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TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Today, transportation agencies use public involvement programs to incorporate public input into more and more
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Transportation agencies (federal and state DOTs) conduct more cultural resource studies and expend more funds
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. There is growing frustration with the results of current state, regional, and local transportation and community
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. The research should be conducted in two phases. The first will identify innovative approaches for
Transportation agencies spend substantial funds to identify cultural resources that are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and thus subject to environmental regulations. Despite the fact that the
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Note recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. In the current state of the practice there are no tools and best practices available that
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Funded as “Finding the Carrot Instead of the Stick – Incentive-based Approaches for Environmental Compliance” (NCHRP 25-25: Task 50). Planning, construction, and operations of transportation projects
This research will identify promising analytical techniques that enable four-step planning models, used to produce region-wide estimates of vehicle activity data, to interface with modal emission rate models. The research
Many users of EPA’s MOBILE model are developing regional or local fleet characterization data to more accurately predict mobile source emissions. Vehicle identification number (VIN) decoder software is often used
Energy intensities (energy use per unit of activity) are basic information for forecasting, policy analysis, planning, and monitoring progress toward national energy and environmental goals. The most recent comprehensive study
TERI Administrator Note (May 2013). Completed in 2011 as NCHRP Report 686 Road Pricing: Public Perceptions and Program Development The proposed research would be conducted in several steps: 1. Identify
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – This idea has been addressed via Biofuels in the U.S. Transportation Sector; US Energy Information Administration, 2007 The contribution that biofuels can make to
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – Energy Information Administration, Alternatives to Traditional Transportation Fuels 2006 (Part II – User and Fuel Data); May 2008; Contains detailed data on the use
The ultimate fate of some treated transportation stormwater runoff from BMPs is groundwater. Groundwater is a precious resource. If groundwater quality has become degraded from transportation BMP stormwater runoff, the
Those conducting the proposed research will 1. Identify opportunities for a change in regulatory system approach at the national, state, and local levels. 2. Develop a set of model regulations/ordinances,
TERI Administrator Note (2007): Funded as NCHRP Project 25-31 Hydraulic Modifications to Existing Drainage Infrastructure in Ultra-Urban Areas to Achieve Watershed Total Maximum Daily Loads The transportation community is faced
TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Research Need Met FHWA, Assessing the Effects of Freight Movement on Air Quality at the National and Regional Level, Final Report, April 2007 http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/TD/FREIGHT/docs/publications/federal/FHWAFrtAirQualRep1.pdf Given
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Note recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. There is growing interest in using recycled materials, industrial byproduct materials and reclaimed soil in highway
Ideas for sustainable design generally pertain to manufacturing operations and office and residential building design. Although the basic principles of sustainable design are the same, the specific needs of transportation
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – Research Complete – Related research: The FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model (FHWA RCNM) Version 1.0 is a Windows-based program that is available without cost
Major and visible effects-such as shoreline alteration, reduced connection to adjacent upland, sediment filling-in, eutrophication, reduced oxygen levels, and altered fish populations-are attributable to roads altering coastal, lake, reservoir, pond,
Algal blooms and excessive plant growth commonly plague lacustrine systems due to the buildup of phosphorus. While phosphorus is not a principal component in highway runoff, there may be areas
In order to make the best choices regarding the planning and development of highway capacity, transportation decision-makers need a wide range of data. To conduct impact assessment, for example, agencies
A new decision making process is needed to underpin the system planning and project development process, one that is equipped to consider multi-modal and operations solutions that minimize adverse environmental
TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Funded as NCHRP Project 25-25, Task 39, “Improving Project Environmental Cost Estimates.” Project completion date: October 2008. http://www.trb.org/TRBNet/ProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=1657 Improvement of cost estimating practices and the
Because hydrologic conditions around corridors are the result of transportation-system design processes, the major patterns of road hydrology are well documented. It is generally clear, for example, how highway hydrology
This research project will build on research grounded in environmental science to identify and evaluate approaches for improving water quality and watershed performance and to reduce habitat fragmentation and its
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) Pending project: NCHRP 8-36 (86) Corridor Approaches to Integrating Land Transportation and Land Use Several states and metropolitan regions have implemented programs that combine land
The environmental and community consequences of changes in freight movement patterns in the US may be significant, but are currently unknown. Strategies are needed in response to emerging freight movement
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Air Quality Subcommittee. The secondary effects of highway capacity expansion on development and land use patterns are often used
TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Funded as NCHRP Project 25-25, Task 37. Completion date 10/31/08. http://www.trb.org/TRBNet/ProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=1655 The research will focus on reviewing transportation agencies for strategies and tools that assist
This research would have two elements: (a) dissemination of existing information technology and (b) foundational work to develop customized information technology tools for specific environmental stewardship and streamlining applications. Information
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Funded as NCHRP Project 25-25, Task 38, “Guide to Use of Tier I Environmental Impact Statements for Transportation Projects.” Completion date October 2008. http://www.trb.org/TRBNet/ProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=1656 The
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Related Research SHRP2 Project C01: Improving collaborative decision making and the process for selecting solutions to capacity problems. Projected completion date 2/27/09. http://www.trb.org/TRBNet/ProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=2161 Most transportation/environmental
Project development depends on good communication among the public, planners, and project development teams. Technical design drawings and maps have limited value when a project requries communication with non-engineers and
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Transportation investments produce different benefits for different members of the public. Decision makers often need
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Phase 1 Share successful efforts by public agencies to inform the public of the results
Development resulting from transportation investment has significant impacts on cultural and historic resources. In addition, indirect and cumulative effects on cultural resources are not well defined or understood and are
Develop decision-making guidance on preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of historic bridges.
TERI Database Administrator Notes. Not recommended at present time by 2009 Natural Systems Subcommittee. This project will facilitate state DOT peer exchanges using the current volume of The Compendium
This project focuses on identifying and developing approaches to more meaningfully involve the public in transportation decision making and to maintain this connection through the development and construction phases. It
A succinct definition of context needs to be developed within the community in terms of its aesthetic character, visual quality, cultural diversity, and how these elements translate into the existing
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Research is needed to identify and document how current investment policies affect different groups and
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Project has been funded as NCHRP 25-25: Task 62 for 2009, “Improving the Effectiveness of Outreach to Traditional and Non-Traditional Groups by Integrating the Expertise
TERI Administrator Note – NCHRP 08-72 [Pending] Practical Approaches for Involving Traditionally Under-served Populations in Transportation Decision Making Showcase the success stories, best practices, and model community initiatives, which incorporate
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Funded as NCHRP Project 25-25, Task 43, “Guidance on legal sufficiency criteria for adequate cumulative and secondary impacts analysis in EIS documents.” Report submitted September
Document the current regulatory and policy environment on this topic and its implications for state DOTs. Review states’ experiences in mitigating for cumulative impacts. Identify best practices and lessons learned.
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009): Related Research: Highway Construction Noise Handbook (Volpe Center, 2006) Develop a comprehensive, multi-modal transportation noise prediction methodology, in cooperation with other transportation modes.
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. Develop and distribute a brochure or otehr publication that describes improved, more cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing
TERI Administrator Note: Based on a February 2008 review by Center staff, the write up for this idea needs additional review, clarification, or rewriting. Throughout the country, many departments and
Develop improvements to the FHWA TNM and traffic noise-analysis techniques to address the following: 1) Effects of Irregular Terrain – Highway sites may include terrain with undulations of varying size,
Identify an assessment method to determine regional cumulative impacts. Identify what are cumulative impacts in both spatial (region) and timeframe (horizon- year) terms. Develop sample matrix or other tools to
Identify and describe effective approaches for outreach to non-traditional groups. TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Project has been funded as NCHRP 25-25: Task 62 for 2009, “Improving the Effectiveness of
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Funded as NCHRP 25-25 48 “Compendium of Environmental Fieldwork Technologies” Maintain an ongoing compendium of environmental fieldwork technologies TERI Administrator Note (January 2009) Project funded under
Develop case studies of successful approaches for combining NEPA and MPO planning. TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – Related research: Highways and Environment: Transportation Agencies Are Acting to Involve Others
Assessment of DOTs’ environmental commitment tracking systems TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Research Completed AASHTO Practitioner Guide: Tracking Compliance with Environmental Commitments/Use of Environmental Monitors (2006) https://environment.transportation.org/center/products_programs/practitioners_handbooks.aspx#tracking This handbook provides
Identify and analyze methods for retrofitting highways with measures to reduce impacts to wildlife. TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Research Completed (See Below) NCHRP – Evaluation of the Use and
Develop native plant restoration techniques specific to roadside use, especially following weed control projects and other rehabilitation efforts.
Roadsides in the United States cover an area equal to 100,000 football fields for every state (TRB 1997) and are often refuges for rare native plants. These areas represent an
Although crashing into a large animal with a motorized vehicle may involve damage, human injury, or death (Conover et al. 1995; Romin and Bissonette 1996), roadkills overall appear to be
Habitat loss and fragmentation are the two leading causes of wildlife loss and extirpation. Degraded watersheds and fragmented wildlife habitats have a lower capability to sustain wildlife populations and important
Research should evaluate existing wildlife crossing systems to determine their effectiveness. Various system types should be compared with respect to wildlife. In evaluating system effectiveness, consideration needs to be given
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Natural Systems Subcommittee. Subcommittee recommended funding ID#86, which addresses similar issues. The proposed research will use existing data (e.g., aerial
The goal of the proposed research is to develop an Ecologically Sensitive Right of Way Management Guidance Manual that provides for protection and enhancement of ecological resources and reduces maintenance
In a selection of states, and across a gradient of ecological and transportation factors, this experimental research would test for correlations among areas of known deer abundance and established rates
TERI Administrator Note (Jan 2009) – Completed. See http://www.contextsensitivesolutions.org/content/case_studies/ Develop and disseminate case studies that demonstrate how transportation projects have been planned, designed, and constructed to: be neighborhood friendly; avoid,
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – Relevant Research: Financing Transportation Through the Capture of Land Value Gains: Practical Integration and Stakeholder Involvement, Center for Transportation Studies, University of Minnesota (Scheduled
TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – International Association of Ports and Harbors – TOOL BOX FOR PORT CLEAN AIR PROGRAMS; HOW TO CONDUCT AN EMISSIONS INVENTORY, December 2007 http://www.iaphworldports.org Research
Since the passage of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) in 2005, the Federal Highway Administration has continued to encourage a more integrated
This research would identify best practices for early identification of environmental mitigation requirements and the cost of implementing such mitigation. TERI Administrator Note (Feb 2009) – Research Completed under NCHRP
Problem Statement: Many DOTs are being required to conduct surveys for bat as a part of ecological impact studies or biological assessments for endangered species. Positive identification of some endangered
TERI Administrator Note (March 2008) Research Completed: HIGHWAY MEDIAN IMPACTS ON WILDLIFE MOVEMENT AND MORTALITY – State of the Practice Survey and Gap Analysis, CalTrans, 2006 http://www.dot.ca.gov/newtech/researchreports/reports/2006/median_barrier_final_report.pdf Problem Statement: Along
Problem Statement: In transportation programs, there is a need to address situations that may affect salmon and their habitats under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Culverts can block upstream passage
Problem: Animal vehicle collisions are a challenge from the safety and ecological standpoint. Many current solutions are expensive (large crossing structures), potentially ineffective (static warning signs), or potentially ecologically damaging
Problem Statement: Over the last decade natural resource agencies and transportation agencies have become increasingly aware of the effects that highway and railroad systems have on wildlife and fisheries. The
Problem Statement: To maintain the highway infrastructure, right-of-way and their functions, many operations including snow and ice control, paving/patching, surface sealing, traffic marking and vegetation management may use chemical
Highway safety often focuses on stationary barriers. Environmental quality can be enhanced through ‘green’ guardrails and use of natural grasses and wildflowers in place of mowing.
Problem Statement: Currently there is no basic methodology to predict soil loss or recommend erosion and sediment control measures specifically for highway projects. Lack of a methodology impairs the ability
Problem Statement: When a gravel or native-surfaced road is paved, we do not know the effects of increased offsite soil erosion due to increase surface runoff. Proposed Research: It
TERI Database Administrator Notes. Not recommended at present time by 2009 Natural Systems Subcommittee. Problem Statement: State DOTs are increasingly involved in making decisions regarding the reuse of wastes and
Organizational Requirements (Structures, Relationships, Staffing) to Better Reflect CSS Needs
The design of local roads, including issues of width and the question of planting trees in medians, is often made based on a widely held, but not always proven, belief
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources.
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Posted by TERI Administrator 6/12/07: Comment: The concept of examining the integration of Value Engineering
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Research is Underway Context Sensitive Solutions: Quantification of the Benefits in Transportation (NCHRP 15-32) http://www.trb.org/TRBNet/ProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=412 Project is due to be completed 5/31/09. As more organizations
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources.
TERI Administrator Note (June 2007): Related Research Performance Measures for Context Sensitive Solutions – A Guidebook for State DOTs, Web Document 69 http://onlinepubs.trb.org/onlinepubs/nchrp/nchrp_w69.pdf
Since the mid 1990s, the concept of watershed evaluation and assessment has come to the forefront of land use planning and related decision making. Faced by these issues, the DOTs
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. Funded as NCHRP 25-25 54 “Evaluate Colorado’s Area-wide Cumulative Effects Assessment (ACEA) Methodology as a Mechanism
2. Review "smart growth" literature and intitiatives in ten (10) case studies across America. 4. Predict and discuss what could happen to places that have little state of planning and
The study would evaluate the effectiveness of current practices in road design, construction, maintenance and closure.
Recent study findings where tire shreds were used for lightweight fill in road base construction in a wetland suggest that wrapping the tire shreds with a geotextile fabric could trap
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Air Quality Subcommittee. Background: Highway and rail projects inevitably affect property values. Increased accessibility will increase the number of
Problem Statement: Naturally occurring wetlands are characterized by a broad diversity of species. When replacement wetlands need to be created to offset transportation project impacts they often fail to achieve
Roadway access management has been shown to be highly effective in terms of improving both traffic safety and traffic flow. Crash rate reductions of between 40 and 50 percent are
TERI Administrator Note (Added April 2008) – Related Research: NCHRP 25-25/Task 21: Assessment of Geophysical Remote Sensing Opportunities at State Departments of Transportation for Incorporation into Archaeological Investigations (Completed 2006)
Problem Statement A potentially major barrier to sharing data in environmental and related management systems is intellectual property rights, including copyrights, licensing, and terms of use. Although state Departments of
Problem Statement The current practice for mitigating environmental impacts of transportation projects is to mitigate only specific impacts on specific resources without consideration of which produces the best environmental result.
Right-of-way vegetation management is a major responsibility of the State DOTs. Traditionally, roadside vegetation was managed for a variety of purposes important to the public, such as safety, roadway integrity,
TERI Administrator Note (January 2009): Idea selected for implementation with NHCRP 25-25 (Task 56) funding in 2009. The cost of complying with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) continues
Purpose of research is to determine the potential effect to buried archaeological deposits from the construction and subsequent operation of transportation facilities. Because the typical method of archaeological mitigation (data
By law, Departments of Transportation are required to control noxious weeds along highway rights-of-way (ROWs). Beginning 2000, District 4 (D4) of Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) adopted a survey design
The management of invasive species is ineffective when the means of dissemination are unknown. Construction vehicles are likely vectors for the spread of invasive plant species. The use of construction
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Natural Systems Subcommittee. The copperbelly water snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta), which is federally listed as threatened, occurs in the
Organisms pick up some heavy metals in proportion to their exposure in aquatic systems, they then deposit these elements along with calcium into their calcareous shells or skeleton. Many of
Traditionally, state and local governments install the smallest structure necessary to pass a certain measurable flow as required by local, state and federal rules. Structures that are sized to bankfull-width
Train-wildlife collisions are devastating to wildlife populations, and disproportionately so, to species such as moose, grizzly bear, wolverine, and wide-ranging carnivores in general, which have low reproductive rates. Habitat fragmentation
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Air Quality Subcommittee. With so many new areas likely to be designated nonattainment under EPA’s revised 8-hour ozone standard,
Investigate the potential benefits of converting traditional cross intersections to modern roundbouts.
About half of all trips taken in the US are 3 miles or less. Walking and bicycling could be an adequate alternative to driving for many of these trips. The
Brief background of issue and its importance: Development projects, conflicts, and disasters can cause displacements of persons or communities. It is anticipated that with global climate change the number of
Problem: An emerging public policy issue that will likely have significant and potentially far-reaching impacts is the growing interest in and use of renewable and bio-fuels. The goal of reducing U.S.
The size of DNL 65 dB noise contours around the nation’s airports has diminished steadily for the past three decades; and now most noise complaints come from persons residing outside
We propose an on-road study of vehicular non-carbon dioxide (CO2) greenhouse gas emissions.
The design and installation of road stream crossings to accommodate fish and aquatic live passage is becoming a priority for state and federal regulatory agencies. State and municipal project designers
States are increasingly facing the spectre of funding transportation projects with little or no federal transportation capital. NEPA compliance is required when federal funds are utilized, or when a permit,
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. Over the past 35-40 years, Travel Demand Management (TDM) strategies have been implemented to address a
Background: Many people have speculated on the impact of transportation on visitor experience on public lands, but rigorous research has not yet addressed the question. Ridership surveys at individual national
Problem Statement – Transportation investments produce different benefits for different members of the public. Decision makers often need to know how these benefits may be distributed, especially on traditionally underserved
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Note recommended at present time by 2009 Environmental Process Subcommittee. Problem Statement Several high-speed rail projects in the U.S. were proposed, analyzed, assessed, but were not built,
This research would focus on defining sustainable transport including understanding how to evaluate transportation options across all issues of sustainability including economic, environmental and equity. A synthesis of current practice
The goal of this study is to make a solid case for public support for fuel cell vehicles and the needed fueling infrastructure. The objective is to develop a collective
Use the NC Conservation Planning Tool to identify and prioritize potential impacts of road construction projects on fragmentation of wildlife habitats and ecological systems. Use this system to target priorities
Idaho’s topography requires that its roads and highways system cross a large number of waters. Each of these crossings represents not only a design challenge in terms of road and
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Air Quality Subcommittee. While much effort is being expended on the impacts of climate change on critical state and
Environmental conflicts encountered in transportation related projects are too often discovered well into the planning process when funds are identified and committed and preliminary engineering work is underway. At this
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Subcommittee on Cultural Resources. Conduct research to determine the subsurface disturbance resulting from the placement of fill (temporary and
In evaluating bridges, road corridors and buildings for National Register significance, a frequent problem arises regarding the concept of local significance. In the early days of the historic preservation movement,
What are the sustainability indicators for systems architecture, to measure ecology, economy, efficiency, equity? What are the baselines and how can we improve performance measures?
TERI Administrator Note: Selected as NCHRP 25-25 (70) Screening level procedures for quantitative mobile source air toxics (MSATs) analyses for transportation projects are needed to provide state and other transportation agencies
TERI Database Administrator Notes: Not recommended at present time by 2009 Air Quality Subcommittee. This goal of the research would be to uncover potential benefits of addressing climate change (green-house
Run cars and trucks containing crash dummies off simulated highways into tall native herbaceous vegetation within the clear zone, masses of native shrubs within the clear zone and into low
How are (or will) strategies for climate change take into account cultural considerations, especially with respect to environmental justice populations and historic values/historic preservation, on transportation projects?
How can models and methodologies be improved with respect to sensitivity to mitigation strategies such as land use and pricing; greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; how to quantify GHGs/carbon, and approaches
How can we facilitate wildlife movement vis-a-vis transportation networks and transportation planning in the face of climate change?
How will we address uncertainty related to climate change impacts (esp cumulative impacts) in environmental impact analysis, planning, policy, etc.?
How can energy and environmental modeling be linked to support decisionmaking aimed at energy efficiency for different scales, state plans, MPO plans, and project alternative analysis?
What strategies including incentives and reducing VMT could be explored to build local economies (goods/services) to reduce VMT, increase livability measures and minimize energy use?
What messages on climate change and energy are most effective with what audiences: decision-makers, transportation practitioners, system users? How can we communicate effects, provide options/incentives, policies (i.e., pricing)?
How can we address livability in NEPA and other cross-cutting legislation?
How can we integrate and strengthen the relationship between land use and transportation planning?
How do we define livability and what are the best metrics for measuring it? Are there different implications for land use and transportation planning at the local level and what
Do we need to change old assumptions in our travel forecast models to account for rising gas prices (VMTs), economic variability, generational perspectives, and personal behaviors?
How can transportation sustainability be balanced with affordability?
Cost of this vs. ditch and basin treatments, maintenance.
Select several of these small bridges that are being let and re-design, install and monitor the discharge from the standard skimmer basin (x2) vs. a solid dam with a weir
More than 25 amphibians and reptiles are listed as threatened or endangered in California. Highways pose movement barriers for many these species. As California’s human population increases and climate changes
Development of a biofuels industry to meet the Federal mandates for 36 billion gallons of biofuels by the year 2022 will translate into greater harvest of biomass for energy purposes
Analyze the accuracy of traffic forecasting over time, data that was used in environmental analysis/studies. For example, a 1980 traffic study for a particular project looked at the traffic numbers
What would be the more effective landscape-scale water quality solution given limited financial resources; a relatively small aerial coverage with high efficiency BMPs (e.g. large ponds and sand filters) or
The compost blanket is a low impact development (LID) approach to flow control. Compost blankets could be used for stormwater hydraulic detention Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce the size requirements
For small projects (paving projects), or even highway.
This would build on the existing work at SECREF and expand to include the full array of turbidity control systems (passive, infiltration, active). New systems, which are being developed and
Sensitivity models that will allow for cost effective scoping and identification efforts that also reduce the potential for costly late discovery of archaeological sites To date sensitivity modeling for buried
RESEARCH PROBLEM STATEMENT Paying a contractor based on the quality of pavement construction is not new. In fact, nearly all specifications accomplish this, be it through means & methods, end-result,
TERI Administrator Note (May 2011): Similar research under SHRP C09 project has addressed this issue. (http://144.171.11.40/cmsfeed/TRBNetProjectDisplay.asp?ProjectID=2348) Problem Numerous organizations at the federal, state, and local level have a stake in
Problem The transportation sector is vital to the economy of the United States. It provides the critical links between industries and to their customers and it is the network for
Recent studies are showing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) is one of the greatest problems faced today. To reduce GHG is extremely complex and difficult since its production is so broad and intrinsic.
Problem There would be value in discerning a realistic auto operating context/profile to use in comparison with transit travel. We tend to compare mean characteristics of the modes when it
Problem Hydrogen has been proposed as a feasible alternative fuel for vehicles. However, the ramifications of such an approach to transportation have not been fully assessed. These include: the emissions due to
Problem Statement Energy intensity values (energy use per unit of activity) are basic data for forecasting, policy analysis, planning, and monitoring progress toward energy and environmental goals. They are essential
Problem Statement The life cycle analysis (LCA) of transportation fuels is a critical step when comparing the energy and environmental attributes of conventional and alternative fuels. LCA accounts for the
Problem Statement Regulatory and market pressures are mounting that would encourage a transition of the ground transportation system toward advanced fuels and vehicles. In the US, EPA and NHTSA have
Problem Transportation Research Board’s Special Report 298: Driving and the Built Environment: The Effects of Compact Development on Motorized Travel, Energy Use, and CO2 Emissions recommended specific research on the effects
Problem Currently, transportation goods and services are marketed, promoted, and sold with very little information related to their carbon footprint or other possible impacts to the climate. For example, the
Per the Moving Cooler report, “eco-driving strategies can achieve cumulative greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions by changing the efficiency of individual driving behavior, if widely embraced and practiced.” The Moving Cooler
Induced demand – also referred to as latent demand or the “rebound effect” – is the phenomenon that after supply increases, more of a good is consumed. In economic terms,
Problem Induced demand – also referred to as latent demand – is the phenomenon that after supply increases, more of a good is consumed. In economic terms, the demand for
TERI Administrator Note (May 2011): FHWA has a project underway that is addressing these issues. (John Davies is FHWA contract point.) Problem One of the approaches for reducing transportation-related greenhouse
Problem It is anticipated that future changes in climate will bring with it rising temperatures, increased precipitation events, permafrost, increasing sea levels, etc. Transportation infrastructure is likely to be affected adversely
Problem States and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) are developing and evaluating transportation plans and programs on an ongoing basis. There is increasing awareness that future climate conditions may affect the resilience
Problem States and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) are developing and evaluating transportation plans and programs on an ongoing basis. At the same time, many of them are also developing climate action
Problem Current surface transportation systems depend on century-old internal-combustion technology that produces millions of tons of GHG’s and other emissions annually. Highway vehicles produce emissions while idling in traffic and in
Problem Statement A low carbon fuel standard (LCFS) sets a target to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity of transportation fuels. Fuel providers must reduce the GHG intensity of their
Problem Statement An ever-growing interest in the promise of high efficiency/low greenhouse gas-emittingvehicles has led to a variety of efforts to accelerate their commercial introduction. All the major original equipment
Problem Statement Advanced (2nd and 3rd generation) biofuels include a range of renewable liquid or gaseous fuels produced from non-food sources such as woody grasses, agricultural residues and organic waste.
Problem Statement Policy interest in low carbon fuel standards (LCFS) as a means of reducing GHG emissions is growing rapidly. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed an executive order on January
Problem In some locations, particularly the U.S. Gulf, transportation infrastructure will remain at risk due to persistent weaknesses in natural systems, such as sea-level rise coupled with shoreline subsidence and
Problem Different agencies will continue to develop policies related to climate change and to transportation infrastructure protection. While these two topics, and thus their related policies, often affect each other, policies
Problem Among both the public and many elected leaders there is an insufficient understanding of climate change as well as a lack of understanding of the relationship between climate change
Problem The regulation of greenhouse gases is in its infancy in the United States, with piecemeal programs promulgated by the states and nascent regulations proposed and finalized by the United
Problem Current climate change legislation before the US Congress includes provisions for a cap and trade program, where the government guarantees emissions reductions by setting a mandatory cap on aggregate
Problem How would pursuing transportation sector specific policies in conjunction with a cap and trade system change the price of allowances, alter the share of emissions reductions from transportation, and
Need for the Research Stormwater runoff from transportation Rights-of-Way (ROW) may contain nutrients (particularly phosphorus and nitrogen) and may contain pathogens (though it is unclear if DOTs are a source that would
This project would look at the use of permeable pavements along shoulders. It would primarily look at the suitability of such pavements from a design, constructability, maintenance, and longevity standpoint. However, it would
New construction and replaced impervious surfaces will trigger the new LID standard in the future. In implementing the new LID standard, DOTs need a factual basis to assess the feasibility of applying
Need for the Research Highways can contribute to hydrologic changes with subsequent degradation of streams. Permits and regulations are beginning to require management of stormwater to minimize adverse hydromodification. Traditional methods of stormwater
Need for the Research Highways can contribute to hydrologic changes with subsequent degradation of streams. Permits and regulations are beginning to require management of stormwater to minimize adverse hydromodification, but there are no
TERI Administrator Note: Selected as FY12 NCHRP Project 25-40; estimated completion is April 2014 Background As the surface transportation systems of the nation expand and transportation agencies continue to meet the
Given that many states are moving forward with climate adaption plans or state regulations that require transportation plans to include climate change strategies a look at conformity/air quality implications from
The project would generally involve a panel of state DOTs and EPA with a mandate to develop sample project-level studies (modeling and documentation) for particulate (and carbon monoxide and NO2
NESHAP applies to demolition and “renovation” (modification); requires prior inspection for presence of asbestos and remediation prior to demolition/renovation if possible; what’s the best way and time/place to do that? Is it necessary
EPA’s 1-hour NO2 standard is low enough to potentially cause problems, and they require near-road monitoring to determine attainment. What are the best methods for modeling roadway and rail (non-electric) NO2 microscale impacts?
If a project has known lead-contaminated soils, what are the best management practices for construction and maintenance activities in those areas for purposes of both worker safety and protection of nearby areas?
Problem Evidence suggests that there are synergies between transit, land use, and pricing strategies that enhance the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction effect of each when implemented together. However, more detailed
Problem Most studies to date have relied on annual percent increases from baseline transit ridership in order to project the greenhouse gas emission reduction potential of transit investments. This study would
Problem Early federal transit-related greenhouse gas (GHG) efforts such as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s (ARRA) Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction (TIGGER) grants enable transit agencies
Problem There are several steps in the freight processing system, from warehousing, manufacture, and distribution that generate trips, usually by truck, between these stages. Often import material is in a disaggregated
Problem The climate change literature projects that weather conditions and weather patterns could change significantly enough to trigger shifts in land use, economic activity and trade, which would lead to
Problem Supply chains are designed for the processing, staging, and carriage of goods to market. Design choices are determined by sourcing decisions, production and competitive requirements, logistical economies, product characteristics, land
Problem An increase in allowable freight tonnage on U.S. highways has been proposed. Such an increase in truck weight could affect greenhouse gases (GHG’s) and other emissions, and the mix of
Problem Freight movement accounts for approximately 20% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation and is expected to increase in its share. The logistical challenges of freight transportation which involves multiple
Tolling has been identified as having a potentially disproportionate impact on low income populations. This research would consist of a state of the issue literature search on how different NEPA, or
Many wildlife underpasses are noisy and frighten animals away. Research needs to be done to find a way to make thes structures (bridges, box culvers, steel arch culverts, conspan arches,
Scope: Quality preservation and maintenance of historic roadside structures within highway right of way is a challenge within the established low bid requirements of state agencies. As historic preservation generally
While many EJ issues are legitimate, many are also unsuited for legal action. Moving forward, the goal of our EJ work is to address this dilemma by conducting empirical research
Recent toxicity data obtained through studies conducted by the State of Iowa and EPA Region 5 in 2009 showed that chloride was less toxic to aquatic organisms when accounting for
The requirements outlined in TMDL reports and drafts are applied broadly to a number of land uses and are often based on assumptions. Quite often, the impacts related to transportation
Examine performance indicators that measure timely human access more directly. How can transportation systems be easily evaluated in terms of measures of human quality of life – community livability, increasing commerce
When applying MOVES (MOtor Vehicle Emission Simulator) in project-level PM (particulate matter) conformity analysis, link-based traffic characteristics are required at local on-road level so as to ensure realistically representation of
Scope: Determine which utility/transportation projects are compatible from a construction and maintenance standpoint. Develop planning, design, and construction techniques to facilitate the joint projects
Zinc is an important targeted constituent for Departments of Transportation (DOTs). The average concentration in highway runoff exceeds water quality objectives. For individual storms, the measured concentrations of total zinc in highway discharge
Lead tire weights used to balance wheels may be a substantial source of lead in the highway environment. These weights are sometimes released from wheels and then abraded by traffic,releasing lead into
The objective of this study is to determine the optimum timing and application rates of various deicing materials. A variety of standard tests can be conducted to determine the effectiveness of various chemicals, including:
EPA has reported recently that the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus pollution entering our waters has escalated dramatically over the last 50 years, and that this trend will continue with US population
Scope: Information from the Every Day Counts (EDC) project indicates that there is currently not enough information about re-cycles asphalt to determine how it fits into the program long term. A
Problem Mitigation for the adverse effects to historic properties under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act often entails an “economic” exercise of trying to estimate the value of the historic property
Scope: Develop an integrated asset management plan for utilities and right of way. Develop guidelines for concurrent construction and maintenance activities; develop guidelines for cost sharing of degradation of pavement life;
RESEARCH PROBLEM STATEMENT In recent years, coal-fired power plants are more frequently utilizing air pollution control technologies that result in fly ash with elevated concentrations of ammonia (referred to herein
Objective would be to investigate various methods of mitigating noise from joints on overpasses. Look for practical methods that are both cost effective and easy to install/maintain. These methods can
Background: Construction activities can produce fugitive dust and exhaust emissions of criteria pollutants from heavy duty construction equipment. The AASHTO Air Quality Community of Practice issued State of the Practice
The study would evaluate the Illinois Department of Transportation’s sustainability initiatives from a geographic perspective and identify gaps, statewide gaps in sustainability. The study would work in tandem with the
PROBLEM Historic roads are an intrinsic part of the nation’s heritage, representing different periods and trends in engineering design from the wagon roads that survive in rural areas to early
With the 2012 listing of the Atlantic Shortnose Sturgeon to the threatened and endangered species list the Virginia Department of Transportation has had to produce two noise analyses for a
We wish to ascertain the impact of Japanese knotweed on the stability and lifespan of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure near waterways. Japanese knotweed is one of the world’s worst
Transportation agencies across the nation are charged with operating and maintaining stormwater infrastructure associated with roadways to ensure runoff is efficiently removed from impervious surfaces and discharged to nearby waterbodies
Post Construction Best Management Practices (BMPs) are required by DOT NPDES Permits and applicable Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) to reduce pollutant loadings that are discharged into receiving waters from
State, county, and other departments of transportation are increasingly subjected to water quality requirements specifying reduction of stormwater flows and their associated pollutants from new and existing roads. Most water
Many DOTs across the country apply salt (estimated at 22 million tons annually in the US) during the winter to lower the freezing point and accelerating the melting process. Unfortunately,
Anecdotally, many lower-income households rely on public transit for transport. How does public transit access to community colleges and 2-year colleges impact a person’s ability to get to college, and
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