures for reducing crash risk, and the strategies developed for ARC’s Regional Safety Strategy to guide investment and improve safety outcomes in the Atlanta region.
VHB and the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) developed the first Regional Safety Strategy for the 20+ county metropolitan Atlanta region. This plan will help ARC and its partners respond to trends in transportation safety outcomes and build a safe transportation system for all users of all modes. The strategy also addresses federal and state regulations (including design guidance and performance management goals, measures, and targets) and promotes equitable outcomes. This strategy’s ultimate objective was to include implementable recommendations for how ARC and its partners can improve safety performance in the region relating to long-range planning for private, public, and active transportation modes.
Utilizing data-driven analyses (both hotspot and systemic), the strategy identified issues and specific actions that can be implemented to improve safety. The data-driven approach emphasized research and predictive modeling to inform transportation safety policies, practices, and infrastructure. Examples of the data the VHB Team analyzed include peer-reviewed studies and best practices from cities across the U.S., crash data, roadway characteristic data, traffic volumes and exposure, and transit ridership data.
The strategy’s recommendations for safer streets will be used by various metropolitan transportation planning agencies and community organizations. Recommendations will prioritize infrastructure characteristics and engineering interventions, including walkway, bikeway, and roadway designs; intersection or crossing designs; traffic calming and speed management; signage and signalization; freight and curbside logistics; and other infrastructure as needed.
Topic: Ocoee Corridor K – Targeted Approach
Speakers: Rachel R. Gentry, PE Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Region 2 Project Development & Brad Winkler, PE STV
Corridor K (US Highway 64) is part of the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS) as designated by Congress in 1965. The corridor runs between Cleveland, TN and Dillsboro, NC, including a 20-mile portion in Polk County, TN. This portion of the corridor cuts through the Ocoee River Gorge alongside lake Ocoee and the Ocoee River and is a National Scenic Byway.
The existing two-lane roadway does not meet current design standards and contains numerous roadway deficiencies and safety issues including limited shoulder widths, a lack of guardrails, substandard horizontal curves, and inadequate site distances. Further, the corridor has been riddled with rockslides and unstable rock outcroppings.
For several decades, the Tennessee Department of Transportation considered and evaluated numerous alternatives in environmentally sensitive areas from new bypasses to comprehensive widening. No option seemed to have widespread support.
For these reasons, TDOT has decided to implement targeted safety and rockslide mitigation solutions. This approach will focus resources on the most critical areas (target locations) along the corridor. The targeted improvements include roadway widening for shoulders and/or turn lanes, guardrails, rockfall catch fences, retaining walls, horizontal curve corrections, intersection improvements, and recreational access improvements.
The design of the proposed improvements along the corridor are being developed in a coordinated manner with TDOT, FHWA, ARC, U.S. Forest Service, TVA, and other public and private stakeholders. The goal of the project is to improve the safety and efficiency of the corridor through the Ocoee River Gorge, while providing additional economic development opportunities and maintaining its natural beauty.
Technical Session #3C – Infrastructure
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: LiDAR
Speaker: Matthew Jennings McKim & Creed
LiDAR (light detection and ranging) has revolutionized the way survey data is collected. No longer does surveying require placing people on roadways to get the best possible topographical data. Now surveyors can use LiDAR collected remotely to accurately measure improvements in a fraction of the time that a traditional field-run topographic survey would take. LiDAR provides a faster, safer, and less expensive product and provides a better model than traditional surveying.
This presentation will detail exactly what LiDAR is and discuss in detail the three primary types of LiDAR: aerial LiDAR, terrestrial LiDAR, and bathymetric LiDAR. As we explore aerial, terrestrial and bathymetric LiDAR, we will discuss the positional error possible, what determines the quality level for each, and the strengths and weaknesses of each type. We will look at both manned and unmanned aerial systems and both fixed-point terrestrial as well as moving terrestrial – also known as mobile mapping. We will even dive into how LiDAR can make measurements underwater.
To demonstrate LiDAR’s capabilities, we’ll walk through step-by-step as a database is created from data collection to the final product being delivered to the engineer. Along the way, we will exhibit why LiDAR is now the preferred method for route surveys. In the end, those in attendance will gain a greater understanding of the technology behind and benefits of the use LiDAR for survey data.
Topic: Hydraulics/Flooding
Speakers: Olivia Grenier Kiewit Infrastructure Engineers
When a major storm event occurs, it is a race to see who can respond the fastest and most efficiently because lives, ecosystems, and property are at stake. The 2013 floods in Colorado caused an estimated $2.9 billion in damage and was the result of an estimated 1000-year rainfall event. Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) secured increased the federal emergency fund cap from 100 million to 450 million, with the latest federal funding received in 2019 to finish the flood repair work. Now that CDOT is on the tail end of completing the remaining permanent flood repairs, we can discuss lessons learned on how to navigate limited funding agreements, prioritize the areas that were severely damaged or most impactful to public safety, and how those areas are designed for future flood resiliency. How do we approach the initial emergency repairs and then later fill in the gaps through permanent repair? We will look at the cost growth associated with the different phases of flood repair from a couple Kiewit flood repair projects, US 34 Big Thompson and State Highway 7 Lower Canyon. Kiewit performed the emergency work, and permanent repair on US 34, and the permanent repair on Highway 7 Lower Canyon. We, as contractors and engineers, are on the front line to deliver the repairs and must act under pressure from the stakeholders because they have been affected by flood repair for nearly a decade.
Technical Session #4A – Large Highway Projects
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: I-95 @ MD 152 Interchange Clayton, MD
Speaker: David A. Greenwood, PE CCM Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA)/CDM Smith
I-95 ETL Northbound Extension – Reconstruction of the Interchange at I-95 and MD 152
The Maryland Transportation Authority is reconstructing the I-95/MD 152 Interchange as part of the I-95 Express Toll Lanes (ETLs) Northbound Extension. This interchange is one of two interchanges that will be reconstructed as part of the northbound extension of the ETLs. The project includes the widening and reconstruction of I-95 and MD 152. I-95 will be widened and reconstructed to allow for four general-purpose lanes and two ETLs in the northbound direction. MD 152 will be widened to allow for two through lanes and left turn lanes for both the general-purpose lanes (NB and SB) and the ETLs (NB and future SB). The MD 152 bridge over I-95 will be widened and lengthened to accommodate the NB improvements and future SB improvements. The presentation will provide a brief overview of the program and then focus on the reconstruction of both I-95 and MD 152 (highway/bridge) in phases while maintaining all traffic lanes during the peak hour periods. Other work includes the construction of two noise walls and a waterline protection system.
Topic: I-75 @ I-24 Chattanooga, TN
Speakers: Jonathan D. Haycraft, PE, ENV SP Barge Design Solutions & Mike Nadolski, PE C.W. Matthews Contracting
Interstate 75 Interchange at Interstate 24 – TDOT
The completed Design Build project, valued at over $130 Million, modified the existing Interstate 75 at Interstate 24 Interchange in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The project area includes I-24 from just West of Spring Creek Rd. to the I-24/I-75 Interchange and I-75 from the Tennessee-Georgia state line to mile marker 3 before the East Brainerd Road Interchange. The project area also includes the Tennessee Welcome Center located in the southeastern portion of the project. The project has a total length of interstate of 7.5 miles, as well as 14 new bridges, 20 new retaining walls and nearly 10 acres of wetland permitting impacts. Modifications include widening the interstate where the I-24/I-75 ramps were widened to three (3) lanes and the radii increased to allow for 50 miles per hour (mph) design speed. The project also modified the traffic circulation pattern of the existing Welcome Center by reconfiguring the entrance and exit to eliminate the weaving condition along northbound I-75. Our team was able to win the project by focusing on innovation during the proposal phase and creating a very aggressive schedule compared to the other bidders.
To date, the project has been completed and open to traffic. This presentation will go over the following items:
• Project overview
• Design decisions & coordination
• Accelerated construction schedule (20 Months)
• Original vs. Finished construction photos
Topic: Windy Hill Boulevard Smyrna, GA
Speakers: Chris Rideout, PE, Eric Brisse, PE, Aimee Turner, PE, PTOE Croy Engineering
Windy Hill Boulevard – Smyrna SPLOST
When it comes to roadways, sometimes the best solution is rethinking the design altogether. Incorporating multi-modal travel in a high-capacity roadway that includes local access to both residents and businesses can be a challenge, but that is what happened for the Windy Hill Boulevard project in Smyrna, Georgia. This project is currently under construction and accommodates local traffic, bicycle lanes, pedestrian trails, and express thru-lanes, which increases the mobility of east/west pass through travel. The project also includes two strategically placed bridges allowing local vehicular and pedestrian traffic the ability to traverse the express thru-lanes. These bridge with pedestrian friendly areas, reconnect residents once cut off from the rest of the City. Given the density of the corridor and high volume of daily travel, the project has taken a great deal of coordination with a variety of organizations. From a simple drawing on a napkin all the way to construction, join us as we dissect the Windy Hill Boulevard project and the creativity that went into making it happen.
Technical Session #4B – Infrastructure (continued)
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center
- 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30339 USA
Topic: Alternatives to Turbo Roundabouts
Speaker: Mark Lenters Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
Turbo roundabouts were first presented at a national level in 2008, at the TRB International Conference. At the that time, the U.S. and Canada were confirming successful multilane roundabout design practice mostly following British design research that established limits on geometric entry speed and entry path alignment using geometry and lane markings, in the case of multilane roundabouts. Before the community of practitioners begins to consider and apply elements of the European turbo design, it’s important to consider the context from which turbo roundabout appeared and how North American practice already had an answer to the safety concerns that precipitated turbo design features. This presentation describes the context to consider turbo features on two lane roundabout designs, but that the problems that turbo roundabouts aim to solve are mostly addressed with the current North American guidelines, if carefully applied. Nevertheless, there is a place for some of the principles of turbo roundabout design; mainly, the unifying of all entry speeds to a narrower range for the benefit of pedestrians, the improvement of lane discipline and the dearer definition of conflict areas in front of each entry of a multilane roundabout. Designs are being constructed and have recently been demonstrating that the use of ’buffered’ lanes on approaches to multilane roundabout entries and between circulating lanes is proving to be effective. In this highly visual presentation, both design styles, turbo and conventional design will be compared and contrasted to encourage agencies to consider alternatives to turbo roundabouts.
Topic: Perpetual Pavements: Designing a Road to Last
Speaker: Buzz Powell, PE, National Center for Asphalt Technology at Auburn University, Associate Director & Research Professor
Perpetual asphalt pavements properly designed and constructed last longer than 50 years without requiring major structural rehabilitation or reconstruction, and need only periodic surface renewal in response to distress confined to top of the pavement. Perpetual Pavements are beneficial as they can eliminate reconstruction costs, reduce user delay costs during operation, conserve material resources, reduce energy consumption during operation, and reduce life-cycle costs of the road network. With more than 156 Perpetual Pavements roads documented through the Asphalt Pavement Alliance’s Perpetual Pavement awards, and an average life of 46 years at time of award, this presentation will offer an overview of the advantages of implementing perpetual pavements, basic design concepts, and will also showcase several case studies.
Attendees will be able to:
1. Design criteria needed to achieve an asphalt pavement
2. Understand pavement concepts to compute maximum pavement thickness
3. Use modem computational design tools for perpetual pavements
4. See the latest award-winning perpetual pavement
Topic: Temporary Drainage
Speaker: Karl Brauer Kiewit Infrastructure Engineers
On both highway and riverine projects, the drainage design often focuses on the permanent condition. There is limited thought put into what is needed during construction. This “temporary” drainage condition can be in place for months to years on larger projects and often at a time with high levels public awareness and scrutiny. It is important for designers to consider the condition and design of the temporary drainage to ensure public and worker safety is maintained throughout construction and limits impacts to the public as much as possible. Clear definitions of the temporary drainage criteria and thoughtful considerations of the risks involved with this type of work are needed to level the playing field, manage overall project risks, and bring down project costs.
This presentation will start by looking at the hazards and costs associated with temporary drainage including the risks to public and worker safety, costs of temporary works, costs of delays, lost workdays, and work area damages and disruptions. It will then explore ways of estimating the risks for a project based on the timing and duration of the work, as well as how these estimates can be applied to projects. Next, it will discuss ways to mitigate hazards, limit the costs using different types of drainage structures, and the preparation of an Emergency Action Plan. Finally, the presentation will explore some examples of temporary drainage successes and future learning opportunities.
Technical Session #5A (Tour) – Windy Hill Boulevard Construction Site
Organizer
-
2023 ASHE - Technical Committee
Location
- Windy Hill Boulevard
- 1090 Windy Hill Rd SE #300, Smyrna, GA 30080
Note: Transportation to and from the Waverly Hotel will be provided.
Topic: Windy Hill Boulevard Smyrna, GA
Speakers: Chris Rideout, PE, Eric Brisse, PE, Aimee Turner, PE, PTOE Croy Engineering
Windy Hill Boulevard – Smyrna SPLOST
When it comes to roadways, sometimes the best solution is rethinking the design altogether. Incorporating multi-modal travel in a high-capacity roadway that includes local access to both residents and businesses can be a challenge, but that is what happened for the Windy Hill Boulevard project in Smyrna, Georgia. This project is currently under construction and accommodates local traffic, bicycle lanes, pedestrian trails, and express thru-lanes, which increases the mobility of east/west pass through travel. The project also includes two strategically placed bridges allowing local vehicular and pedestrian traffic the ability to traverse the express thru-lanes. These bridge with pedestrian friendly areas, reconnect residents once cut off from the rest of the City. Given the density of the corridor and high volume of daily travel, the project has taken a great deal of coordination with a variety of organizations. From a simple drawing on a napkin all the way to construction, join us as we dissect the Windy Hill Boulevard project and the creativity that went into making it happen.
- Lunch will be included at Iron Monger Brewing Company.