Arizona

• SR 179 Needs-Based Implementation Plan.  Located halfway between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, State Route 179 offers views of towering red buttes in a high desert landscape. In 2003, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) initiated an innovative approach to improving the roadway called a Needs-Based Implementation Plan. The 18-month process was a context sensitive solutions approach, consisting of a coordinated, collaborative team effort to assess needs and develop solutions for the nine-mile corridor. The process sought to balance safety, mobility, and the preservation of scenic, aesthetic, historic, environmental, and other community values. Throughout the process, ADOT solicited input and involvement from the community using a variety of methods, such as advisory panels, focus groups, workshops, a Web site, and charrettes. Citizens played an active role in the planning and will continue to be involved through design and construction of the corridor. Citizens participated in narrowing alternatives from more than 80 options down to a single preferred solution.  Contact: Jennifer Livingston, P.E. Senior Project Manager Arizona Department of Transportation jlivingston@azdot.gov.  Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition brochure.     

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California

• California's Context-Sensitive Solutions: Changing the Culture. For California's Department of Transportation (Caltrans), context sensitive solutions has become the agency’s way of doing business, incorporating smart growth concepts into the agency's mission. Beginning with leadership from top state transportation officials, Caltrans is "changing the culture" through a collection of policies, directives, guidance documents, funding mechanisms, and training programs, all representing an agency-wide commitment to context-sensitive solutions. All of these efforts are initiating a host of impressive transportation planning and design features seen in communities across the state. California's CSS initiative fosters early and continuous collaboration with stakeholders, balances transportation needs and community values, and promotes interconnected, multi-modal transportation systems. Some of the many tools Caltrans is using to "change the culture" include the following:
  • The state policy on context-sensitive solutions, which establishes CSS as an official agency policy and outlines roles and responsibilities of top Caltrans officials in its implementation;
  • The CSS Implementation Plan, which lists specific tasks and objectives and how they will be achieved;
  • Directives on Accommodating Non-Motorized Travel and on Project Purpose and Need;
  • Main Streets: Flexibility in Design and Operations, which provides guidelines that may be considered in developing "livable" communities within existing design standards;
  • A statewide transit-oriented development study;
  • Special funding for CSS activities; and
  • Numerous initiatives to promote public participation and community involvement.

Contact: Del Deletetsky, Associate Transportation Planner, California Department of Transportation, e-mail: del_deletetsky@dot.ca.gov. Winner of AASHTO’s 2004 Best Practices in Smart Growth Competition, Best Institutional Change. For more information, see the 2004 competition report.

• Highway 1 Median Barrier Project, California DOT. Safety considerations along a dangerous stretch of the scenic Highway I in San Luis Obispo County, California, were the catalyst for a unique and innovative context-sensitive solution implemented by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). To address a high-accident rate, the District Traffic Branch overseeing the five-mile corridor between San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay determined that a concrete median barrier was needed to reduce the potential for collisions. Caltrans reached out to the community to devise a solution that would address concerns about the visual and environmental impacts of the barrier. Caltrans implemented a newly patented method of texturing the barrier so that it would fit into its surroundings. Using a new technology of machine-rolling, the 32-inch-high concrete barrier was extruded in place and textured and colored to resemble a rock wall. The barrier was designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and rock outcroppings in the area. The solution also addressed environmental concerns, such as wildlife crossings. Semi-circular openings through the barrier were included at grade to allow small-size animal crossings. Where there was evidence of previous medium sized animal crossings, openings were installed to allow the animals to cross. This successful collaboration of eight community groups and organizations working with Caltrans’ project development team addressed aesthetic concerns with a context-sensitive solution that still incorporated all of the required safety features. Contact: Marta Bortner, California Department of Transportation, Public Information Officer, Marta_bortner@dot.ca.gov.  Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Colorado

• U.S. 285, Foxton Road to Bailey, Colorado DOT. In 2001, the Colorado DOT initiated a study on needed safety improvements to a 50-mile stretch of U.S. 285, a fast-growing area that is a bedroom community to the Denver metropolitan area and a corridor for recreational travelers headed to the mountains.  As part of the environmental review process that analyzed the various improvements, CDOT initiated agreements for streamlined and cooperative permitting and reviews with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the State Historic Preservation Office, setting the stage for a context sensitive solutions process that would help to address numerous potential impacts. The agency worked cooperatively to avoid and minimize impacts to wetlands and historic properties. It conducted value engineering that included members of the public and held numerous public meetings. The agency also reached out to natural resource agencies and environmental organizations throughout the environmental review process, including scooping, development of alternatives, and communicating recommendations for the preferred alternatives.  Contact: Jeff Kullman, Director, Region 1, Jeff.Kullman@dot.state.co.us.  Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

• Berthoud Pass Mountain Access Project, Colorado DOT. US 40 in North Central Colorado is a primary transportation route providing an east–west connection across the Continental Divide in the Arapaho National Forest. The highway provides the primary access to the Winter Park Resort and other prime recreation areas in northwestern Colorado. Faced with safety concerns on the narrow, two-lane section of roadway between Berthoud Falls and Berthoud Pass Summit, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) worked with other agencies and the public to find a context-sensitive solution. Working at elevations up to 10,500 feet, CDOT faced the challenge of widening the road and adding a guardrail to reduce the number and severity of accidents while addressing a range of environmental, aesthetic, and design challenges along the highway. CDOT worked with the U.S. Forest Service and an interdisciplinary team of specialists to address highway safety concerns and environmental impacts while also enhancing visual and recreational aspects of the roadway.  One of the key components of the project was construction of retaining walls. The walls were carefully designed to avoid forest impacts, stabilize slopes, improve aesthetics of the corridor, and reduce the risk of falling rocks. A terraced wall configuration with landscaped benches between the walls was chosen to reduce the overall visual effect of the walls. The project also incorporated elements to address water quality concerns, historic preservation, and wildlife habitat. The project substantially improved access while reducing environmental impacts and improving aesthetics, all while realizing some $30 million savings in construction costs.  Contact: Ina Zisman, Resident Engineer, Ina.zisman@dot.state.co.us.  Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Iowa

• The Bridge at Keosauqua, Iowa DOT. The City of Keosauqua, Iowa, was proud of its landmark truss bridge, which had spanned the Keosauqua River since 1939. When it came time to address the safety concerns related to the aging bridge structure, the Iowa Department of Transportation knew its best approach was to work with the citizens through a thoughtful, context sensitive approach to find the best solution for the community. With support from the community and a broad stakeholder group, and sign-off from the state historic preservation officer, Iowa DOT set out to design a bridge worthy of inheriting the scenic crossing that only two previous bridges had spanned. According to Iowa DOT, the final design is an elegantly arched steelgirder shape built on piers specially designed with a stone texture reminiscent of its predecessor.  Designers were able to incorporate virtually all of the values expressed by the community. The construction staging allows for uninterrupted traffic in both directions, pedestrians and bicyclists are accommodated on both sides of the new structure, and themed lighting provided by the city incorporates the same design as the local streetscape. Contact: Mitchell Dillavou, Director, Engineering Bureau, Mitchell.Dillavou@dot.iowa.gov. Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Illinois

• Illinois DOT’s Balanced Scorecard Approach to CSS.  Beginning in 2003, the Illinois Department of Transportation began to reach out to the public to develop a comprehensive policy on context sensitive solutions. The agency heard several themes from the public: transportation projects must be approached in a multi-modal scope; stakeholders need to be involved in transportation planning and program development decisions, and not just in the design decisions; and a public perception exists that the department’s design standards are too rigid.  In 2004, the state legislature echoed the call for CSS, enacting provisions that require the agency to “embrace principles of context sensitive design and context sensitive solutions” throughout its policies and procedures. Advancing its previous efforts on CSS and answering the call of the public and lawmakers, Illinois DOT in 2005 issued a document establishing CSS as its official policy. The agency also instituted a “Balanced Scorecard” approach for implementing the policy. The Balanced Scorecard is a strategic management tool which establishes long-range goals, related short-term objectives, strategic initiatives and performance measures to help direct and inform the agency’s staff about performance expectations and results. The agency’s CSS goals are to adequately meet the state’s transportation needs, ensure that transportation projects exist in harmony with their surroundings, and ensure that transportation projects add lasting value to the communities they serve. Contact: Susan Stitt, Planning Services Section Chief, Susan.stitt@illinois.gov. Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Kentucky

• U.S. 119 Over Pine Mountain. In the mountains of Kentucky, on a highway built in the 1920s atop old logging trails, lies a 7.7- mile stretch of U.S. 119 that had been known for the region’s natural beauty as well the roadway’s serious safety hazards. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet addressed the issue using a unique context sensitive approach. The Pine Mountain Task Force was established to gather input from a broad range of stakeholders, including residents, engineers, environmental groups, elected leaders, property owners, and teachers. The Task Force ultimately recommended construction of a tunnel as well as spot improvements to address the serious safety concerns on the existing road. The project successfully addressed the challenges of the existing mountain road, widening curves in eight spots by removing or shaving off rock outcroppings and adding truck lanes in some areas. The Transportation Cabinet used a non-traditional design approach to accommodate large tractor-trailers, with two 14- foot lanes with a center pavement used for truck paths and safety buffers. In some areas, the median striping width was offset on each side to accommodate the sweep path of these large vehicles. This non-geometric design allows larger, longer vehicles to pass each other safely. The design also accommodated Pine Mountain’s sensitive natural environment, which is home to more than 93 species of rare plants and animals. The Transportation Cabinet also stressed the benefit in using a design-build contractor for the project, with deadlines that were contractually imposed to minimize impacts on the community.  Contact: Sara George, Information Officer, Sara.george@ky.gov. Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Maryland

• Stormwater Management Visual and Environmental Quality and Safety Progam -  Maryland State Highway Administration. Maryland State Highway Administration is taking an innovative approach to implementing context-sensitive solutions across the state through integration of CSS principles into its stormwater management facilities. Through the Stormwater Management Visual and Environmental Quality and Safety Progam, the highway administration aims to combine principles of landscape architecture with hydraulics engineering to design stormwater facilities that fit within their communities and landscapes. As part of the process, Maryland SHA has developed and implemented a visual and environmental quality and safety review and comment process for all stormwater management designs. Maryland SHA is working to integrate maintenance needs into stormwater management design criteria and to develop environmentally responsible solutions to manage vegetation at stormwater facilities. The agency also is continuing work to retrofit existing stormwater facilities to incorporate CSS principles. Ongoing efforts include training workshops for design and maintenance personnel, an internal web page, and development of Visual and Environmental Quality and Safety guidelines. The guidelines will encourage practices that reduce impacts to communities, such as selecting the appropriate type of facilities for the context; eliminating standing water to reduce mosquitoes; conducting site visits to the potential stormwater management site to assess the surrounding character and visibility; careful vegetation management including native vegetation; and designing the facilities using “curvilinear” landforms rather than monotonous shapes that mirror the right-of-way.  Contact: Karen Coffman, Visual and Environmental Quality Program Manager, Maryland State Highway Administration, kcoffman@sha.state.md.us. Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Massachusetts

• Massachusetts Highway Department 2006 Project Development and Design Guide.  In 2003, the Executive Office of Transportation and Massachusetts Highway Department launched a three-year initiative to make sweeping changes to its project development and design process and incorporate context sensitive solutions into its day-to-day decision-making process. Spurred by Governor Mitt Romney’s new Communities First policy, the agency created an outside Task Force—largely made up of interest groups and organizations that had criticized the agency’s design decisions— to assist in the complete overhaul of the 1997 Massachusetts Highway Design Manual. The Design Guide, which formally replaces the agency’s 1997 design manual, is designed to make MassHighway projects more compatible with the state’s rich historic, environmental, community and cultural resources. The guidebook has significantly more flexible design standards, is strongly multi-modal, explicitly incorporates community setting as a design factor, dramatically re-shapes the project development process, and supports early planning and coordination with all stakeholders to create safe, attractive roads. By soliciting and responding to input from a broad range of stakeholders, MassHighway said it was able to forge a statewide consensus on a number of challenging issues, such as flexibility in lane and shoulder widths; accommodation of bicyclist and pedestrians; the classification of community settings; design treatments in historic areas; traffic calming versus traffic throughput; and transportation measures of effectiveness. MassHighway even followed a CSS approach in the review of its guide, providing an opportunity for public review of the document in communities around the state. MassHighway has trained hundreds of its employees in CSS principles and the components of the new Design Guide, and sponsored additional training for local officials and design consultants. Contact: Luisa Paiewonsky, Commissioner, Luisa.Paiewonsky@MHD.state.ma.us. Winner of AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Co-Winner, Best Program. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Michigan

• US-131 S-Curve Replacement Project – Michigan DOT. The US-131 S-curve is a series of six bridges that carry more than 100,000 vehicles a day through the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan. In 1998, the structure required urgent repairs after the collapse of the limestone formations beneath its piers. Using a context-sensitive solutions approach, the Michigan Department of Transportation engaged the community and worked with local agencies and the city to reconstruct the highway and address immediate public safety concerns. In addition to addressing traffic needs, challenges facing this major urban reconstruction project included impacts to commerce and tourism, neighborhood revitalization issues, historic preservation, and environmental concerns. Working with local stakeholders, MDOT developed a plan to totally reconstruct this elevated freeway segment. The plan included interchange reconfiguration as well as adding lanes and full shoulders to improve traffic operation, safety, and access to downtown. An effective public relations campaign allayed community concerns about impacts to commerce, and commuter, commercial, and tourist traffic. MDOT worked closely with the community to convey the urgency of the reconstruction effort without causing undue alarm. The agency reached an agreement with the community to construct the S-curve under a total closure, shortening the duration of the project and significantly reducing costs. Unique aspects included attention to aesthetics, incorporation of improvements adjacent to the structure, coordination with environmental agencies to avoid impacts to fish, recycling of original materials, compensation for impacts to an historic structure, and collaboration with tribes on an archeological dig. Contact: Cynthia Warzecha, Transportation Planner, Michigan DOT, warzechac@michigan.gov.  Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Minnesota

• Minnesota Trunk Highway 38 (TH 38) Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway Corridor.  The 47-mile Minnesota Trunk Highway 38 (TH 38) Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic Byway Corridor weaves around lakes and wetlands, allowing travelers to experience Minnesota’s northern woods. Faced with the need to reconstruct the aging highway, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) developed partnership alliances with Federal, state, and local stakeholders to guide the planning, scoping, and design process associated with the corridor. The resulting corridor reconstruction project exemplifies context-sensitive solutions, balancing safety, mobility, environmental, and community values. Mn/DOT focused on maintaining the two-lane roadway and existing alignment, and incorporating spot upgrades where safety improvements were needed. This significantly reduced the amount of vegetation that needed to be cleared. The project incorporated four-foot paved shoulders with a rumble strip and an additional two feet of reinforced soft shoulder to improve safety and accommodate bicyclists, while reducing the impacts of the roadway on the land. The public and interagency working groups strived to develop solutions, not only for the transportation system, but also for managing the land adjacent to the highway. The teams used many state-of-the-art outreach technologies, such as computer-visualization studies to help communicate alternative construction concepts to the public.  The effort resulted in a completely coordinated schedule of improvement projects for the whole corridor, including transportation, recreation, water quality, and economic development. The resulting improvements have contributed to significantly reduced accidents, enhanced mobility, greatly reduced cost, and context-sensitive outcomes—all well ahead of schedule. Contact: Karl Weissenborn, Senior Landscape Architect, Minnesota Department of Transportation, e-mail: karl.weissenborn@dot.state.mn. Winner of AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Project. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Montana

• Woodard Avenue – Absarokee Small-Town Makeover. When the small town of Absarokee, Montana, faced the prospect of needed safety improvements along its Woodard Avenue main street, citizens never imagined how much their town would improve as a result of the solution offered by their state transportation agency. In the true spirit of CSS, the Montana DOT reached out to citizens and found not only that the town’s transportation infrastructure was in need of repair, but also that the streets did not have efficient gutters or water drainage system. They also found the drinking water system to be inefficient. In fact, the town’s aging water infrastructure contributed to a 40 percent loss of community drinking water. To plan needed improvements in the absence of any city government, Montana DOT worked directly with the community members, the Absarokee Merchants Association, and the Stillwater County Commissioners Office. Montana DOT particularly encouraged the community’s input. Recognizing the serious need for water infrastructure improvements, Montana DOT found a way to incorporate these improvements into its roadway safety project. The agency replaced the town’s drinking water system as part of the transportation project, installed gutters along the roadway, and constructed a storm drain system underneath it—saving the rural community from shouldering the cost of these infra- structure improvements. The project also included a settlement pond to ensure proper drainage and relieve the flooding that plagued the north side of town. Montana DOT also added parking restrictions at the intersection and incorporated the town’s first traffic light to regulate traffic and prevent accidents. The project also included pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and numerous aesthetic features that have added a sense of style to Absarokee, emphasizing its best features and bringing out its small-town character. Contact: Charity Watt Levis, Public Information Officer, cwattlevis@mt.gov. Winner of AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Project-Small Urban or Rural. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Nevada

• I-580 Freeway Extension Project, Nevada DOT. The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has been planning since the 1970s to improve US 395 between Reno and Carson City to freeway standards. The undivided, four-lane highway is one of the worst safety hazards in the state, carrying 35,000 vehicles daily. The I-580 freeway extension is intended as a safe alternative route, serving through-traffic as well as nearby communities. Although portions of the controversial I-580 have been constructed, two decades had passed since approval of the Environmental Impact Statement. Using a comprehensive, context-sensitive approach, NDOT was able to advance a plan for the highway that addresses public concerns about impacts to the environment and the community, as well as funding constraints. NDOT used an extensive interdisciplinary team approach, bringing together technical experts as well as a stakeholder group representing 25 local, state, and federal agencies, communities, businesses, and environmental advocates. NDOT led the stakeholder group through a decision analysis process, which included defining the issues, developing evaluation criteria, measuring 26 alternatives against the criteria, and selecting a preferred alternative. As a result of the stakeholder recommendations, the team selected an undivided six lane facility that would minimize the footprint of the roadway. It also included major design features to improve aesthetics, safety, the environment, and community livability. Scheduled to open in late 2008, this impressive $300 million project includes eight and a half miles of six-lane wide expressway, seven major bridges, two interchanges, and three and a half million cubic meters of earthwork. The Galena Creek Bridge will be the longest, highest bridge in Nevada. Contact: Susan Martinovich, Director, Nevada DOT, smartinovich@dot.state.nv.us. Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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New York

• New York State DOT CSS Implementation Initiative. At the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), context sensitive solutions (CSS) represents more than a philosophy; CSS is a way of doing business. NYSDOT has committed to improve the process by which it delivers projects and services, including a comprehensive effort to incorporate context sensitive solutions into its business practices. Beginning in 1999, the agency assembled a multi-disciplined CSS team to advance the philosophy throughout the department. The CSS Team includes representatives from the agency’s design division and each of NYSDOT’s main office bureaus: landscape architecture, design quality assurance, consultant management, and design services. The team also has representatives from each of the DOT’s regions. The results can be seen in a range of policies and practices that are instilling CSS principles throughout the agency, ensuring that transportation solutions meet community needs and fit within their context. The agency’s CSS policy was set forth in 2001 in Engineering Instruction 01-020. The document sets forth the principles of CSS as they apply to projects in the state. The CSS philosophy is also advanced within NYSDOT through an annual CSS award to recognize exemplary projects and share best practices; a CSS web site with links to resources, best practices and agency contacts; numerous CSS training courses; and incorporation of CSS into the agency’s Project Development Manual, including a separate Public Involvement Manual. Context-sensitive solutions will continue as a part of NYSDOT’s business processes through ongoing incentives and performance measures that will track progress in meeting CSS goals. Contact: Patricia Millington, Senior Landscape Architect, New York State DOT, pmillington@dot.state.ny.us. Winner of AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Institutional or Organizational Change. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Ohio

• Ohio Eastern Corridor. Like many urban regions, the eastern Cincinnati metropolitan area lacked transportation choices, and major transportation improvements had not been made for more than 40 years. As a result, the region had experienced significant congestion, high crash rates, and higher vehicle emissions, compromising the livability and economic vitality of the region. In November 2005, a long-range transportation plan was adopted for the Eastern Corridor to integrate multi-modal solutions, land use planning, and environmental stewardship to address the growing needs of the 200-square-mile corridor. Through innovative and collaborative partnerships, 19 political jurisdictions agreed to pursue a balanced transportation plan that encompasses highway, bus, rail transit, bike, pedestrian and local network projects. These decisions were made using economic and transportation analyses that estimate the plan will increase transit use by five percent, reduce vehicle miles traveled by 50 million, and increase the gross regional product by $23 billion. An important element of the plan was the land-use vision planning process, which involved citizens, elected officials, and other stakeholders. To develop the vision plan, a core 60-member stakeholder group reviewed comprehensive information on local community plans, ecological features and natural resources, landscape, historical features, transportation, utilities and other infrastructure, demographics, housing, and employment. The Eastern Corridor Land Use Vision Plan established, for the first time, a mutually agreeable and workable plan to balance economic and community development issues with the need to preserve natural resources. The Land Use Vision Plan includes a commitment to a “green infrastructure” program that focuses on sensitive features, needs, and opportunities along the Little Miami River valley, which bisects the corridor. The corridor plan provides opportunities for safe and efficient travel through intermodal transfer stations, locating transit hubs in key density areas, using parallel corridors for multiple modes (such as highway, rail and bike path) and using existing corridors where possible. These investments also minimize the impact to existing natural resources and land use in the area. Contact: Diana Martin Planning Administrator, District 8, Diana.Martin@dot.state.oh.us. Winner of AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Project-Large Urban. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Oregon

• Oregon State DOT Bridge Delivery Program. Faced with the need to repair over 300 state highway bridges, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) developed an unprecedented bridge repair and replacement program, including a context-sensitive solutions approach to address transportation goals as well as community and quality-of-life goals for the citizens the state. Under the 2003 Oregon Transportation Investment Act (OTIA III), the state legislature provided $1.3 billion to repair or replace the aging highway bridges over the next eight to ten years. In order to complete the project in the timeframe mandated by the Legislature, ODOT developed the OTIA III State Bridge Delivery Program. The innovative program includes a collaborative permit streamlining effort, in which ODOT obtained a programmatic permit for the entire bridge program instead of individual permits for each bridge. The goal of the Bridge program is an improved state transportation infrastructure that reduces limitations on trade and economic progress while instilling a socially and environmentally responsible culture of sustainability. To achieve this goal, ODOT is using a Context Sensitive and Sustainable Solutions (CS³) decision-making framework, focusing on community values to shape a new generation of bridges. CS³ combines the existing CSS design philosophy with the concept of sustainability, an approach that is unique to ODOT. CS³ merges eight diverse disciplines under one umbrella: economic stimulus, diversity, cost effectiveness, mobility, public involvement, environmental justice, environmental program management, and sustainability. A “task lead” manager is responsible for integrating these diverse management systems with ODOT’s existing project delivery structure. The bridge program standards meet the requirements of 14 different state and Federal environmental laws. ODOT also has used the bridge program as the impetus to develop a statewide conservation and mitigation strategy. Bridge design selection will consider not only the transportation needs of the community, but also opportunities for wildlife habitat such as bat roosting spots underneath bridges. The streamlined permitting effort is expected to yield potential savings of approximately $50.2 million, 15 percent of the initial design costs, and may reduce the program’s overall schedule by as much as one or two years. Contact: Michael D. Wolfe, Oregon Department of Transportation, Michael.d.wolfe@odot.state.or.us. Winner of AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Program. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.  

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Texas

• Texas DOT Safety Rest Area Program. Transportation officials in Texas have launched a unique effort to ensure driver safety while promoting tourism and civic pride throughout the state. The Texas Department of Transportation’s (TxDOT) Safety Rest Area Program is creating the ultimate context sensitive solution for rest stops along the state’s highways. Going far beyond the traditional restrooms and parking facilities, TxDOT’s Safety Rest Areas boast amenities more like a park or museum. Each rest area is designed to fit into its region with attractive structures, regional themes, exhibits, and information, educating travelers as well as providing a sense of pride to communities. According to TxDOT, its new generation of safety rest area facilities was designed to blend with the natural beauty of the diverse Texas landscape. In addition to incorporating regional character, wherever possible the facilities themselves are located at scenic or historical sites. These key locations, along with informative exhibits, are a part of the state’s goal of encouraging travelers to take breaks during long road trips. At each facility, TxDOT worked to preserve community heritage and regional flavor through architectural aesthetics, protection of natural resources, and promotion of environmental sensitivities such as rainwater harvesting. Exhibits at each rest area provide safe travel tips and maps, and they interpret the history, culture, and the natural environment of the surrounding areas. As an added amenity, the facilities offer free wireless Internet access. Contact: Andrew Keith Manager, TXDOT Safety Rest Area Program AKEITH@dot.state.tx.us. Winner of AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Co-Winner, Best Program. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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Utah

• Institutionalization of CSS – Utah DOT. Since 1999, Utah DOT has been working to institutionalize context-sensitive solutions into its business practices. As one of the original context-sensitive design pilot states, Utah began with a “Futures Conference,” gathering input on how the agency should conduct its business. At this conference, the term “context-sensitive solutions” was coined, advancing the notion that transportation should go beyond the traditional context-sensitive design concept, and should extend from planning through context-sensitive maintenance solutions. The agency proceeded to begin implementing CSS, training leaders and supervisors in the principles. UDOT determined that public input is the cornerstone of a successful CSS philosophy. A “defining moment” in its process was hiring Public Involvement Coordinators to work with citizens on transportation improvements in their communities. Further institutionalization resulted from appointment of a CSS director in the agency. This position oversees training within the agency, working to incorporate the CSS philosophy into the agency’s strategic direction. UDOT has adopted an overall strategy to apply context-sensitive solutions with its community partners to achieve four strategic goals: “take care of what we have, make what we have work better, improve safety, and improve capacity.” Contact: Angelo Papastamos, CSS Director, Utah Department of Transportation, apapastamos@utah.gov. . Recognized as a Notable Practice in AASHTO’s 2005 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition. For more information, see the 2005 competition report.

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Washington State

• Washington State DOT, CSS Policies, Procedures, and Standards. In Washington State, officials have worked hard to reach their goal of ensuring that all agency projects and procedures balance transportation needs, community values, and environmental goals. WSDOT has coordinated efforts to develop context sensitive solutions at all levels, from executives to technical staff. The agency encourages its employees to look beyond basic transportation issues and develop projects that are integrated within their unique contexts. Balancing competing needs in design and construction of projects can be a difficult task. But numerous examples from communities throughout Washington demonstrate that it can be done. And CSS has provided the tools for success. Washington’s Transportation Commission, a seven-member transportation accountability board appointed by Washington’s governor, adopted a Livable Communities Policy. This 50-year vision statement first identified community-based design and collaborative decision making as essential to maintain and improve the livability of communities in this state. The Livable Communities Policy led to revision and development of a number of policies, procedures, and standards to integrate CSS. Contact: DavisK@wsdot.wa.gov. Winner of AASHTO’s 2006 Best Practices in Context Sensitive Solutions Competition, Best Organizational Integration. For more information, see the 2006 competition report.

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 AASHTO/FHWA Peer Exchange: Context Sensitive Solutions. Documents and presentations from the September 2006 peer exchange on context sensitive solutions have been posted on AASHTO’s Center for Environmental Excellence Website. The peer exchange, held in Baltimore, Md., on Sept. 6-8, 2006, was sponsored by the AASHTO Center for Environmental Excellence in conjunction with the AASHTO CSS Task Force and the Federal Highway Administration. Over 260 participants from 46 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Nova Scotia participated in peer exchanges, discussing the issues and challenges to implementation. During concurrent breakout sessions sixteen projects were presented to highlight the success of CSS. Participants had the opportunities to meet with other state representatives to initiate state action plans to further implement CSS within their state and agency. Project links are listed below:

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Urban Projects

• New York: Route 9A [PDF 7mb] Chris Cotter, Outreach Director, New York State DOT
• Michigan: US 131 S Curve Replacement [PDF 677kb] Mark Van Port Fleet, Engineer of Design, Michigan DOT
• Ohio: Eastern Corridor [PDF 3.41mb] Diana Martin, District 8 Planning Administrator, Ohio DOT
• Washington DC: Anacostia Waterfront Initiative. [PDF 5.51mb] John Deatrick, Chief Transportation Engineer,District DOT

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Small Urban Projects

• New Mexico: Isleta Boulevard [PDF 6.56mb] Tim Simmons, ASCG Consultant
• New York: US Route 62, Hamburg Village Project [PDF 6.31mb] Ken Kuminski, Project Manager, New York State DOT
• Arizona: Route 179 [PDF 1.67mb] Carl Burkhalter, Senior Resident Engineer, Arizona DOT; Jennifer Livingston, Senior Project Manager, DMJM Harris
• Arizona Stakeholder [PDF 1.66mb] Ernie Strauch, Private Citizen, Former Vice- Mayor, City of Sedona, AZ
• New Jersey: Route 71 [PDF 2.4mb] Gary Toth, Director, Project Planning and Development, New Jersey DOT

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Rural Projects

• California: Route 1, Coast Highway Management Plan [PDF 449kb] Gregg Albright, Deputy Director, Planning and Modal Programs, California DOT
• Virginia: Route 50 [PDF 11.0mb] Jim Klein, ASLA, Principal, Lardner/Klein Landscape Architects, P.C.
• Minnesota: TH38 Edge of the Wilderness [PDF 2.73mb] Scott Bradley, Landscape Architecture Chief, Minnesota DOT
• Colorado: Berthoud Pass [PDF 1.28mb] Michelle Li, Planning and Environmental Manager, Colorado DOT
• Colorado Stakeholder [PDF 894kb] Daniel Lovato, District Ranger, U.S. Forest Service

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Design-Build Projects

• Maryland: 30/Hampstead Bypass [PDF 704kb] John Zanetti, Transportation Engineering Manager and Assistant Innovative Contracting Program Manager, Maryland SHA
• Oregon: Clark Branch to Tunnel Mill Race Bridges [PDF 291kb] Jim Cox, Assistant Manager, Office of Project Delivery, Oregon DOT
• Utah: 12300/12600 South Design-Build Project-Widening [PDF 5.19mb] Kim Clark, Senior Associate, H.W. Lochner, Inc.; Kris Peterson, Environmental/Hydraulic Engineer, Utah DOT
• Kentucky: Pine Mountain [PDF 2.81mb] Danl Hall, Chief District Engineer, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

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This report documents the outstanding examples of the work done to integrate smart growth principles with the planning and delivery of transportation projects, programs, and services. The examples can be grouped around the themes of revitalization of communities and corridors on a project or regional level; and development of broad, statewide, smart growth strategies for integration of transportation and land use.  The examples include:

• Best Project—Maryland's West Hyattsville Transit-Oriented Development Strategy
• Best Program—Vermont's Interstate Interchange Policy and Planning Initiative
  • Notable practices
    • 28th Street South Design and Construction Project, Boulder—Colorado
    • Anacostia Waterfront Revitalization—District of Columbia
    • Hillsborough Street Partnership—North Carolina
    • High Street Cap—Ohio
• Best in Institutional Change—California's Context-Sensitive Solutions: Changing the Culture
  • Notable Practices: 
    • Statewide Transportation Visioning Process—Idaho
    • Integrated Transportation and Land Use Program—New Jersey
    • Action Plan on Transportation and Land Use for Economic Development—Pennsylvania

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FHWA Excellence in Highway Design
 This program began in 1996 and is conducted biennially by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to recognize outstanding initiatives and examples of innovative approaches to develop and design context sensitive highway solutions. See http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/eihd/index.htm for 1998, 2000, 2002, 2004 and 2006 winners. These awards recognize the following categories:

• Category 1-The Urban Highway 
• Category 2-The Rural Highway 
• Category 3A-Major Highway Structures (Over $15 Million) 
• Category 3B-Major Highway Structures (Under $15 Million) 
• Category 4-Environmental Protection and Enhancement 
• Category 5-Historic Preservation 
• Category 6-Highway Related Projects 
• Category 7-Intelligent Transportation Systems 
• Category 8-Intermodal Transportation Facilities 
• Category 9-Highway Improvements on Publicly Owned Land 
• Category 10-Project Development Process 
• Category 11-Project Management 

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Integration of Context Sensitive Solutions into the Transportation Planning Process (FHWA, Jan. 2007)
This report includes ten one-page fact sheets of transportation planning efforts, describing how they have incorporated CSS.  There are also three in-depth case studies, each six pages long, describing in great detail the planning context, CSS principles applied, and lessons learned.

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Collaborative Leadership: Success Stories in Transportation Mega Projects
"Lessons Learned" Approach to Collaborative Leadership in Mega Project Management.  This paper provides four examples of FHWA mega projects that reflect CSS applications through collaborative leadership.  There are four case studies included in this paper which include a project description and requirements, stakeholders, budget/funding, marketing and keys to success.  The projects featured include:

• Utah
• 2002 Olympic Winter Games Infrastructure, Utah
• Big I, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• I-65/70 of Hyperfix Project, Indiana

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FHWA Successes in Stewardship Monthly Newsletter
This is a monthly newsletter on a variety of topics, both general and site-specific, published since 2001.  Several issues have covered case studies of CSS implementation in projects across the country.  Each case study includes an extensive description of the setting, challenges addressed, results, contact information, and photos.  Examples include the following:

• The Stillwater Lift Bridge Project: From Impasse to Agreement Using Alternative Dispute Resolution 
• Routine Bridge Replacement Becomes Award-Winning Historic Preservation Project in South Carolina 
• South Carolina's Interstate 73 Interagency Partnership 
• Bridging Multiple Objectives: The Oregon Major Bridge Replacement Program 

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Transportation and Environmental Justice Case Studies (FHWA/FTA, January 2002)
Ten case studies are presented that reflect CSS applications for planning, project development, right-of-way, construction, operations and maintenance, and public involvement for projects in low-income and minority communities.   These case studies illustrate CSS concepts that can be applied to all communities. 

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Community Impact Mitigation Case Studies (FHWA-PD-98-024 (1998))
These five case studies are outstanding examples of how transportation projects were designed to be compatible with community interest, needs and values. In addition, the case studies profile unique partnerships that were formed as part of a CSS process.  Case studies are extensive, several pages, describing the project chronology, stakeholders involved and lessons learned. Projects featured include:

• I-40/85, East-West Expressway, Durham, NC
• I-696, Oak Park, MI
• I-96, Philadelphia, PA
• I-90, Seattle, WA
• I-165, Prichard, AL 

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FHWA Database on State and Environmental Streamlining and Stewardship Practices
This database contains 568 examples of streamlining and stewardship practices used by states to efficiently and effectively fulfill their NEPA obligations. This site is searchable by state, keyword and category (categories include Context Sensitive Solutions).  There are 47 specific entries for CSS but many of the other practices represent CSS applications. Database contains one-paragraph description and contact information, some records include links to related documents.

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State DOT CSS Case Study Links

• California.  
  • U.S . Hwy. 50 Operational Improvements Project in Placerville. Two-page summary.  Project purpose was traffic and pedestrian circulation, with CSS elements introduced as visual enhancements. 
  • The Donner Park Overcrossing.  One-page summary.  Bridge replacement with CSS elements introduced as visual enhancements, and in environmental protection (stormwater runoff and wetland avoidance). 
  • The Mono Lake Widening Project. This White Paper provides a guide to the context of the project at Mono Lake and methods for achieving sensitivity to that context in project planning.  The widening project is proposed for a 2.9 mile section of US 395 along the west shore of Mono Lake.
• Georgia.  Includes six case studies from Georgia, and 11 nationwide, chosen to be geographically diverse and illustrate a wide range of project contexts. Case studies are designated according to Context/Setting (urban, rural or suburban) and road classification.  Each case study includes brief paragraphs on the process, and lessons learned.
• Kentucky.  Extremely detailed case studies of 15 nationwide projects, each including description of project phases, purpose and need, context-sensitive factors, significant issues encountered (design, environmental, economic), project outcome and lessons learned.  Numerous photos for each case. http://128.163.152.205/casestudies.htm  
• Illinois.  Numerous examples of projects in Illinois incorporating CSS principles, organized by district.  Most include a short paragraph description and several photos.  Some include construction drawings and other resources.  (Scroll to the bottom and click on districts to see examples)
• Michigan.  Thirty-one case studies in Michigan, organized by region.  Twenty case studies nationwide, organized by type (e.g. rural arterial, rail, urban freeway).  Include a wide range of projects, including new construction, resurfacing, bridge replacement, interpretive sign installation, streetscape improvements, widening.  One-page summaries with photos, including context description, public engagement, CSS approach, outcome and funding.  Case Studies in Michigan, Case Studies Nationwide.
• Montana.  CSS US 93 Evaro to Polson, Montana.  These 27-page power point presentations provide a case study on the innovations proposed on US 93 in Montana. Report by Loran Frazier, P.E., Montana Dept. of Transportation, September 17, 2001
• New York.  Annual Excellence in Engineering CSS Award (2000-2003).  This award was given annually for four years.  Each of eleven districts in New York State submitted a project each year, with one selected as the “Exemplary Project.”  The winning and submitted projects each have a case study on the website, several pages long including project description, challenges overcome, and before/after photos. 39 case studies total.
•  North Carolina. 
  • I-26 in Madison County.  Report on the decision making process on I-26. The process was a learning experience that required a lot of teamwork for planning, design, construction and also cooperation with various agencies, and citizens. 
  • US 321 From SR 1500 (Blackberry Road) To Blowing Rock Northern City Limits. 
• Pennsylvania.  Fourty-one case studies in Pennsylvania, organized by type (e.g. bicycles, bridges, economic development, historic, streetscapes).  Most case studies currently on the site are bridge and bicycle/pedestrian related.  Searching brings up summary text and pictures for each project, plus a link to the full text pdf case study.  Summary includes project description, public and agency involvement, unique materials and techniques, and lessons learned.  Full text case studies include description of design exceptions and other more technical information.  (Select relevant categories, then “search” to bring up links to project summaries.)
• Texas.  Environmental Excellence Awards.  Under the Waste Reduction Policy Act of 1991, the Texas Council on Environmental Quality initiated the Texas Environmental Excellence Awards in 1993. Presented every spring, the awards are given in 10 diverse categories across the public and private sectors. Each 2007 winner is described on the website in several paragraphs, with an accompanying video.  Past winners are listed but not described.
• Washington.  Two featured CSS projects are described in one paragraph with a photo.  General project description and challenges overcome are discussed.

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Examples of Ongoing Project Websites
The following sites were created to communicate with the public as part of a CSS approach to an ongoing project.  They may include project status and other documents illustrating the CSS approach to the project, design alternatives, methods for electronic submittal of public comments, maps, photos, and notice of public meetings.  These sites are themselves examples of CSS best practices for public involvement and communication.  In addition, they provide descriptions of projects, challenges addressed, and lessons learned that could be helpful as case studies. 

• Florida ETDM (Search for a project on the left, then look under the Project Diary menu for project description, alternatives, community desired features, and project commitments)
• Kentucky Newtown Pike Extension Project. The South End Park Urban Village Plan provides a comprehensive look at the neighborhood slated for redevelopment and offers recommendations to accommodate the rebuilding of the DeRoode Street neighborhood.
• Maryland.  See specifically the Intercounty Connector Project 
• Maine 
• New Jersey 
• New York: I-87 Multimodal Corridor; 490 Gateway; Route 63 Corridor; Route 9A Project – Lower Manhattan Redevelopment.
• Oregon Newberg Dundee Transportation Improvement Project. The NDTIP includes strategies to develop a balanced transportation system that includes roadway, multimodal, and land use elements.
• Tennessee (See West, Middle and East Tennessee project links at the bottom)
• Utah DOT Projects

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• ContextSensitiveSolutions.org Case Studies.   There are a total of 152 case studies (59 published, 19 posted by public agencies giving brief project descriptions and 58 submitted by site users containing photos, graphics and short descriptions). These case studies are searchable by physical context, featured design element, road classification, etc.  There are 23 international case studies.  The majority of these case studies are related to bicycle and pedestrian projects.  Each case study provides different levels of information ranging from brief project descriptions to detailed project histories with challenges and lessons learned.  Case studies are also provided under the state profiles. 
• NCHRP Report 480: A Guide to Best Practices for Achieving Context Sensitive Solutions. This report includes nine case studies of CSS projects.  Each case study includes substantial description, including setting and problems to be solved, as well as photos, map and link to a longer version of the case study.  The case studies are:
  • Cobblestone Street Interpretive Park 
  • Kentucky Proposed I-66 
  • Maryland Route 108 
  • Maryland Route 355
  • Merritt Parkway Gateway Project 
  • Minnesota TH 61: North Shore Scenic Drive 
  • Towson Roundabout 
  • US Route 6 – Brooklyn, CT 
  • Washington SR 99 – International Blvd 
• Transportation Research Circular: Context Sensitive Design Around the Country, Some Examples (Transportation Research Board, Number E-C607, July 2004). This document contains examples of CSD projects from around the country. Each project is unique in the aspects that it addresses, but all have common themes that guarantee their success and acceptance by the public. These projects are designed to address the context of the roadway and to provide a transportation solution that satisfies the purpose and need of the project. The projects include:
  • Euclid Avenue: Lexington, Kentucky
  • Smith Creek Parkway: Wilmington, North Carolina
  • U.S. Route 3: Port Ontario, New York
  • Rhode Island Avenue: Mount Rainier, Maryland
  • U.S. Route 50: Loudoun–Fauquier Counties, Virginia
  • Bridgeport Way: University Place, Washington
  • Route 215: Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
  • Converting Highways into Streets and Avenues: Case Studies from Connecticut and Georgia
  • Mannsdale Road, Mississippi Route 463: Jackson, Mississippi
  • Bridge 9 on Smiths Bridge Road: Wilmington, Delaware
• American Council of Engineering Companies Engineering Excellence Awards.  The 2007 award winners for engineering projects are briefly described on this site.  Several of these awards feature transportation projects with unique engineering features that reflect CSS applications. 
• Emergency Response and Traditional Neighborhood Street Design (Local Government Commission).  These three case studies are focused on CSS related issues that address obstacles to building traditional-style neighborhoods with narrower streets.  The case studies describe how each of the three municipalities (Hercules, CA; Memphis, TN; Seattle, WA) addressed these challenges to meet the transportation need (emergency response) within the context of the desired development types.  Each case study includes three pages of description, photos, diagrams, and contact information.
• Environmental Stewardship Practices, Procedures and Policies for Highway Construction and Maintenance (NCHRP 25-25 (04)).  This extensive document details best practices in a variety of areas: organizational environmental stewardship, design for environmental stewardship in construction and maintenance, construction practices, maintenance facilities, bridge maintenance, winter operations, and roadside vegetation.  Throughout the document, but particularly in the section on organizational environmental stewardship, examples from various state DOTs are given to illustrate how best practices are being implemented in the context of that state.  State examples range from a paragraph to several pages with tables.  References and appendices provide additional detail on the state DOT practices.  While not formal case studies, this document could provide valuable information to state DOTs looking to incorporate CSS into construction and maintenance practices.

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