June 29, 2017
Innovation of the Month:
Data-Driven Safety Analysis
Transportation departments across the country are integrating data-driven safety analysis (DDSA) into their processes, policies, and projects to better target investments and enhance highway safety.
The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development is working to use DDSA more effectively in its network screening for Highway Safety Improvement Program projects. The agency developed a project selection guide that includes a feasibility form for safety projects.
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) updated its data analysis capabilities with a new safety information management system to support the agency’s strategic safety program. All MDT projects at the pavement preservation level and above receive a safety analysis.
Watch a video on how the Washington State Department of Transportation integrates DDSA into its project planning and processes.
View a webinar on DDSA.
Pennsylvania Pilots Traffic Control Initiative on Design-Build Project
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is piloting a traffic control initiative on an I-70 project it is constructing in Westmoreland County using the design-build project delivery method. Spearheaded by the Pennsylvania State Transportation Innovation Council (STIC), the initiative allows contractors and designers to work together on traffic control plans for design-build projects, which results in greater flexibility, efficiency, and schedule control than on projects delivered with the traditional design-bid-build method. The Pennsylvania STIC reviewed progress on the traffic control initiative at its May meeting and is seeking additional pilot projects. For information on the initiative, contact the STIC at ra-pdpenndotstic@pa.gov.
Utah Demonstrates Smarter Work Zone System
The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) shared its experience using smarter work zone technology with transportation agency peers from about 10 States at a June 22 event in Salt Lake City. UDOT is using a portable variable speed limit system to manage work zone traffic in real time on pavement resurfacing projects on I-80 near Wendover and I-15 near Tremonton. UDOT staff discussed the agency’s process in developing the system, technical aspects of system operation, and details on field deployment in combination with standard signing. At a site visit, participants observed the system at the I-80 work zone. For more information on the system, contact Josh Van Jura of UDOT.
Last Call for STIC Excellence Award Applications
July 1 is the deadline for nominations for the 2017 STIC Excellence Award. FHWA's Center for Accelerating Innovation (CAI) partners with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Innovation Initiative on the award, which recognizes STICs that have achieved significant results in fostering an innovative culture. For information, contact Sara Lowry of CAI.
