Secretary’s Remarks- Jim Trogden spoke of Mobility Funds, response to a Amtrak Train derailment in Mebane, expansion of mid-day train service between Raleigh and Charlotte, award of the contract for I-485 and the public event in Charlotte, more work to integrate NCTA into NCDOT (including plans to physically move them to NCDOT offices) and several other topics.
Legislative Update- Johanna Reese discussed the status of the Mobility Fund (same info which Julie White sent). All of NCDOT’s agency bills seem to be progressing nicely. Nina indicated she had heard some concern regarding a bill that would regulate bicycling on highways. She indicated the controversial part of the bill relates to a requirement that bicyclist move to single file “quickly” when a car approaches. It also does not allow bicyclist to ride more than 2 abreast. The bill number was not provided.
Transportation Intergovernmental Advisory Group- Jim Westmoreland provided an update regarding work which I think you are familiar with. Several subgroups have been formed to look at communication and education with local officials, future transportation funding strategy (reauthorization), reduce land use and transportation impacts (schools), census impact on MPO/RPO boundaries and coordination of TIGER II grants.
Art and Aesthetics on State Projects- Don Lee indicated a new policy was being developed. Art is typically free standing or on a structure. A DOT committee has been formed to develop the guidelines. There will likely be a submittal package required and a sponsor in local government or a local entity for any art structure. This will include a maintenance agreement. The draft guidelines will be published in June or July and distributed to an external advisory committee which will likely include local government officials.
Noise Barrier Aesthetics Update- Greg Smith provided an update. It appears that DOT is headed toward developing 3 or 4 types of wall finishes and 3 or 4 colors that can be selected during public involvement. They do plan to treat both sides of walls (which residents and business on the outside of the wall will appreciate) and plan to use more concrete columns/pillars and horizontal coping. Some on the board expressed concern over added cost compared to current practice. Greg assured them that the added cost was relatively small (about 5-10%). They had a good discussion regarding how noise walls affect the image of cities and the topic of gateways. Some on the board said if a city/town wanted something more than the standard wall, they would have to pay the cost. I did have a private discussion with Greg after the presentation and reinforced the need for flexibility particularly on gateway projects. I also suggested an advisory committee including local government be asked to review whatever is ultimately proposed. Another idea is to run the proposal thru the Complete Streets Committee. Greg seemed to appreciate my comments and I feel he will run whatever is proposed thru local folks at some time.
Ecosystem Enhancement Program- Bill Gilmore presented information regarding an interim budget. 84% of funds are geared toward restoration of wetlands..
I-95 Planning and Funding Report- Roberto Gonzales discussed the history and current status. The key aspect is work regarding potential tolling. They have found if tolling were implemented only at state borders, revenues would equal only 10% ($25m) of revenues that would be collected if the road were tolled thru-out the state ($250m). If tolls were implemented only at the borders, they could build about 1 mile of improvements per year. They are looking at tolling options that include all lanes and only new lanes. Another interesting aspect of the study is that they are working with FHWA to answer the question of how far from the toll road itself might money from tolls be spent to mitigate impacts of traffic that will divert from the interstate. The NCDOT continues to work with neighboring states, hold public input and expects to issue further results of their study later this year/early next year.
Work Program including STIP- Jim Trogden asked that this subject be delayed until next meeting. He said they had not been able to discuss loop schedules with affected areas.
Cash Model- Mark Foster presented info on a cash model which NCDOT utilizes to manage/optimize funds. Interestingly, NCDOT is the only state agency allowed to cash flow their business (SB 1005).
Data Integration Model- Victor Barbour provided information on an internal project begun in 2008 and finished in 2010 to integrate data previously contained in separate divisions. Although the info is used in many ways, one use is to allow managers (primarily) and employees to monitor their success in meeting performance targets. He showed a map of the state with counties shown in different colors indicating those above and below goals for crash rates. He also indicated how the same data may be obtained in graphical and tabular forms. You may wish to have your performance monitoring and IT folks call Victor to arrange a demonstration.
Low Impact Bridges- Lacy Love presented info on the NCDOT’s work to accelerate replacement/repair of bridges. They have done a lot of work with partner agencies to develop check lists for environmental screening, developed standard bridge plans and make sure scope creep does not occur to enable them to replace bridges in as little as 1 year. Bridge replacements that qualify are very simple and minimize damage to the environment (for instance, no detour bridge on site).
Next Meeting in Kinston- The board decided to have their next meeting in Kinston. They feel having the meeting in eastern NC will permit them to see important projects in that part of the state and talk to local officials. My impression is that most meetings will continue to be in Raleigh…and that they will occasionally travel east and west.
I hope this info is beneficial. If you have questions feel free to email me or call me at 704-351-5850.
Jim Humphrey