The Stream by AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) mandates federal agencies to evaluate the environmental impacts of their actions, crucially influencing transportation projects like road construction and bridge expansions. Our special guest, Ted Boling, a Partner at Perkins Coie with over 30 years of public service, will discuss NEPA’s role in promoting sustainable development within the transportation sector.

This episode marks the conclusion of a two-part series delving into effective management strategies during a solar eclipse. Specifically, we focus on emergency transportation management during and following the event. With contributions from Brandon Keller, Emergency Coordinator at Illinois DOT, we glean valuable insights into navigating the seamless transition from preparation to action. This discussion underscores the pivotal role of emergency transportation management in ensuring a smooth and effective response during and after a solar eclipse.

This is the first episode of a two-part series where we explore effective management during a solar eclipse. This episode highlights the significance of preparation, planning, training, and effective communication. Featuring insights from Michael White, Assistant Director at the Missouri Department of Transportation, we gain valuable perspectives on advancing safety protocols and bolstering resilience to ensure operational continuity during celestial events.

As the newly elected President of AASHTO, Craig Thompson is committed to fortifying the workforce to construct a modern and efficient transportation system that centers the needs of all citizens. Recognizing the profound impact of transportation on our daily lives, the economy, and society at large, President Thompson looks forward to collaborative efforts to propel the transportation system into the future.

In this podcast interview, President Thompson shares insights into his presidential emphasis areas. Listen to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of this year's AASHTO president and explore how his extensive experiences have shaped AASHTO's strategic focus for the 2024-2025 year.

This episode concludes our four-part series on equity, where we've focused on transportation professional's work towards building an equitable transportation system. This episode is brought to you from the AASHTO 2023 Annual Meeting where we spoke with guests and attendees from all over the country. Our guests today join us from the audience and the panel of the annual meeting knowledge session titled "Stop, Look, Listen: Engaging Communities to Put Equity into Action!" We speak to them today about their immediate thoughts and reactions on the knowledge session and get their perspective and opinion on what equity looks like in transportation.

This is the third episode of a four-part series that will focus on how transportation professionals may work toward building an equitable transportation system.

ReConnect Rondo, a leading organization in community reconnection, recently held the Reconnecting Communities Summit, attracting 150 communities nationwide. This episode showcases interviews with summit attendees who have either secured grants, applied for them or are engaged in initiatives aiming to create a brighter future for their residents through community reconnection efforts. Listen to today's episode to hear from Heather McLauglin-Kolb with the Salt Lake City Division of Transportation, and Cayce James with the City of Seattle. Additional speakers include JT Flowers representing the Albina Vision Trust, Gretchen Chavez with the California Department of Transportation, and Lauren Hood, co-chair of Detroit’s Reparations Task Force.