(Washington, D.C.) Two of Gannett Fleming’s projects, for which we provided lead engineering or environmental services, were selected for the recent Transportation Research Board’s (TRB’s) 85th Annual Meeting “Meet the Author” Poster Sessions. Both projects were selected for the Community Impact Assessment category.
The more than 2,600 presentations made at TRB covered all modes of transportation and attracted an international audience of approximately 10,000 transportation professionals.
The following provides an overview of our projects.
Assessment to Solution – A Balanced Approach
New Jersey Route 18 provides vital regional travel, as well as access to Rutgers, the State University, city centers, communities, and our Interstate Highway System in Middlesex County, N.J. The recently completed Route 18 Extension completes the “missing link” in the New Jersey State Highway System, while Route 18 in New Brunswick is currently under construction. The latter project will provide needed safety and operational improvements integrated with this urban and riverfront setting.
While each project maintained different needs and characteristics, context-sensitive solutions were developed from one approach: defining and balancing transportation needs with environmental responsibility and community values. This balance, built on trust and empowerment with stakeholders, enabled the New Jersey Department of Transportation (DOT) to manage the Corridor with suitable and expedient solutions.
A Safer Route for Preserving a National Landmark
Route 26 serves as the primary route for the movement of people and goods between Portland, Maine’s largest city, and the western Maine Lakes and Mountain Region. The portion of Route 26 in New Gloucester and Poland was a narrow two-lane highway with steep grades and curves. It also bisected the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, the last active Shaker Village in the world.
The heavy traffic that rumbled through the Shaker Village resulted in a variety of adverse effects on the Shakers and general disruption of daily village activities. The MaineDOT and local residents debated potential improvements for Route 26 for more than 30 years. However, thanks to innovative planning, design, and extensive public involvement, the community and DOT were able to agree on a course of action – a bypass of the village, built in 2004, that removed heavy traffic volumes. Route 26 is now safer, community members are satisfied, and the historic village has been preserved.
We invite you to view a PDF of either poster here.
