Annual Report – 2006/2007 – Part A

REPORT
2006-2007
APPALACHIAN TRANSPORTATION INSTITUTE
ANNUAL
NICK J. RAHALL, II
PART A
YEAR
& ANNUAL: REPORT
Building Jobs through Transportation
CONTENTS
Center Theme
Success Stories
Education
Research
Technology Transfer
Management Structure
Funding Sources and Expenditures
Project List (New, Ongoing, Completed)
3
4
15
23
35
62
69
70
DISCLAIMER:
The contents of this report reflect the views of
the authors, who are responsible for the facts
and the accuracy of the information presented
herein. This document is disseminated under the
sponsorship of the Department of Transportation,
University Transportation Centers Program, in the
interest of information exchange. The United
States Government assumes no liability for the
contents or use thereof.
2
ANNU-
REPORT
2006-2007
CENTER THEME
“Transportation and Economic Development in Mountain ReThe mountainous terrain and dispersed population of Southern West Virginia and other parts of
Appalachia have presented and continue to present
unique challenges to planning, construction, and
maintenance of safe, cost-effective transportation
infrastructure.
In addition, the implementation of post-mining
land use, which can create flat land suitable for
economic development in the region, has been
hindered by transportation systems inadequate for
commercial and industrial purposes.
Through its designation as a University Transportation Center (UTC), RTI is empowered to
focus on a comprehensive, broadly- based, multidisciplinary research, educational and technology
transfer program on this region’s transportation
and transportation-related economic development
challenges.
The UTC at Marshall University may include
activities at: Bluefield State University, Bluefield,
W.Va.; Mountain State University, Beckley, W.Va.;
and West Virginia University Institute of Technology,
Montgomery, W.Va.
3
RTI Headquarters in
Huntington, W.Va.
4
Above: Orange lines indicate the proposed route of the I-73 High
Priority Corridor through portions of Southern West Virginia superimposed over high resolution aerial imagery. Red lines indicate the
locations of surface mining activity. Yellow lines show the locations
of rural communities.
Above: White shading represents state and county boundaries
that comprise the Appalachian Region. Red shading represents
counties that are distressed per National Standards (i.e., more
than 150% of the National Unemployment Rate). The number
of distressed counties in the region can be partially attributed
to a costly and incomplete surface transportation system.
4
4
ANNU-
Success Stories
REPORT
2006-2007
SUCCESS STORIES
5
•
RTI Presents First Two Railroad Safety and Operations
Research Center of Excellence (Rail-SOURCE) Awards
On May 24, 2007, the first two recipients of the Railroad
Safety and Operations Research Center of Excellence (Rail-SOURCE
) Awards, Mr. John West and Mr. Bernie Sanders, were honored at
RTI headquarters in Huntington, W.Va.
RTI Director Bob Plymale, who opened the event, said one of
the purposes of the awards was to “highlight a very successful public
private partnership in engineering research between RTI and the
CSX Corporation. They played a key role in helping us get our first
railroad engineering research dollar in addition to providing access
to their rail lines here locally for several years.” In fact, he said, “The
railroad engineering research project here at RTI is our largest and
longest funded project. Since 2000, Senator Byrd has provided over
$4.3 million [of Federal Railroad Administration grants] to RTI for
this [railroad research] project. We think these funds have produced
some significant results that you will hear a little more about today
with more results hopefully later this year.” These results include RTI’s
first international award for the “Best Paper Award from University
Researchers” received during the 8th International Conference and
Exhibition on Railway Engineering in London, England, in 2005.
Plymale said the research team, which consisted of Dr. Richard Begley, Dr. Tony Szwilski and Pete
Dailey, were responsible for the international award, which would not have been possible without support and
participation from CSX during the research stages.
West, President of CSX Technology and Chief Information Officer, CSX corporation, said West said,
“Over a year ago I was asked to be a founding member and an active participant in RTI’s Rail-SOURCE
Advisory Board, also know as the Railroad Safety and Operations Research Center of Excellence…Such a
role, at least for me and my team, is very different and challenging. The program’s intent, at least from my
perspective, was to identify opportunities to improve railroad operation, safety and other measures, by using
innovation and subsequent practical application. By working together, we believed the team could produce
tangible benefits.
“Using CSX as the test bed, with Bernie Sanders assigned to direct our activities, CSX provided input
on numerous activities: high accuracy mobile yard surveys, tracking devices on railcars, power generation for
railcar sensors. Of those three experiments we are already using the mobile surveying equipment in production
on 2 years within CSX with great results. It is faster and safer, which translate to lower cost. In less than a year
together, the teams produced tangible ‘corporate’ benefits. Based on the results I have shared with you today,
we look forward through this partnership to find even more benefits for our industry from the valuable research
conducted here at Marshall.”
Marshall University President Stephen Kopp presented
brief remarks and then presented the first Rail-SOURCE
Awards to West and Mr. Bernie Sanders, Director of
Progress Excellence for CSX Technology.
Kopp said, “There is no doubt in my mind that the
integration of our resources, with the resources of
an operating railroad, has resulted in a very unique
opportunity for RTI and [Marshall University]. The RailSOURCE Advisory Board will play a key role in the years
ahead
in maintaining the momentum of the successful
6
technology development and transfer.”
•
RTI Awarded $493,614 COPS Grant to Assist West Virginia State
Police in Installing GPS Reporting System in Vehicles
RTI was awarded a $493,614 grant from the United States Department of Justice to assist the West Virginia
State Police (WVSP) in installing a mobile, paperless, data-reporting and responding system in 600 vehicles used
throughout the state. U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall announced the project Dec. 29, 2006, in Beckley, W.Va. On June 1,
2007, a demonstration of the intalled units took place at WVSP headquarters in Beckley, W.Va.
Federal funding for the project was secured by Rahall as part of the Department of Justice appropriations bill last year. “By bringing GPS technology to our law enforcement personnel, we will provide them with
some of the most modern crime-fighting equipment available,” Rahall said.
“Our police have the difficult job of protecting our
communities and fighting crime. Providing state-of
the-art technologies like GPS will give them a leg
up on catching criminals and responding quickly to
emergencies that may arise.”
The project is part of the United States Department
of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services
Program (COPS) activities, a program Rahall has
fought to keep alive.
“This project is a perfect example of why we need
to keep the COPS program alive and well,” he said.
“West Virginia residents deserve the same police
protection that is already being used in many parts of the country,” Rahall said. “Better technologies for our
courageous officers make everyone safer.”
Traditionally, highway and criminal incidents are recorded at the scene on paper and then entered
into the state system at a later time. However, the new system allows information to be transferred into the
vehicle-based equipment, which uses global positioning satellite technology to transmit information faster and
easier to WVSP headquarters and other WVSP vehicles, at the scene of the incident. Through this project, new
GPS-based communication equipment will be installed in WVSP vehicles and given to division officers. The
technology allows WVSP to report data, including criminal and highway incident records, without the use of
paper. Criminal background checks can also be conducted with the equipment, and police can communicate
with other West Virginia agencies during emergencies on and off state highways. RTI will assist in the technology selection, deployment & training aspects of the project.
“RTI has long championed the deployment and testing of GPS technology along the railroads and the
major highways,” Rahall said. “This funding will help RTI expand the ongoing GPS deployment efforts to
assist the law enforcement agencies in acquiring the appropriate GPS technology for their special needs.”
RTI Director Bob Plymale said, “We are pleased to facilitate our state police and first responders with
the technology to help make our roads and rural areas safer for West Virginians. By securing the funding for
this program, Congressman Rahall has provided a way for emergency personnel to respond to emergencies
and protect West Virginians more safely, quickly and efficiently.”
Eventually, other law enforcement agency vehicles, such as city or municipal law enforcement agencies,
and select first responder vehicles, such as ambulances, tow trucks or fire trucks, will be equipped with com-
7
•
Three New Research Associates Concentrate on Geographical Information System (GIS Projects)
Three new research associates, Jeremy Boykin, Chandra Inglis-Smith and Theresa Litteral, recently
became the newest full-time members of RTI’s staff. Their duties concentrate on Geographical Information
System (GIS) projects, which include using a variety of GIS software to create coverage generation, table attribution, data projection, remote sensing, conversion and analysis. They also assist in training clients to use
various GIS software packages, developing and presenting GIS data and output to clients, as well as analyzing,
designing, implementing, testing and deploying custom GIS software applications. All are proficient in using
ESRI software and have a good understanding of GIS theory and practical application, which includes a broad
knowledge of remote sensing, global satellite technology, database management and GIS programming.
Boykin has a bachelor’s degree in Computers and Information Technology from Marshall University, and while earning his degree, he was an undergraduate research assistant
at RTI for two years. His current projects include: ADHS Cost Estimate for the
Appalachian Regional Commission, WVTRIP GIS Portal for the West Virginia
Department of Transportation (WVDOT), the Workforce Development Study for
the WVDOT and internal server migration.
While completing a master’s degree in
Physical Science – Geobiophysical Modeling, InglisSmith was a graduate research assistant at RTI from
2004 to 2006. She was also the 2005 Student of the
Year. As a research associate, she is working on the Workforce Development Study
for the WVDOT, GIS Training for the WVDOT, ADHS Cost Estimate for the
Appalachian Regional Commission and Tax Parcel Mapping. Inglis-Smith has a
bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and Anthropology from Mercyhurst College
Litteral began her career at RTI as one of its first graduate research assistants
in 2001. After she finished a master’s degree in Physical Science – Geobiophysical
Modeling, she continued to work part time on several GIS-related projects before joining the staff full time.
Her current projects include: DOT Linear Referencing Project; Tax Parcel Mapping; Hatfield-McCoy Trails
mapping; Share the Road Project; and the Workforce Development Study for the WVDOT.
RTI Director Robert Plymale said, “Each of the new research associates
began their time with RTI as students, where they gained at least two years of
background experience in academic research and working with GIS and information technology projects.
“Our three newest research associates are not native West Virginians. In
fact, Jeremy is from Mississippi, Chandra is from New York and Theresa is from
the United Kingdom. They come from vastly different regions, but were attracted
to RTI because of its high technology ties to Marshall University. We are fortunate not only to assist in their education and workforce training, but to provide
these highly- skilled workers with jobs that allow them to use their skills to improve economic development
in West Virginia and the Appalachian region.”
8
•
Geospatial Day Activities Take Place in Cabell, Kanawha
Counties
High school students, college students and professionals received information about educational opportunities and career options in the rapidly expanding Geospatial Industry during Geospatial Day activities
presented by RTI, Nov. 15, 2006.
Geospatial Day is designed to inform and promote fields of study and occupations incorporating global
positioning systems (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing systems. To celebrate
this day, research associates presented to high school students in Cabell and Kanawha counties. First, Pete
Dailey spoke to a group of approximately 20 junior and senior physics students at Sissonville High School in
Kanawha County. Using GPS technology, he located the school’s global address and installed a GPS marker,
which was supplied by Marshall University College of Information Technology and Engineering. This activity
took place in conjunction with the school’s celebration of International Education Week. Robin White, Sissonville High international studies coordinator, said, “[Dailey] was recognized at our entire school assembly
by our principal, Calvin McKinney, as Dailey displayed our global address for the dedication of our courtyard.
We will also have a plaque by our front door denoting our global address and its location in the center of the
courtyard. This is part of our international studies program and hopefully will be a daily reminder to students
they are part of a bigger community than Sissonville.”
In Huntington, Geo-spatial Day activities kicked off at 9 a.m. in the Memorial Student Center with map
and vendor displays. Students from Spring Valley, Tolsia and Wayne high schools in Wayne County, Cabell
Midland High School in Cabell County and Dawson-Bryant High School in Lawrence County, Ohio, were
welcomed at 10 a.m. by RTI Director Bob Plymale. Opening remarks began at 10:10 a.m., and the keynote
address was given at 10:30 a.m. by Dr. Samuel Purkis. Geospatial professionals from academia, industry, government and non-profit organizations participated in a panel discussion from 11 – 11:30 a.m., and four speaker
sessions took place from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
Dr. Randall Jones, Marshall University Community and Technical College Professor, said, “Geospatial
knowledge and skills are being implemented and sought after by a large number of fields. These may include
business, cartography, communications, conservation, defense, education, engineering, government, health
and human services, disease demographics, forensics, criminal justice, natural resources, transportation and
utilities.”
The Huntington Geospatial Day event was sponsored by Marshall Community and Technical College,
Marshall University College of Information Technology and Engineering, Marshall University College of Liberal
Arts and College of Science; and the Nick J. Rahall, II Appalachian Transportation Institute. Vendors represented
academia, federal government, state government and private/nonprofit groups and included: various Marshall
University Colleges; Marshall Community and Technical College; Appalachian Regional Commission; U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers; WV Department of Agriculture; WV Department of Environmental Protection; WV
Department of Transportation; WV Geological and Economic Survey; WV Health Care Authority; Charleston
Blueprint; Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI); GPS Innovations; Hatfield and McCoy Trails;
Rahall Appalachian Transportation Institute; Strictly Business; Thrasher Engineering; Triad Engineering; and
WV Society of Professional Surveyors.
9
• National Transportation Week Activities Include
Heartland Corridor Working Group Meeting, K-12
Outreach Transportation
Career Visits
Heartland Corridor Working Group Meeting
Transportation and economic development
professionals from West Virginia, Ohio, Virginia,
Washington, D.C. and other areas met in Huntington,
W.Va., during National Transportation Week with the
goal of furthering the Heartland Corridor project.
The Heartland Corridor is a public-private partnership that will facilitate more efficient intermodal
transportation from Norfolk, Va.’s port region to Chicago, Illinois. A large section of the Heartland Corridor
will pass through southwestern Virginia, southern West Virginia and southern and central Ohio. One of the
goals of the Heartland Corridor is to allow trains to stack intermodal cargo containers for increased capacity
with the end resulting in less tractor-trailer traffic and to construct shipping terminals at key points for intermodal connections. An intermodal facility located in Prichard, Wayne County, W.Va., is planned and expected
to provide an economic boost and jobs to the area.
During a luncheon, which ended the working group meeting, RTI Director Bob Plymale said, “We have
the greatest opportunity we’ve had in our area for economic development, and we need to capitalize on that. If
we collectively do things together in our three states, we will move forward and we will have job creation.”
Mark Bugher, president of the Huntington Area Chamber of Commerce; Dr. Stephen Kopp, Marshall
University (MU) President; Dana Robertson, director of the Maritime Enhancement Institute at MU; Patrick
Donovan, executive director of the West Virginia Port Authority; and Dr. Robert Martinez, chief engineer of
bridges and structures at Norfolk Southern; also spoke at the luncheon.
Transportation Career Visits
Transportation professionals from the local road, river and rail industries informed local elementary
school students of careers in these industries May 8-11, 2007, in preparation of National Transportation Week.
Visits were made to fifth graders at Davis Creek Elementary and St. Joseph Grade School to describe the educational steps, which range from professional certifications to associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees, that
are required to become eligible for transportation careers. National Transportation Week took place May 13-19,
2007, but the presentations began the previous week, because Cabell County students are required to take the
state-mandated WesTest during National Transportation Week.
RTI’s Sang Yoo spoke about careers that use GIS technology. He showed them the steps to generate a
map by collecting points with GPS units, entering them into a computer and distinguishing characteristics such
as climate, environmental features, manmade structures, hazards and other features. The students watched a
video from National GIS Day, which said there are currently 75,000 jobs that use GIS and require highly-skilled
workers. Yoo then informed students how to prepare for the training required for these jobs, including training
Marshall University and RTI can provide. Erika Bailey of the Marshall Community and Technical College
(MCTC) Railroad Conductor Training School informed students about careers as railroad conductors. Her
presentation began with informing students about the different kinds of trains and what they carry. Then they
learned about conductor’s duties, including knowing how to safely arrange cars, reading signals, doing safety
checks and using GPS technology to communicate with other trains, switches and stations. They discussed the
steps to becoming a conductor from the application process at MCTC’s conductor school to hands-on training
and classroom work. John Whiteley, director of the MCTC Inland Waterways Academy, provided information
about job training for careers on the rivers and oceans. He surprised students by informing them that the Port
of Huntington Tri-State is the fourth largest port in America, and he stressed the significance of the Port in
10
• West Virginia Association of Geospatial Professionals
Officially Organized; Inglis-Smith Elected Secretary
On Thursday
March 15, 2007, a new
professional association,
the West Virginia Association of Geospatial
Professionals (WVAGP),
became a permanent organization. WVAGP’s
objective is to be “organized for the public
benefit exclusively for
educational and scientific purposes to promote and support geospatial professionals in the effective use and
sharing of geospatial information and related resources throughout the state of West Virginia.”
The meeting was attended by 55 people from West Virginia, 53 of whom signed up to be charter
members. Bylaws for the group, as well as Articles of Incorporation, were adopted at this meeting. In addition, members elected its first Board of Directors. Research Associate Chandra Inglis-Smith was elected to a
two-year term on the board and was also elected to a one-year term as secretary. Two other research associates, Theresa Litteral and Sang Yoo, also became charter members of the WVAGP at the meeting. WVAGP’s
first organizational meeting took place in September 2006. During this meeting, geospatial professionals from
federal government, state government, education, private industry and local/regional sectors expressed interest
in organizing the association.
•
Hamilton Receives NASA Grant for LEGO NXT
Linda Hamilton, Marshall University math instructor and Rahall Transportation Institute Coordinator of K-12 Outreach Intelligent Transportation
Systems Workshops, has received a grant from
the NASA West Virginia Space Grant Consortium
(WVSGC).
The WVSGC has a mission to “develop a statewide infrastructure that will enhance the state’s
competitiveness in aerospace research, education,
and industrial activities. Specifically, the Consortium
aims to capture, channel, and enhance the interests
and activities of current and potential scientists and
engineers in its member institutions.”
By awarding Hamilton the grant, which she originally applied for to cover costs for the new LEGO
NXT robots, WVSGC is supporting their mission by enabling students to become familiar with technology,
science and engineering. The new LEGO NXT robots will be used for outreach activities in cooperation with
NASA Explorer schools in Mt. View and Tucker Valley, as well as tristate area schools. Hamilton is also one
of the NXT pilot educators for Carnegie-Mellon University’s curriculum in Robotics Engineering. This year’s
FIRST LEGO League teams will also be using the new NXT robots in preparation for the FLL tournament
11
•
WV Public Service Commission - Rail Safety Section Ranked
#1
On July 10, 2007, West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin recognized the West Virginia Public Service
Commission’s (WVPSC) Railroad Safety Section for being ranked number one in the nation in 2007. In 2006
& 2005, the section was ranked second in the nation.
During the event, WVPSC Transportation - Enforcement Division Director Gary Edgel expressed appreciation for RTI’s partnerships with several programs, such as Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT) and
West Virginia Operation Lifesaver (WVOL). Because RTI has provided instructors, facilities, volunteers and
training materials, research associates John Ball and LeAndria Reed were present during the recognition event.
The Railroad Safety Section is responsible for the administration and enforcement of federal and state safety
regulations governing the transportation of persons and property by rail. In an effort to reduce the number of
grade crossing accidents, the Railroad Safety Section is also responsible for the WVOL program.
•
RTI Receives Operation Lifesaver Awards, Trains Six New
Presenters
February 24, 2007, marked another success
for West Virginia Operation Lifesaver (WVOL) as six
new presenters were trained to speak out on railroad
safety and awareness. Trainers and presenters met at the
Nick J. Rahall, II Appalachian Institute on a Saturday
to learn what is necessary to be a presenter as well as
what information is pertinent when teaching railroad
safety.
Training focused on the most essential points of Operation Lifesaver, which are summarized by their
two slogans: “Look, Listen, Live” and “Stay Off, Stay Away, Stay Alive.” Under both of these slogans exists
a plethora of information designed to educate the public about railroad safety and what can be done to ensure
that every individual is aware of the dangers that exist on and around trains.
Ira Baldwin, of the West Virginia Public Safety Commission, headed up the training, along with Ross
Dye III, of Norfolk Southern, and David Farley, who works for CSX. Trainees included Julie Adkins, student
of Wyoming East High School; Charley Bickford, student of Nicholas County High School; Tom Davis, employee of CSX; Dean Hudnall, employee of WVPSC; Kate Jordan, MU grad student and employee of RTI;
and Greg Morgan, employee of Norfolk Southern, John Perry, was also present as the state coordinator of
WVOL.
Each trainee gave a 10 minute presentation at the end of the training session as a way to get used to
presenting to the public, as well as a way to demonstrate their knowledge of railroad safety. Within 90 days
of the training, trainees are required to schedule a presentation that will be observed by one of the trainers. In
order to stay an active member of OL, trained presenters are required to give four presentations per year.
Operation Lifesavers’s annual presenters meeting took place March 29. The meeting highlighted
statistics on how much of the public had heard the OL message and suggested strategies that presenters may use to educate more
people on railroad safety. Many
12
presenters were acknowledged for their hard work and effort, four of those presenters being RTI employees.
Errin Jewell accepted an award on behalf of RTI for being the year’s education partner, while John Ball and
LeAndria Reed both received the Mountaineer Award, which recognizes someone who has gone above and
beyond in their service to OL. Kim Baker also received an award for RTI, which acknowledged the role that
the institute has played in helping OL spread its message.
• Helmer Becomes RTI’s First Trails Specialist
Recreational trails have become one of southern West Virginia’s
top tourist attractions, being surpassed only by white water rafting in
2005. In fact, since 2000, the Hatfield-McCoy Trail system, which is
the largest trail system in the region, has grown from 300 miles in two
counties to more than 500 miles in five counties.
To help facilitate this work, Bryan Helmer became RTI’s first Trails Specialist Sept. 1, 2006. For RTI,
he will work with the West Virginia State Trail Coordinator to identify and maintain a data base of agencies
and organizations interested in securing contracted assistance in developing new trails and maintaining existing trails. He will also assist in creating a website to provide information about and to promote the trailrelated services provided by RTI; conduct onsite analysis of identified areas for contracted services; establish
scopes of work; and participate in the activities of the Statewide Trails Coalition. His duties specifically for
the Hatfield-McCoy Trails include performing mapping, layout, construction, and maintenance of trails and
trailhead structures. He will provide environmental oversight of trail related operations in concordance with
West Virginia laws and regulations; use GPS to map existing trails, explore new route locations and create
links among and between existing and planned trail routes; and download, analyze and process GPS data.
Helmer earned a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Conservation from Marshall University,
which included Off-Highway Vehicle Management Courses instructed by Dr. Raymond Busbee. Because
Helmer completed an internship with the Hatfield-McCoy Trails in 2004, he is familiar with the organization’s operations. As an intern, he said he gained experience in all positions within the company, and his main
responsibilities at that time were trail and fleet maintenance. “I learned planning, assessing and trail layout,
working with Troy Dominic and John Fekete, director of Trail Planning and Development for the HatfieldMcCoy Trails.”
In addition, Helmer will assist field work crews with trail construction and maintenance activities
issues; research property ownership and identify property boundaries as needed; plan and develop new trail
systems including trail designation, trail rating, alignment, and signage;
create accurate maps identifying trail locations, property boundaries and
resource extraction locations and anticipated duration of extraction activities. He will also direct and supervise trail construction, trail reroutes,
and single track construction.
•
Indian Ridge Trail System Opens
Off-highway vehicle enthusiasts from across the United States traveled
to Ashland, W.Va., March 16, 2007, to be the first riders on the Indian
Ridge Trail System. Despite the rainy weather, riders from West Virginia,
Tennessee, Virginia and other areas made the trip to McDowell County
to ride the newest addition to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. This trail consists of approximately 75 miles of trail and one trailhead with a two-acre
parking/loading area and restrooms. RTI’s trails specialist and GIS research associates assisted with creating the
13
Students Explore Careers in Transportation, Technology during Summer LEGO ActivitiesStudents Explore Careers in Transportation, Technology during Summer LEGO
Activities
•
This summer, Linda Hamilton, Coordinator K-12 Intelligent Transportation Systems Workshops Using
LEGO Robotics, helped students to explore careers in transportation through LEGO camps, workshops and
special events.
From June 18-22, 2007, 65 4-H DUPLO Campers built “everything from abstract designs to zoos” using DUPLO blocks. Four groups of campers used pictorial charts to assemble vehicles and roads that solved
problems such as transporting goods across water, mountains, cities and farms. Train safety was emphasized
when students built eight configurations of a track and learned to switch parts, monitor intersections, move
gates and signal traffic while two model engines ran.
Simple machine kits, which were purchased by RTI, were used June 25-29, during the 4-H LEGO
Technology Camp. Participants created vehicles powered by balloons, sails, rockets and rubber bands. They
discussed how each energy source propelled vehicles and compared direction, speed, distance and stability.
“Make It Go!” was the theme of a camp that took place June 25-29, at Marshall University (MU). Teams
built intelligent robotic vehicles by following pictorial instructions. They were required to use problem-solving
skills to modify vehicles to accommodate custom requirements. Emphasis was placed on making sturdy structures, incorporating gears and pulleys, controlling speed and direction and integrating RCX microcomputers.
Parents joined children in constructing and programming intelligent vehicles using LEGO Cities and
Transportation sets, which were provided by RTI, during Robotics Camp, which took place July 9-13 at Marshall University’s Division of Continuing Education.
On July 14, “Kids Day” in Morgantown featured a LEGO Transportation build, during which younger
students constructed vehicles, streets and buildings using DUPLO blocks provided by RTI.
“LEGO Fun” Days took place at Cabell and Lincoln County libraries, when Hamilton led students
as they used LEGO elements to build city neighborhoods, places to work and vehicles. Events took place at
Salt Rock and Milton, Tues., July 17; at the Cabell County Main Library and Guyandotte, Wed., July 18; and
Cox Landing and West Huntington, Thurs. July 19. “Big kids and little kids explored careers as they modeled
building an intelligent city, which included places to work and live as well as the transportation infrastructure,”
said Hamilton.
From July 30-Aug. 3, Hamilton hosted two camps at MU. LEGO DUPLO CAMP took place in the
morning, when fifteen K-3rd graders “set up a world of DUPLO with a playground, stores, parks, zoos, homes
and workplaces, complete with transportation to get to them all. In the afternoon, LEGO Technology Building
Camps consisted of twelve 3rd-8th graders, who “built LEGO gears, pulleys, levers, wheels and axles into
machines to solve 100 challenges,” she said.
Twelve students in grade 4 and up participated in “City Sights – Program LEGO Robotics” camp Aug.
6-10. They built and programmed environmentally-friendly robots to perform tasks of the FIRST LEGO League
City Sights Challenges. Students participated in small-team design projects, while fostering an understanding
of science and physical principles for robotic building and computer programming in RoboLab. Projects were
structured to allow students to work in an open-ended, investigative environment, while working in a team.
The final summer LEGO event was completed Aug. 18 during the “Block Party” in the Highlawn neighborhood of Huntington. The Barboursville Middle School FIRST LEGO League coach and team members got
14
ANNU-
REPORT
2006-2007
EDUCATION
15
Education Goal:
A multi-disciplinary program of course work and experiential learning
that reinforces the transportation theme of the Center in addition to an
increased number of students, faculty, and staff who are attracted to and
substantially involved in the undergraduate, graduate and professional
programs of RTI.
• Master of Science in Technology Management with Emphasis in Transportation Systems and Technologies
• Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Transportation
and Logistics (Accelerated Executive Program)
A partnership between RTI and Marshall University’s College of
Information Technology and Engineering (CITE) created a new degree
emphasis in Transportation Systems and Technologies for the Master of
Science Degree in Technology Management. A partnership between RTI
and the Marshall University Lewis College of Business (LCOB) also
created a new emphasis in Transportation and Logistics for the Master’s
Degree in Business Administration.
Technology Management combines concepts and methods from
management, business, science and engineering with a specific technology emphasis to address organizational needs. The new MBA emphasis
offers a variety of course sequences and alternatives that can be completed in two years or less with Friday evening and weekend classes.
Other alternatives can be pursued as needed. Additional transportation
graduate and undergraduate programs are under development.
RTI awards a limited number of Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) to full-time students pursuing the
Transportation Systems and Technologies and Transportation and Logistics programs. The GRA provides a tuition waiver
and a stipend to fully-admitted students who meet eligibility criteria.
These students also work for RTI principal investigators gaining valuable experiences about transportation
and transportation related economic development challenges in the Appalachian region and other rural regions of the
United States.
RTI CO-SPONSORED GRADUATE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS
Partnerships between RTI and Marshall University Graduate College (MUGC), MU College of Information Technology and Engineering (CITE) and the MU Lewis College of Business (LCOB), allow students
to pursue two new transportation programs, a Master of Science in Technology Management with Emphasis
in Transportation Systems and Technologies or a Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in
Transportation and Logistics (Accelerated Executive Program):
16
M.S. in Technology Management with Emphasis in Transportation Systems and
Technologies
Technology Management combines concepts and methods from management, business, science and
engineering, with a specific technology emphasis to address organizational needs. The M.S. in Technology
Management with an emphasis in Transportation Systems and Technologies integrates course work and experiential learning to prepare students to support transportation systems in Appalachia and the United States.
Assistantships
RTI awards a limited number of Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) to full-time students pursuing
the M. S. in Technology Management degree program and area of emphasis in Transportation. The GRA provides a tuition waiver and a stipend to fully-admitted students who meet eligibility criteria. Graduate students
have a unique opportunity to earn and learn of the best practices in the transportation arena.
Core Courses
Degree requirements consist of 8 core courses (22 hours), 4 area-of-emphasis courses (12 hours), and
1 capstone project (3 hours) for a total of 37 semester hours.
TM 600
TM 610
TM 612
TM 615
TM 620
TM 630
TM 650
EM 660
Program Introduction Seminar*
Technology and Innovation Management*
Economic and Financial Analysis*
Information Technology Strate gies*
Technology Planning*
Quality and Productivity Methods*
Human Resources in Technology Management*
Project Management*
Four Area of Emphasis Courses selected from the following:
SED 550
Traffic Engineering
SED 601
Safety in Transportation
SED 660
Human Factors in Accident Prevention
SED 669
Traffic Safety Management
GEO 510
Urban Geography
GEO 515
Regional Planning and Development
IE 639
Operations Research I
IE 640
Operations Research II
IS 645
Geographic Information Systems
TM 640
Intelligent Transportation Systems*
TM 699
Capstone Project*
(Required*)
17
Master of Business Administration with an Emphasis in Transportation and
Logistics
Foundations Courses:
MKT 511
MGT 500
ECN 501
ACC 510
FIN 510
Marketing & Management
Statistics/Calculus
Economic Analysis
Financial Accounting
Finance
MBA Courses:
ECN 650*
MKT 650
MGT 601
MIS 687
MGT 672
MGT 674
MKT 651*
FIN 620
MGT 699
Transportation Economics
[Replaces: Managerial Economics-ECN 630] Profit Planning and
Controls-ACC 613
Transportation Law and Public Policy
[Replaces: LE 691 Government and Business Relationships]
Quantitative Controls in Business
Management Information Systems
Theories of Management
Production/Operations Management
Carrier Management
[Replaces: MKT 682 Advanced Marketing Manage ment]
Financial Management
Business Policy (Capstone with Transportation Emphasis)*
18
Other Courses
Graduate or Undergraduate Minor in Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation (OHV):
PLS 450/550 Introduction to Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation
PLS 451/551 Planning and Design of OHV Trail Systems
PLS 452/552 Construction of OHV Trail Systems
PLS 453/553 Operation and Mangement of OHV Trail Systems
These courses may fulfill the specialization requirement for students enrolled in the Parks and Leisure Services curriculum. Students enrolled in other majors may pursue a minor in Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation
or take individual OHV courses as electives. The courses are offered online or at Marshall University.
Information Technology Courses
IT 283
Special Topics Geographical Information Systems Concepts
*The Marshall University Graduate catalog is the only accurate source for degree requirements.
19
RTI RESEARCH/EDUCATION FACULTY AND PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATES
Marshall University College of Business
Dr. Paul Hamilton
Dr. Cal Kent
(Former) Dean and Distinguished Professor
Ms. Christine Risch
Marshall University
Dr. Richard Begley
Mr. Peter Dailey
Dr. Betsy Dulin
Dr. Rick McCormick
Dr. Bill Pierson
Dr. Anthony Szwilski
Dr. Herb Tesser
Dr. Wael Zatar
College of Information Technology and Engineering
Professor in Engineering
Adjunct Professor
Professor in Engineering
Professor in Engineering
Professor in Engineering
Professor of Environmental Engineering and Science
Professor in Computer Science
Associate Professor, Engineering
Marshall University
Dr. James Brumfield
Mr. David Cartwright
Dr. Dan Evans
Dr. Frank Gilliam
Ms. Linda Hamilton
Dr. Tom Jones
Dr. James Joy
Dr. Mike Little
Dr. Liz Murray
Dr. Michael Norton
Dr. Ralph Oberly
Dr. Dewey Sanderson
Dr. Ashok Vaseashta
College of Science
Professor in Biology
Instructor Integrated Science and Technology
Professor in Biology
Professor in Biology
Assistant Professor in Mathematics
Associate Professor in Integrated Science and Technology
Professor of Biological Sciences
Professor Integrated Science and Technology
Associate Professor Integrated Science and Technology
Professor in Chemistry
Professor in Physics
Professor in Geology
Professor of Physics and Physical Sciences
Other Marshall University Entities
Dr. Larry Arbogast
Professor in Geography
Dr. Raymond Busbee Professor in Park Resources and Leisure Services
Dr. Peggy Gripshover Associate Professor in Geography
Dr. Randall Jones
Professor Marshall Community and Technical College
Dr. Stan Maynard
Professor in Teacher Education
Ms. Jennifer Plymale Director, Robert C. Byrd Center for Rural Health, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Dr. Jim Sottille
Professor in Education Foundations
Dr. Robert Walker
Chairman, Family and Community Health, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Mr. James Wolfe
Project Engineer, Environmental and Geotechnical Center
Mr. Jon Willis
Project Associate in Rural Health, School of Medicine
Other University Entities
Dr. Mark Burton
University of Tennessee
Dr. Michael Hicks
Ball State University
20
RTI Graduate Assistants 2006-2007
Name
Beckett, Matthew
Blankenship, Amy
Casto, Ken
Dayan, Sinaya
Denovchik, Stacy
Djeukeng, Salvador
Gessner, Tiffany
Guiterrez, Juan Ignacio
Hardman, Stephanie
Hwang, Won Hoi
Jones, Curtis
Jordan, Kate
Northeimer, John
Nguyen, Son Kim
Nguyen, Tinh
Nguyen, Tu Thein
Nguyen, Tuan Anh
Orr, Michael
Perez, Hugo
Ramirez, Carlos
Ransom, Timothy
Swecker, Casey
Stark, Hunter
Tran, Tu
Wang, Xiolohua
Major
Geography
Geography
Physical Science-GIS and Technology Management-Transportation
Technology Management
Geography
Information Systems
Parks and Leisure Services
Physical Science
Environmental Engineering
Geography - Science
Geography
English
Geography
ITS
ITS
ITS
ITS
Physical Science
Technology Management
Technology Management
Geobiophysical Modeling
Physical Science
English
Technology Management
Adult and Technical Education
RTI Undergraduate Assistants 2006-2007
Name
Bailey, Matt
Duplaga, Abbey
Major
Computer Science
Accounting
21
RTI 2007 Student of the Year:
David Lawson
For 2006, David Brian Lawson was chosen as the RTI student
of the year for his work as the Information Technology Coordinator at
RTI and, specifically, for his efforts designing and implementing the
data warehouse and core system components of the Transportation and
Economic Development Information System (TEDIS). TEDIS brings
improved data sharing and technology transfer tools to researchers,
transportation professionals and government agencies. TEDIS is both
a system for reporting transportation and economic data and a platform
for building and hosting related applications in the future.
David first graduated from Marshall University in 1989 with a B.S. degree in Computer Science. He
spent the next 14 years working in the software industry as an engineer, architect and, finally, as vice president
of a software firm in Northern Virginia. In 2003, David and his family returned to West Virginia, and to Marshall University, where he joined the Rahall Appalachian Transportation Institute and also began working on
an M.S. degree in Information Systems. In the three years since, David has applied his skills in requirements
gathering, system analysis and system design to several RTI projects, but with the primary focus on TEDIS. As
a result, TEDIS uses state-of-the-art hardware and software technology to host most RTI research and production projects and data sets including ones for the Appalachian Regional Commission, the WV Department of
Transportation, the WV Department of Environmental Protection, Operation Respond and the WV Statewide
Addressing and Mapping Board.
In May of 2006, David graduated with distinction from Marshall University with a Master of Science
degree in Information Systems. Following graduation, David immediately began working on a Doctorate in
Education, which he will also receive from Marshall University.
22
ANNU-
REPORT
2006-2007
RESEARCH
23
The UTC RESEARCH GOALS INCLUDE:
1) An objective process for selecting and reviewing basic
and applied research project applications; and
2) A process for judging by peers or other experts in the
field to advance the body of knowledge in transportation.
RTI RESEARCH PROGRAM GOALS
RTI research goals, in addition to objective selection with peer review
and monitoring, include performing site specific research projects that can
contribute to:
· a reduced design, construction and maintenance cost with improved safety and
minimal environmental impacts for the transportation system in the region;
· the identification of the best locations for future industrial parks and initiation of their development;
· ensuring opportunities for concurrent infrastructure and info-structure
development during road construction are realized;
· improving access to healthcare, work and education for rural communities
through public transit;
· an enhanced trail/scenic byway system that will support continued growth
of the emerging
tourism industry;
· the development and testing of new technologies and or products that can
improve transportation safety and efficiency in rural settings and support
the diversification of the regional economy simultaneously;
· assistance in the preparation of the future transportation workforce in the region.
RTI seeks to leverage its federal funding through a variety of sources, and in certain cases a traditional
cyclical solicitation process may not be able to incorporate all of the opportunities to assist in doubling the
value and acceleration of the institutionalization of the UTC.
Examples may include, but may not be limited to:
· the opportunity to respond to requests for proposals from non-federal entities;
· the availability of non-federal funding to resolve local climatic emergencies and/or issues related
to
the safety of the motoring public;
· certain private sector and/or non-governmental agency partnership opportunities and projects of the
transportation technology demonstration and/or transfer nature in addition to projects that may
have
a positive impact on the transportation workforce.
However, consistency with the RTI theme, staff expertise, research goals and general goals of the UTC
program are always considered. Projects that materialize from this approach will include a project advisory
team from project conception to completion. Representatives from the Federal Highway Administration will
24
RTI Research Solicitation and Selection Process Flowchart
1) Request for Preliminary Proposal (One to Two Pages with Cost Estimate)
2) Review of Preliminary Proposals Input from RTI Advisory Council
3) RTI Executive Committee Invites Full Proposals from Selected Preliminary Proposals
4) Submittal of Full Proposals by Researchers with Detailed Cost Request
5) Review of Full Proposal
6) Ranking from three (3) peer evaluators including an Assessment of Relevance to
National Transportation Challenges and to the UTC Theme
7) Executive Committee Reviews Evaluations and Awards Funding
RTI RESEARCH PROGRAM OVERVIEW
FOCUS AREAS
ING
TYPES OF PROJECTS RECENTLY COMPLETED, ON-GOOR UNDER DEVELOPMENT
Socio-Economical/Political
• Commodity Flows and Transportation Infrastructure
Assessments
• Transportation Planning, Financing and Public Policies
• Rural,Intermodal/Public Transportation Issues
• Land Use Planning
• Tourism and Recreational Travel
• Rural Transportation Safety
Geotechnical/Environmental
• Wetland Mitigation
• Endangered Species Assessments
• Rock Cut/Slope Stability
• Inventories and Health Risk Assessments from Aban-
doned
Tires
• Tunnel Expansions
• Rail Track and Road Bed Stability
Technology/Transportation
gies
• Geographical Information Systems/Mapping Technolo• Automatic Vehicle Tracking in Rural Settings
• Integration of Remote Sensing Technologies
• Optimizing Recoverable Materials in Transportation
Components
• Intelligent Highway Signage with Improved Visibility
and
25
RTI RESEARCH PROJECT SUMMARIES
RTI TRP 99-00
Commodity Flows and Transportation Inventory for 13 Counties in Southern W.Va.
This project gathers information that describes commodity flows and the cost of
transportation services and identifies intermodal infrastructure improvements that
may reduce transportation costs for a 13-county region in southern W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-01
Automated Road Extraction Using Satellite Imagery
This project aids in the development of an automated road extraction and update
system (AREUS), which can recognize and extract roads, bridges, railroads and
similar transportation-related structures from satellite imagery.
RTI TRP 99-02
Preserving Branch-Line Railroad Capacity in Southern W.Va.
This project identifies branch rail lines most likely to be abandoned in response to
diminished coal production in southern W.Va. and evaluates available alternatives
to maintaining the branch-line capacity in that region.
RTI TRP 99-03
Lincoln County Transportation Study
This project assesses, develops and evaluates an efficient inter-modal transportation
system for access to health care using currently available public vehicles for rural
and economically-depressed areas in Lincoln County, W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-04
An Assessment of Site-Specific Geotechnical, Spatial and Climatic Parameters that Influence the Integrity and Stability of Railroad Track
This project aids in the development of an improved integrated system for monitoring the stability of railroad tracks using remote sensing instrumentation including
ground-penetrating radar and laser interferometry.
RTI TRP 99-05
Use of Electroluminescence Technology for Highway Signage
This project seeks to develop a suitable prototype for highway signs based upon
electroluminescence technology and to assess the economic development potential
from the successful integration of this technology into the national transportation
system.
26
RTI TRP 99-06
Potential Uses of Fly Ash and Other Recoverable Materials in New Transportation Infrastructure Components
This project develops and assesses candidate prototypical applications for developing
transportation and infrastructure components using recoverable materials. Initial emphasis is placed on creating concrete railroad ties using coal combustion by-products
(CCPS) including fly ash; however, using the materials to make other concrete-like
transportation components will also be addressed. Preliminary stability analysis of
the prototype is also performed with computer modeling software.
RTI TRP 99-07
Rock Fall Rating, Evaluation and Data Management Systems for Highway
and Railway Rock Slopes
Using technologies such as laser scanning, electromagnetic induction, GPS and GIS
systems, this project develops methodologies for evaluating the safety of rock cuts
and slopes.
RTI TRP 99-08
Abandoned Tire Health Risk Survey/Analysis
Researchers for this project locate, identify and inventory abandoned tire sites in
Nicholas County, W.Va., and assess the health risks to the citizens from mosquitoes that breed at these abandoned tire dumps. Findings from the project provide
the WVDOT with additional information on the locations and characterizations of
abandoned tire pile accumulations.
RTI TRP 99-09
Establishment of Pre-Construction Baseline Data as a Control for Evaluation of the Long-Term Success of a Mitigated Constructed Wetland Site
(Case Study along the Tolsia Highway)
The project seeks to establish pre-construction baseline data for the US 52 (Tolsia
Highway) wetland mitigation site in Wayne County, W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-10
Endangered Species Identification Along Roads Planned for W.Va. Using
GIS and Remote Sensing Technologies
This project establishes the infrastructure for a web-delivered, interactive mapping
system developed from satellite imagery and integrated with Geographical Information
Systems (GIS) that will locate endemic, threatened or endangered species affected
by transportation systems in W.Va.
27
RTI TRP 99-11
Maximizing Economic Benefits from a Rails to Trails Project in Southern
W.Va.: A Case Study of the Greenbrier River Trail
This project collects data from trail users’ surveys and public meetings to determine
the economic feasibility of creating a “Rails to Trails” project in Greenbrier County,
W.Va. Results from this project may be used to identify and expand the local economic impact of recreation trail systems in other W.Va. locations and to mobilize
community support in the marketing and promotion of such trail systems.
RTI TRP 99-13
Commodity Flows in Northern W.Va.
This project gathers information describing commodity flows and the cost of transportation services and identify inter-modal infrastructure improvements that could
reduce transportation costs for a 19-county region in northwestern W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-14
Drowsy/Fatigued Driving: Prevelance and Under-Reporting in W.Va.
This project first compares accident data related to drowsy driving in W.Va. to data
from the remainder of the United States and suggests preventive strategies, including
targeted outreach activities, to reduce drowsy-driving accidents.
RTI TRP 99-15
Impacts of the Appalachian Corridor on Small Business Development
This project develops a statistical methodology capable of estimating the relationship between micro-business development and access to highway transportation in
Appalachia.
RTI TRP 99-16
McDowell County Transportation Project
This project assess, develops and evaluates an efficient inter-modal transportation system for access to health care using available public vehicles for rural and
economically depressed McDowell County in Southern W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-17
Magnetic Levitation Transportation and Economic Development Opportunities for W.Va.
This project reviews the various applications of magnetic levitation around the United
States and assesses its applicability as a potential mode of transportation in W.Va.
28
RTI TRP 99-18
ITS Research Initiation Project
This project reviews a variety of Intelligent Traffic Monitoring Systems and suggests
the most applicable project to propose a demonstration project in Huntington,W.
Va. Findings may provide a better, interactive navigation mechanism to facilitate
the increasing traffic flow in W.Va. and other areas.
RTI TRP 99-19
Public/Private Port Case Studies
This research assesses the economic efficiency of public port development with
the hope of clarifying the roles that are best played by public and private sector
entities.
RTI TRP 99-23
Survey of Truck Parking Places (Private) in W.Va.
This project seeks to conduct a survey of available public and private parking spaces
and the amenities available at each site in W.Va. It reviews the designs of current
rest areas to determine possible upgrades that would increase parking and amenities.
Further, it reviews the design of DOH weigh stations for innovations to allow for
better use of the surrounding acreage and improvements to the overall facilities.
RTI TRP 99-24
Improving Efficiency of Truck/Rail Intermodal Transportation - The Case
of W.Va.
This project identifies the costs and benefits of modifying railroad trackage to accommodate double-stack equipment by increasing the size of railroad tunnels in W.Va.
RTI TRP 99-25
Improving Safety and Operational Conditions at Railroad Crossings: An
Analysis of Bolt Installations, Designs and Torque Procedures
This project identifies, develops and tests procedures for reducing maintenance costs
and safety risks at railroad crossings as a function of the bolt and nut connections
currently employed.
RTI TRP 99-26
Beckley Exhibition Mine Expansion: Project Management and Evaluation
for a Transportation Enhancement Project to be Built along a National
Scenic Byway in W.Va.
This project provides project management assistance for a Southern W.Va. community to ensure environmental quality and logistical feasibility for a transportation
enhancement projects along the Coal Heritage Trail. The project also proposes a
model for other transportation enhancement projects that will be constructed along
this National Scenic Byway related to matching funds determinations and project
29
selection processes.
RTI TRP 99-27
Using FLI-MAP Technology for Transportation Applications: Research
Initiation Demonstration Project
This project reviews how various states’ Departments of Transportation use FLI-MAP
software and identifies steps for the West Virginia Department of Transportation to
consider how to implement this technology in work completed by the West Virginia
Division of Highways.
RTI TRP 99-29
Development of a Plan for a Non-Motorized Transportation Corridor
in Southern W.Va.: Case Study for Alternate Sources of Transportation
between Huntington and Charleston
This project explores the possibility of developing a “greenway,” or non-motorized
transportation corridor, between Charleston and Huntington, W.Va. The proposed
greenway will contain natural, open space, bikeways and walking or jogging
paths.
RTI TRP 99-32
Development of a GIS Implementation Strategy for WVDOT
This project reviews the uses of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software
by various Departments of Transportation and identifies steps for the WVDOT to
consider for GIS implementation.
RTI TRP 99-33
Major Corridor Financing Options
This project identifies options used in the United States to finance major highway
corridor construction and assesses their applicability in W.Va. The study provides
the most cost effective plan to help acquire critically needed improvements in the
transportation infrastructure of some of the most rural and economically depressed
regions in W.Va. and is applicable to similar regions in the U.S.
RTI TRP 00-01
Integrated Track Stability Assessment and Monitoring System (ITSAMS): Phase
II
This project has two objectives. The first objective is to continue the development of a remote sensing technology that will rapidly assess the integrity of various track structure and
substructure layers, such as the ballast, sub-ballast and subgrade, and to locate, identify and
quantify weak track segments. The second objective is to continue the development of a new
technology for the real-time measurement of vertical track deflection, based on the use of the
laser interferometer.
RTI TRP 00-02
Land Use Planning Adjacent to Transportation Corridors in WV: A Regional Approach for Six Counties in Southern WV.
This project seeks to assist in developing long-term land use policies with utiliza30
RTI TRP 00-04
Expected Flood Damages to Transportation Infrastructures as a Proportion of Total Event Costs: A Methodological Exploration
This project is designed to better estimate flood-related transportation infrastructure
damages in the Tennessee Valley as a proportion of total event costs. Overall, the
project seeks to improve a priori flood damage assessment, improving the estimation of transportation infrastructure damages as a proportion of total event costs.
RTI TRP 00-05
Integrated Track Stability Assessment and Monitoring System (ITSAMS):
Phase III
This project continues to develop remote sensing technologies that can be
integrated and deployed in a mobile inspection vehicle i.e. Integrated Track
Stability Assessment and Monitoring System (ITSAMS).
RTI TRP 00-06
Transportation and Market Feasibility Analysis for Innovative Coal
Combustion By-products to be Manufactured Adjacent to the I-64
High Tech Corridor in Southern W.Va.
This project determines the transportation challenges and costs for the successful
marketing of a coal combustion product proposed for manufacturing adjacent
to the newly designated high technology corridor in Southern W.Va. (Rainelle,
Greenbrier County).
RTI TRP 00-07
Opportunities to Improve Transportation Efficiencies through Enhanced
Intermodal Capabilities and Increased Utilization of the Appalachian
Development Highway System.
This project is a multi-phased intermodal freight transport study that identifies
strategic opportunities for enhancing the efficiency of intermodal transportation
within Appalachia.
RTI TRP 00-08
Development of a Research Protocol that Relates Culvert Structure
to Fish Migration in Southern W.Va.
This project enables the WVDOH to efficiently choose type and site of future
culverts, identify watersheds most likely to be adversely impacted by culvert
construction and choose cost-effective ways to remediate culverts that are
problematic to fish migration.
RTI TTP 00-10
Improving Transportation Access to Rural Health Care in Lincoln
County: Process Implementation
This project’s objective is to directly implement the results of a previous RTI
research project (TRP 99-16) that designed solutions to improving access
to health care for the elderly, disabled, chronically ill and poor citizens of a
rural W.Va. county through a coordinated effort between health care providers and the public transportation system.
31
tion criteria based upon proximity to the current and proposed regional transportation systems.
RTI TTP 00-11
Development of a Transportation and Economic Development Information System for the State of West Virginia (TEDIS-WV) Delivered Over
the Internet
This project seeks to design, develop and test a system for delivering important
transportation and economic development information using GIS technology via
the Internet for users including governmental agencies and the general public.
RTI TTP 00-12
A Deployment Plan for the W.Va. High Technology Corridor
This project seeks to support the direct implementation of expanding the “High
Tech Corridor” designation for the Southeastern Virginia portion of I-64 into
West Virginia between Beckley and White Sulpher Springs.
TTP 00-14
GIS of Major Transportation Corridors along the Kanawha River in
West Virginia and along the Ohio River
In this project, RTI provides GIS coverage, including major transportation corridors, for the Kanawha River and portions of the Ohio River. RTI also links some
ORSANCO data to exsiting coverages. This work supports a second grant that will
collect data on fish utilization of bridge abuttments and other transportation-related
structures near the Kanawha River and the Robert C. Byrd pool of the Ohio River.
A series of ORSANCO Data will be linked to these coverages.
RTI TTP 00-15
Harrison, Mingo and Webster County Tax Map Conversion
This project digitizes current maps of Harrison , Mingo and Webster Counties
using GIS software. This process will represent a valuable layer of data for future
transportation planning.
RTI TTP 00-17
Development and Evaluation of a GIS Mapping System for West Virginia’s
Hatfield-McCoy Trail System
The project deploys GIS technology into the Hatfield-McCoy trail system’s operations and trains employees in using the GIS technology for current and new trail
mapping applications. RTI assists in creating a database for the trails system and
designs a means to disseminate the trail system to the general public through a
web-based Geographic Information System.
RTI TTP 00-XX
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Appalachian Development Highway
System (ADHS) Corridors
This project provides a more accurate digital map inventory of the ADHS corridors
for transportation and economic development
Appalachia.
TTP issues
00-31inMississippi
TTP 00-32 Pennsylvania
TTP 00-18 West Virginia
TTP 00-34 Ohio
TTP 00-19 Tennessee
TTP 00-35 New York
32
TTP
TTP
TTP
TTP
00-22 Alabama
00-24 Maryland
00-27 Kentucky
00-28 North Carolina
TTP
TTP
00-37 Georgia
00-38 South Carolina
RTI TTP 00-21
Three-Dimensional Laser Scanner Pilot Project
Primarily, this project seeks to determine the feasibility of utilizing 3-D laser scanned
data for identification and enhancement of geological features. This is accomplished
by comparing the scanned data to an independent geological interpretation.
TTP 03-01
Development of a Transportation and Economic Development Information System (TEDIS) Delivered Over the Internet for WV-Phase II
The objective of this project is to design, build and load a computer system with data
that will be acquired through a comprehensive aerial survey of WV conducted by
the Statewide Addressing and Mapping Board. The computer system will be used
to assist the Statewide Addressing and Mapping Boards’ efforts to eliminate rural
addresses in WV and will be used by the Rahall Transportation Institute to expand
and improve a statewide transportation and economic development information
system using web based geographical information system technology.
TTP 05-01
Phase II - Enhanced GIS Mapping Systems for the Appalachian Regional
Commission’s Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
To make additional enhancements to the existing ADHS GIS that creates better
geospatial tools specifically designed to analysis and query specific questions from
the Cost to Complete Estimate. These applications will be design from suggestions
made from multiple workgroups conducted last year during the completion of phase
I, for each of the 13 ARC states. Completion of this phase will provide most of the
tools needed to maintain and update a standalone ADHS GIS.
TRP 05-09
Improving the Competitive Position of Appalachia’s Wood Product Producers through Enhanced Transportation Alternatives
This project’s objective is to explore transportation options that might be available
to the region’s lumber and wood products manufacturers that will enable them to
reduce their product transportation costs and extend their market reach.
RTI TTP 06-01
Phase III - Enhance GIS Mapping System for the Appalachian Regional
Commission’s Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Phase III will move the Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS) GIS
system to a production environment and make modifications that will allow it to be
utilized for the 2007 Cost to Complete Estimate. This phase will build on the two
previous phases to create improved and additional functions to the system that will
improve efficiency for conducting 2007 ADHS Cost to Complete Estimate.
33
RTI TRP 07-01
Operate/Maintain Data Warehouse
The objective of this project is to complete the Linear Referencing for the WVDOT
road system as well as an information portal designed to distribute the information
over the Web. This will provide more accurate digital map inventory for transportation and economic development issues. The project will entail taking the straight
line diagrams provided by the WVDOT and an existing un-attributed disconnected
road layer and creating a contiguous linear referenced centerline road network.
Additionally a information distribution portal and its various applications will be
developed.
34
ANNU-
REPORT
2006-2007
TECHNOLOGY
TRANSFER
35
Technology Transfer Goal:
Availability of research results to potential users in a form that can
be directly implemented, utilized or otherwise applied. A variety of technology transfer mechanisms will be used to distribute the findings of the
Institute.
These will include, but may not be limited to: research papers, technical
reports, a quarterly newsletter, workshops, seminars and a website.
In addition to research papers, technical reports and conference proceedings, RTI maintains a website to promote programmatic activities and
to archive and disseminate research results. RTI also sponsors workshops
and seminars to promote the transfer of transportation technology and
information from experts in the field to practicing transportation profes-
PEER REVIEW PAPERS AND TECHNICAL REPORTS AS A RESULT OF
UTC FUNDING -- Year 8
Papers Presented or Published
Anthony B. Szwilski, Brad Kerchof (Norfolk Southern), Richard Begley, John Tomlin (NS), et al, “Rapid
Surveying of a Classification Yard Employing High Accuracy DGPS (RTK)” American Railway Engineers
(AREMA) Conference, Chicago (September 2005).
36
Technology Transfer Activities
Transportation professional development courses, transportation seminar series, workshops and conferences allow practitioners, UTC researchers and students to hear from experts in the field, network with others
and identify new resources while earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs).
Conferences
•
6th Annual Technical Forum, Geohazards in Transportation in the Appalachian Region, August 1-2, 2007, Asheville, N.C.
Geohazards in Transportation in the Appalachian Region Technical Forum took place in Asheville, N.C.,
at the Haywood Park Hotel, August 1-2, 2007. There
were 119 people attending from states including: Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina, Virginia,
Georgia, Pennsylvania, Colorado, South Carolina,
New York, Wisconsin, Tennessee and Utah.
Barbara Roberts, RTI Program Coordinator, Sr.,
was one of the coordinators for the conference. Roberts
said attendee’s comments about the conference were
positive, and they stated content was on target with
their needs.
Approximately eight sessions were presented during the two-day forum. Some of this year’s topics were:
Geotechnical Case Studies of North Carolina; Landslides: Present & Future; Cost Benefits of Geoscience Information; Economic Impact of Geological Hazards; Geological Mapping: Targeting Geological Hazards in
Transportation; Innovations in Real-Time Monitoring for Geohazards; Karst and Mine Subsidence Hazards in
Transportation; Rock Slope Problems and Stabilization.
•
OHV Program Managers & NOHVCC Annual Conference, March 30, 2007,
Charleston, W.Va.
Trails Specialist Bryan Helmer and Research Associate Theresa Litteral presented information about
RTI’s trail-related projects to more than 200 trail professionals and enthusiasts
during a plenary session at the 2007 National Association of OHV Program
Managers and NOHVCC Annual Conference.
Helmer and Litteral’s presentation took place Friday, March 30, 2007,
in Charleston, W.Va. During their presentation, they discussed RTI’s work with
creating maps for the Hatfield-McCoy Trails System, new trail contracting
projects with the Raleigh County Commission, GIS Training for the WVDOT,
Share the Road Program, TIPS activities, West Virginia State Trails Highway
Project and OHV Management graduate/undergraduate courses in cooperation
with Marshall University.
•
Eastern Region Federal/State Highway-Rail Crossing Conference, Oct. 31Nov. 1, 2006, Martinsburg, W.Va.
The Eastern Region Federal/State Highway-Rail Crossing Conference was conducted Oct. 31-Nov. 1,
2006, at the Holiday Inn in Martinsburg, W.Va. The annual conference was hosted by the Railroads and Utilities
Unit Technical Section— Engineering Division of the W.Va. Dept. of Transportation Division of Highways.
Content experts provided legislative and industry updates. State reports on crossing programs in Connecticut,
Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia were reviewed. The potential impact of hot
37
button issues was considered. John Ball, P.E., RTI research associate, discussed “Workforce Issues/USDOT
University Transportation Centers.”
“RTI is working in tandem with WV DOT DOH to develop and deliver cost-effective professional
development workshops and seminars that will advance transportation safety, services and technologies. The
urgency to recruit manpower and close gaps in workforce skills and competencies is apparent in both the DOTs
and the Class 1 railroads. The rapidly changing global environment presents challenges and opportunities to
train a different type of workforce by different means,” Ball said.
•
12th Annual Emergency Responders Conference, Sept. 25-27, 20006,
Charleston, W.Va.
On September 25-27, 2006, the Charleston Marriot hosted the 12th annual Emergency Responders Conference, which was geared towards Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) and the State Emergency
Response Commission (SERC). Over the course of three days, the emergency responders in attendance went
through a series of different sessions that dealt with
scenarios in which they would be called upon. Some
of those sessions included things like mine rescue,
hazmat, school safety and pandemic flu.
RTI representatives attended the conference to distribute information to attendees on Operation Respond and Operation Lifesaver. Operation Respond Institute is a not-for-profit corporation which is designed
to protect the safety of first responders in emergency situations that involve hazardous materials by allowing
them to quickly access information via the Internet concerning hazardous materials being carried by truck,
rail or river. Operation Respond works closely with the Federal Government, transportation carriers and the
emergency response community to develop real-world solutions for emergency responders.
38
Transportation Professional Development Courses
•
Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT), May 30, 2007, Beckley, W.Va.
Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT) took place in Beckley, W.Va., with 45 participants. Truck drivers,
dispatchers, trucking company owners and representatives from professional trucking organizations, received certificates of attendance for the free training. The two-hour training was made possible by RTI and the Public Service
Commission of West Virginia. Instructors were: John Ball, RTI research associate; Reggie Bunner, Jon Cline, Scott
Morton and Robin Swiney, all from the Transportation Enforcement Division of the Public Service Commission of
West Virginia. During training, topics that were addressed included: 21st Century Transportation and Transportation
Workforce Issues, Definition of Commercial Motor Vehicles, Definition of Inter-State and Intra-State Commerce,
Definition of Private Carrier, Definition of For-Hire Carrier, Hours-of-Service, CDL Requirements, Types of CDLs,
Driver Qualifications, Seat-Belt Enforcement Initiative, Share-the-Road PSA for Schools, SAFE 07 and Highway
Watch Program, and Driver/Carrier Education and Training Opportunities.
•
NHI Course #139001, Integrating Freight in the Transportation Planning
Process, May 30-31, 2007, Charleston, W.Va.
Twenty-nine transportation planners and freight transportation planners completed NHI Course #139001, “Integrating Freight in the Transportation Planning Process,” May 30-31, 2007. The purpose of the course was to provide
a greater understanding of freight trends, its stakeholders and its issues, so that public-sector transportation planners are
better able to incorporate freight into their respective transportation planning processes and programs.
Participants were from the West Virginia Department of Highways and Federal Highway Administration
personnel, by contract with the West Virginia Department of Transportation. The course took place at the West
Virginia Department of Highways headquarters in Charleston, W.Va. David Hunt and Jim Brogan instructed the
course, and RTI’s Barbara Roberts was the local coordinator. Upon completion of the course, participants were
able to: identify the stakeholders involved in freight transportation; explain the role of different modes in freight
transportation; describe some trends affecting freight transportation, and their impact on a State’s transportation
system and communities; discuss some of the common issues that prevent freight from being fully incorporated
in the planning process; and identify key resources to help guide statewide and metropolitan freight planning efforts.
•
49 CFR 214 Subpart C. Roadway Worker Protection Training, May 24, 2007,
Charleston, W.Va.
On May 24, 2007, thirteen transportation professionals from the West Virginia Division of Highways participated in FRA Part 214 Railroad Workplace Safety roadway worker training.
Training focused on Subpart A, which consists of general information including the purpose and scope,
applications, preemptive effect, responsibility for compliance and definitions. The purpose of this training is to
prevent accidents and casualties to employees involved in certain railroad inspection, maintenance and construction activities. This part prescribes minimum Federal safety standards for the railroad workplace safety subjects
addressed herein. This part does not restrict a railroad or railroad contractor from adopting and enforcing additional
or more stringent requirements not inconsistent with this part.
Training took place in Charleston, W.Va., at the Division of Highways Headquarters Building. Individuals
who completed the training received a 214 Card, which is valid for one year.
•
GIS Utility Training, May 22-24, 2007
Research associates Juan Barrios, Chandra Inglis-Smith and Sang Yoo were instructors during a GIS Utility
Training session May 22-24, 2007. The course accommodated 25 participants and took place from 8:30 a.m. to 4
p.m. at Marshall University Graduate College in South Charleston, W.Va.
•
GIS Utility Training, May 15-17, 2007
Research associates Juan Barrios, Chandra Inglis-Smith
and Sang Yoo were instructors during a GIS Utility
39
Training session May 15-17, 2007. The course accommodated 25 participants and took place from 8:30 a.m. to 4
p.m. at Marshall University Graduate College in South Charleston, W.Va.
•
Basic GPS Training with the WVDOT, May 10-11, 2007, South Charleston,
W.Va.
Geographic Positioning System (GPS) units are everywhere, in our fishing boats, in our ATV’s and in our
cars. Viewing the technology is great. To be a user of the technology requires deeper skill sets. Grasping the basic
underlying knowledge and skills of latitude, longitude, data collection and correction is the first level of learning.
Being able to apply the skills in the field is the second level necessary before GPS will affect the way transportation
workers perform their jobs.
RTI delivered a basic GPS course for 18 WVDOT professionals, May 10-11, 2007 at Marshall University
Graduate College in South Charleston. Sang Yoo was the lead instructor with assistance from Research Associates
Pete Daily, Chandra Inglis-Smith and Alejandro Sanchez.
Students initially learned to collect field data points by hand and then progressed to collecting data using
sophisticated GPS receivers. Students were given related skills and knowledge of the elements of a Cartesian coordinate system: how to convert the data into decimals, how to correct GPS data using differential correction degree,
how to design a data dictionary and how to import data into ArcGIS to prepare maps.
Participant’s evaluations reflected large gains in new learning and a belief held by more than 70% of the
class that the skills will change the way they perform their jobs. An applied version of the GPS training is scheduled
for WVDOT utility workers in the Fall of 2007.
•
Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT), May 10, 2007, Wheeling, W.Va.
Seventy individuals from the trucking industry participated in Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT)
May 10, 2007, at Wheeling, W.Va. Truck drivers, dispatchers, trucking company owners and representatives from
professional trucking organizations, received certificates of attendance for the free training. The two-hour training
was made possible by RTI and the Public Service Commission of West Virginia. Instructors were: John Ball, RTI
research associate; Reggie Bunner, Jon Cline, Scott Morton and Robin Swiney, all from the Transportation Enforcement Division of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia.
During training, topics that were addressed included: 21st Century Transportation and Transportation
Workforce Issues, Definition of Commercial Motor Vehicles, Definition of Inter-State and Intra-State Commerce,
Definition of Private Carrier, Definition of For-Hire Carrier, Hours-of- Service, CDL Requirements, Types of CDLs,
Driver Qualifications, Seat-Belt Enforcement Initiative, Share-the- Road PSA for Schools, SAFE 07 and Highway
Watch Program, and Driver/Carrier Education and Training Opportunities.
•
Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT), April 27, 2007, Martinsburg,
W.Va.
Sixty-seven individuals from the trucking industry participated in Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT)
April 27, 2007, at Martinsburg, W.Va. Truck drivers, dispatchers, trucking company owners and representatives
from professional trucking organizations, received certificates of attendance for the free training. The two-hour
training was made possible by RTI and the Public Service Commission of West Virginia. Instructors were: John
Ball, RTI research associate; Reggie Bunner, Jon Cline, Scott Morton and Robin Swiney, all from the Transportation Enforcement Division of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia.
During training, topics that were addressed included: 21st Century Transportation and Transportation
Workforce Issues, Definition of Commercial Motor Vehicles, Definition of Inter-State and Intra-State Commerce,
Definition of Private Carrier, Definition of For-Hire Carrier, Hours-of- Service, CDL Requirements, Types of CDLs,
Driver Qualifications, Seat-Belt Enforcement Initiative, Share-the- Road PSA for Schools, SAFE 07 and Highway
Watch Program, and Driver/Carrier Education and Training Opportunities.
•
GIS Level III Training for the WVDOT, April 18-19, 2007, Charleston, W.Va.
RTI recently finished Level 3 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training with West Virginia De40
partment of Transportation employees. The course was instructed by research associates Chandra Inglis-Smith
and Sang Yoo. The Level 3 course is an advanced course proceeded by Level 1 and 2 training. Diana Long, transportation workforce development coordinator, said Level 3 is a “capstone experience, where participants are put
into a situation where they have to find specific data, decide a strategy and produce a report. They had to apply the
knowledge to a specific set of data, more than just demonstrate step by step skills.”
Long said Level 3 training simulated skills the DOT employees use on the job. “They will use their skills to
produce accurate maps and reports to communicate to other agencies and the public. The layering of information enables
alternatives and scenarios to be generated quickly and accurately. This results in best case solutions for transportation
problems at a much quicker rate and more comprehensive planning and monitoring.”
Individuals who completed the courses received a certificate of 1 Continuing Education Unit issued by
Marshall Community and Technical College.
•
NHI Course #134001, Principles of Writing Highway Construction Specifications, April 10-11, 2007, Charleston, W.Va.
Twenty-seven transportation planners and freight transportation planners completed NHI Course #134001,
“Principles of Writing Highway Construction Specifications,” April 10-11, 2007.
Participants were from the West Virginia Department of Highways and Federal Highway Administration
personnel, by contract with the West Virginia Department of Transportation. The course took place at the West
Virginia Department of Highways headquarters in Charleston, W.Va. Geoffrey Page and Bryce Nahas instructed
the course, and RTI’s Barbara Roberts was the local coordinator. This course addressed the engineering and legal
aspects and linguistics of writing specifications. It also addresses issues of how to draft new specifications or rewrite
existing ones in clear, readable, and definitive statements of contract requirements. Classroom activities included
lectures, case studies, workshops and writing assignments.
Upon completion of the course, participants were able to: recognize and apply the principles of writing
clear, concise, complete, and technically correct specifications; write specifications in the active voice imperative
mood; write specifications without ambiguities and with measurable standards; describe the difference between
traditional methods specifications and statistically based quality assurance specifications; identify newer types of
procurement and contracting methods; and demonstrate appreciation for the importance of specifications for highway construction contracting.
•
GIS Level III Training for the WVDOT, March 7-8, 2007
RTI recently finished Level 3 Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Training with West Virginia Department of Transportation employees. The course was instructed by research associates Chandra Inglis-Smith
and Sanghong Yoo. The Level 3 course is an advance course proceeded by Level 1 and 2 training. Diana Long,
transportation workforce development coordinator, said Level 3 is a “capstone experience, where participants are
put into a situation where they have to find specific data, decide a strategy and produce a report. They had to apply
the knowledge to a specific set of data, more than just demonstrate step by step skills.”
Long said Level 3 training simulated skills the DOT employees use on the job. “They will use their skills to
produce accurate maps and reports to communicate to other agencies and the public. The layering of information enables
alternatives and scenarios to be generated quickly and accurately. This results in best case solutions for transportation
problems at a much quicker rate and more comprehensive planning and monitoring.”
Individuals who completed the courses received a certificate of 1 Continuing Education Unit issued by
Marshall Community and Technical College.
•
Truck Driver Awareness Training (TDAT), March 8, 2007, Huntington,
W.Va.
Twenty-seven individuals from the trucking industry participated in Truck Driver Awareness Training
(TDAT) Thursday, March 8, 2007, at Marshall University’s Huntington campus. Truck drivers, dispatchers, trucking
company owners and representatives from professional trucking organizations, received certificates of attendance
for the free training. The two-hour training was made possible by RTI and the Public Service Commission of West
41
Virginia. Instructors were: John Ball, RTI research associate; Reggie Bunner, Jon Cline, Scott Morton and Robin
Swiney, all from the Transportation Enforcement Division of the Public Service Commission of West Virginia.
During training, topics that were addressed included: 21st Century Transportation and Transportation
Workforce Issues, Definition of Commercial Motor Vehicles, Definition of Inter-State and Intra-State Commerce,
Definition of Private Carrier, Definition of For-Hire Carrier, Hours-of- Service, CDL Requirements, Types of CDLs,
Driver Qualifications, Seat-Belt Enforcement Initiative, Share-the- Road PSA for Schools, SAFE 07 and Highway
Watch Program, and Driver/Carrier Education and Training Opportunities.
•
GIS Level II Training for the WVDOT, Feb. 8-9, 2007
In order to help implement a statewide Geographic Information System with the West Virginia Department
of Transportation, employees must be able to match software capabilities with needs, match equipment with function, design training to target specific skills and plan for the next technological wave. The course was instructed
by RTI research associates Chandra Inglis-Smith and Sang Yoo, who were assisted by graduate research assistants
Maria Simental, Brandi Yalniz and Staci Denovchik.
Level II training was advanced training for those responsible for creating and manipulating data. Seventy
participants from the first level completed Level II and forty of those were selected for Level III.
•
GIS Level II Training for the WVDOT, Feb. 6-7, 2007
In order to help implement a statewide Geographic Information System with the West Virginia Department
of Transportation, employees must be able to match software capabilities with needs, match equipment with function, design training to target specific skills and plan for the next technological wave. The course was instructed by
RTI research associates Chandra Inglis-Smith and Sanghong Yoo, who were assisted by graduate research assistants
Maria Simental, Brandi Yalniz and Staci Denovchik.
Level II training was advanced training for those responsible for creating and manipulating data. Seventy
participants from the first level completed Level II and forty of those were selected for Level III.
•
GIS Level I Training for the WVDOT, Jan. 31 - Feb. 1, 2007
In order to help implement a statewide Geographic Information System with the West Virginia Department of Transportation, employees must be able to match software capabilities with needs, match equipment with
function, design training to target specific skills and plan for the next technological wave. Level 1 training was
for employees with job classifications that require a general understanding of the basic concepts underlying a GIS
system. The Level I course provided the participants with skills to navigate ESRI software, ArcGIS Desktop applications including ArcMap, ArcCatalog and ArcToolbox. They also learned to use the basics of the software to
produce maps and reports.
•
GIS Level I Training for the WVDOT, Jan. 16-17, 2007
In order to help implement a statewide Geographic Information System with the West Virginia Department of Transportation, employees must be able to match software capabilities with needs, match equipment with
function, design training to target specific skills and plan for the next technological wave. Level 1 training was
for employees with job classifications that require a general understanding of the basic concepts underlying a GIS
system. The Level I course provided the participants with skills to navigate ESRI software, ArcGIS Desktop applications including ArcMap, ArcCatalog and ArcToolbox. They also learned to use the basics of the software to
produce maps and reports.
•
2-Day Pass Training, Nov. 15-16, 2006, Huntington, W.Va.
RTI and the W.Va. Division of Public Transit (DPT) conducted four PASS training sessions in 2006. The
PASS training ensures that drivers have current expertise in passenger assistance techniques plus sensitivity and
safety skills appropriate for serving persons with disabilities. Parkersburg, Morgantown, Huntington and Beckley
were selected based on access to the W.Va. highway system and proximity of facilities to urban and rural transpor-
42
tation providers.
Twenty transportation professionals attended the Two-Day PASS Driver Certification course Nov. 15-16
at the Raleigh County Community Action facility in Beckley. John Ball, P.E., RTI Research Associate and PASS
instructor explains, “Improved mobility for transportation- dependent populations, such as the elderly and disabled,
is a crucial concern. In rural areas, community transportation drivers must know how to safely and efficiently serve
passengers requiring mobility assistance. West Virginia has the third oldest population in the U.S., with a median
age of 40.7 and 15.3 % age 65 years and older. The continuing increase in ridership, due to population density
in general and elderly population in particular, demonstrates the vital need for paratransit and bus transportation.
Upgrading skills, sharing solutions and networking with peers enhance the quality of community transportation
services.”
•
NHI Course #135027, Urban Drainage Design, Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2006, Charles-
ton, W.Va.
From Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2006, NHI Course #135027, Urban Drainage Design, took place at the West Virginia
Department of Highways (DOH) in Charleston. Twenty-nine participants from the DOH and Federal Highway
Administration earned 18 Continuing Education Units for completing the course. The course provided an introduction
to urban roadway drainage design and design guidance for solving basic problems that are encountered in urban
roadway drainage design. Topics covered were hydrology, which included rational equations, soil conservation
methods, regression equations and synthetic hydrographs, and highway drainage, which included gutter flow,
roadway inlet interception, storm drainage systems, energy and hydraulic grade lines, detention ponds and stormwater
management.
Barbara Roberts, program coodinator, sr., said,”The staff of WVDOH and FHWA commented that the course
was a success to their professional development needs and were appreciative that they had the opportunity for the
training.” Upon completion of the course, participants were able to: determine runoff (peak flows and volumes)
from urban watershed, apply basic hydraulic principles to urban drainage design, perform roadway drainage design
using various roadway inlets, establish the energy and hydraulic grade lines for storm drains and design and/or
analyze detention basins.
•
FHWA-NHI-14104, Appraisal Review for Federal-Aid Highway Programs, Oct.
18, 2006
“Appraisal Review for Federal- Aid Highway Programs (FHWA-NHI-41044),” was a review course that
took place Oct. 18, 2006. This course focused on the applications of appraisal review principles and how they fit
within the Uniform Act and 49 CFR Part 24, as related to transportation project development. Focusing on larger
parcel, uneconomic remnants, cost to cure, and severance damages, the course discussed qualifications, roles and
responsibilities of the review appraiser from preto post-appraisal activities. Upon completion of that course, participants were able to: explain how and why the appraisal review is used in establishing just compensation; apply
federal-aid appraisal review requirements; apply appraisal review techniques to Federal aid-highway program,
including quality assurance, review changes, divergent values, valuation consistency, non-compensable items,
appraisal review report, property owner appraisals and appraisal updating; and describe the role of the review appraiser in the land acquisition process. For completing this course, participants were elig- ible for .6 Continuing
Education Units.
•
FHWA-NHI-14103, Appraisals for Federal-Aid Highway Programs, Instructor Led, Oct. 16-17, 2006
Appraisals for Federal-Aid Highway Programs, Instructor Led (FHWA-NHI-14103), was a two-day course
that took place Oct. 16-17, 2006. It helped transportation professionals understand and conform with the appraisal
requirements of the Uniform Act. When property owners are displaced from their homes, business or farms to
build public transportation programs using Federal funds, appraisers must follow guidelines set by the Uniform
Relocation Assistance and Real Properties Acquisition Policies Act (Uniform Act). The course was for experienced
appraisal personnel and focused on preparing, presenting and understanding appraisal reports in conformance with
the Uniform Act. Additionally, the course addressed the43appraiser‘s role in the overall project development pro-
Transportation Seminar Series - Year 8
•
Coal Mitigation, Prospects for Environmental and Economic Benefits Symposium, Huntington, W.Va., Oct. 14, 2006
On Saturday, Oct. 14, 2006, U.S. Rep. Nick. J. Rahall and RTI hosted a public symposium entitled, “Coal
Mine Mitigation: Prospects and Progress for Environmental and Economic Benefits,” at Marshall University.
During the symposium, representatives from economic development organizations, government regulatory
agencies, non-profits and industry met to explain West Virginia’s coal mitigation process and explore how
mitigation can improve communities.
Coal companies are required to ‘mitigate,’
or lessen the impact of coal mining on the environment, by state and federal governments. Mitigation
is usually achieved through the replacement or
restoration of affected aquatic resources and habitats, by monetary compensation paid to the state’s
Department of Environmental Protection to fund
stream restoration, by constructing or enlarging new
sewers or waterlines, or creating aquatic recreational
facilities.
Rahall said, “The rules governing coal
mining are constantly changing and need to be addressed often and in-depth by officials and citizens
alike to make sure mining communities get the maximum benefit. I want to see the money targeted back into
the counties in which mining occurred, and where there is possible harm, to help coalfield residents achieve
clean water.”
Rahall presented opening remarks, and RTI director Bob Plymale moderated the symposium. Panel
members included Ginger Mullins, Chief, Regulatory Branch, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Huntington
District; Randy Huffman, Deputy Secretary, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection; Jason
Bostic, Vice President, West Virginia Coal Association; Kasey Russell, Executive Director, West Virginia
Land & Mineral Owners Council; Terry Sammons, Esq., Chairman & Mike Whitt, Director, Mingo County
Redevelopment Authority; and Richard Mogensen, Director Mid-Atlantic Region, EarthMark Companies, on
behalf of National Mitigation Banking Association.
44
Other Year 8 Technology Transfer Activities
•
Norfolk Southern Excursion Train Safety Presentations, Aug. 1, 2007
On Wed., August 1, 2007, John Ball, Errin Jewell and LeAndria Reed were a part of a WVOL team who
presented safety information to approximately 106 passengers traveling by rail from Williamson to Kenova,
W.Va. and back. The trip, which was made possible by Norfolk Southern Corporation, was an educational
program to make the public aware of grade crossing safety. According to Norfolk Southern, the train ride “is an
opportunity to promote safety and make safest the communities through which Norfolk Southern travels.”
Rail industry workers, local government, economic development professionals, safety personnel and
other guests were invited by Norfolk Southern to ride in the two Powhatan Arrow passenger cars. During the
trip, large television monitors inside of each car displayed a live view of the railroad track as viewed from
the conductor’s seat. Riders were also made aware of the potential site of the Prichard Intermodal Facility in
Wayne County.
•
National Maritime Days Activities, May 13-18, 2007
“Roads, Rivers and Rails” was the theme of this year’s
National Transportation Week activities at RTI. National
Transportation Week officially took place May 13-19, 2007.
However, RTI began activities the preceeding week with
transportation career presentations to two local elementary schools
beginning May 11. The Heartland Corridor Working Group also met
during the week to discuss the development of the public-private
partnership and Prichard Intermodal facility.
The Port of Huntington’s 2nd National Maritime Days Celebration began May 18 with the Maritime Impact Awards ceremony.
Activities continued through the weekend with boat rides, deckhand demonstrations, more than 20 displays, commerical boat tours and other activities. This event provided
tri-state residents with an opportunity to join the many hard-working men and women of the local Maritime
Industry in celebrating National Maritime Days. Individuals were able to see how members of our community
live, work and play on the mighty Ohio River. Visitors could learn about the history of the Ohio River, tie a
knot, participate in deckhand activities and see what makes the Port of Huntington Tri-State the largest Inland
River Port in tonnage in America.
·
Trails Day at the Legislature, Jan. 17, 2007
On Jan. 17, 2007, approximately 22 organizations, which represent non-profits, research, education,
local government, industry and recreational groups, participated in “Trails Day at the Legislature.” During the
event, the organizations brought information and displays about their roles in the trail industry to the capitol
rotunda. The event was organized by Bill Robinson, state trails coordinator. He said the purpose of the event was
to “let our legislative representatives receive a good impression of the West Virginia Trails community.”
Bryan Helmer, trails specialist, represented RTI at “Trails Day,” where he provided visitors with information about RTI’s trail contracting activities, which consist of creating trail inventories, designing layouts
and guiding the construction of new trails. RTI’s trail-related research projects, such as TRP 99-11 “Maximizing Economic Benefits from A Rails to Trails Project in Southern WV - A Case Study of the Greenbrier River
Trail,” TRP 99-29 “Planning for the Development of A Greenway Between Huntington and Charleston-Research
Initiation Project” and TTP 00-17 “Development and Evaluation of a GIS Mapping System for West Virginia’s
Hatfield and McCoy Trail System.” Graduate and undergraduate courses in off-highway vehicle trail design and
management; and non-motorized vehicle safety activities for K-12 students were also highlighted.
45
Year 8 Newsletters
RTI publishes Transportation Focus, a quarterly
newsletter, to inform the transportation community of
research, educational programs, technology transfer activities and upcoming events at RTI. Researchers, professionals, government leaders, educators and students receive
Transportation Focus four times each year. The newsletter is available on RTI’s website, by
electronic mail, or by requesting that
RTI mail printed copies to them.
46
Since RTI’s inception, participants from the 40 states and Washington, D.C., which are indicated in red on
the following map, have attended RTI Transportation Professional Development Activities and Conferences.
Year 7 participants represented government agencies, private industries, students and academia as indicated
in the pie chart below.
2006-2007 Technology
Transfer Attendees:
Private Industry
Academia
Government
Students
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K-12 Outreach
Goal: To nurture a new generation of transportation professionals by introducing transportation issues during the school years and to encourage students to consider transportation-related
careers after graduation. K-12 Outreach activities include: Transportation Outreach on Wheels,
Transportation Outreach on the Web and other workshops and activities at Marshall University and
partner schools.
48
Since 2000, graduate and undergraduate education students from RTI’s
Transportation Outreach on Wheels (TO2W) program have traveled to schools,
libraries and civic organizations throughout Appalachia. During the 2006-2007
academic year and summer term, several thousand student contacts from kindergarten through high school at approximately 55 schools have benefitted from this
program’s activities. Workshops vary in length from one-half a day to five days.
Students who have participated in RTI’s Transportation Outreach on Wheels have
come from many states. These include: West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia,
New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana and Montana. More specifically, the program
has benefitted students from the following West Virginia counties:
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Berkeley
Boone
Braxton
Cabell
Calhoun
Clay
Fayette
Gilmer
Grant
Greenbrier
Hampshire
Hancock
Hardy
Harrison
Jackson
Jefferson
Kanawha
Lincoln
Logan
Marshall
Mason
Mercer
McDowell
Mineral
Mingo
Monongalia
Monroe
Nicholas
Ohio
Pendleton
Pleasants
Pocahontas
Preston
Putnam
Randolph
Raleigh
Ritchie
Roane
Summers
Taylor
Tucker
Wayne
Webster
Wetzel
Wood
Wyoming
LEGO DUPLO WORKSHOPS
RTI instructors use LEGO DUPLO blocks to introduce basic transportation concepts to Pre-K through
third grade students during workshops and other activities.
Younger students (ages 3-5) learn to assemble vehicles, tracks and cargo carriers from pictorial charts
and LEGO DUPLO blocks. After creating railroad or highway systems, students move “cargo” from one location while factoring time, distance and weight into the transportation process.
Older students (ages 5-8) receive transportation-related “story challenges,” which must be solved using
LEGO DUPLO blocks. The students use LEGO CAD to design vehicles or simple machines, which contain
gears, levers or pulleys, to solve the “story challenges.”
50
Intelligent Transportation Systems
with LEGO Robotics Workshops
Middle school students learn to assemble and
program intelligent vehicles and automated traffic control and monitoring devices at workshops sponsored by
RTI.
Pre-service teachers and graduate assistants
from Marshall University guide students in assembling
vehicles and traffic control components from LEGO
DACTA kits and installing RCX microcomputers, light
sensors, digital timing devices and motors.
Using ROBOLAB software, middle school students write computer programs and download them to
the RCX equipped vehicles and traffic control devices,
which include cars, gates, signals and speed measuring
devices.
High school students also explore careers in
automobile assembly, engineering, manufacturing,
computer programming, education, transportation and
robotics, while learning the basics of LEGO CAD,
ROBOLAB and RCX programming. The students are
also exposed to Transportation Outreach on the Web.
51
West Point Bridge Design Contest
West Virginia Winners Circle:
1st Place High School & Overall:
Olivia Milam & Kattie Riggs (Pikeview High School)
2nd Place High School & Overall: Lincoln Shaefer & Evan Ford
(Brooke High School)
3rd Place High School:
James Fuller (Greenbrier High School)
1st Place Middle School & 3rd Overall: Jeff Cowen & Chris Wanstreet
(Ritchie County Middle School)
2nd Place Middle School:
Blaine Willis & Seth Wells (Ritchie
County Middle School)
3rd Place Middle School:
Jared Shipe & Mark Britton
(Ritchie County Middle School)
2007 Outstanding Participating
Volunteers:
Jimmy Wriston & Joe Carte (WVDOT)
& Katrina Andrews (Ritchie County
Middle School)
Two students from Pikeview High School, Olivia Milam and
Kattie Riggs, received First Place High School and Overall Honors at
the 2007 West Virginia Statewide West Point Bridge Design Competition. Fifteen design teams competed at the state level to design, within
a two-hour time frame, the least expensive bridge that would sustain
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials
(AASHTO) load conditions.
RTI and the West Virginia Department of Transportation are
primary sponsors of the state event, which is open to all middle and high school students in West Virginia free
of charge. The national contest is sponsored by the American Society of Civil Engineers and administered by
the West Point Military Academy.
The contest, which is an annual outreach activity for the West Virginia American Society of Civil
Engineers Young Members Forum, is a nationwide, web-based competition that promotes math, science and
technology education to students from age 13 and up to grade 12. The 2007 competition began in the fall of
2006, when working engineers contacted each of the state’s 625 high schools and middle schools. Three hundred teams registered for the state competition, but only 250 uploaded successful designs during the January/
April 2007 qualifying round. The 2007 statewide competition took place at the Clay Center for the Arts and
Sciences in Charleston, April 27-28, 2007. In addition to the high school teams that competed, 2007 was the
first year that five middle school teams participated.
More than 70 civil engineers and engineering majors from across the state volunteered
to visit classrooms and demonstrate the bridge design software and promote the field
of civil engineering as a career. Research Associate John Ball, P.E., represented
RTI as a mentor and liaison for the contest.
For more information about this years contest, visit bridgecontest.usma.
edu or contact the 2007 WV Contest Coordinator, Jerry Elkins, PE at jelkins@
trcsolutions.com or by calling 304-346-2599.
52
Exploring Engineering Academy of
Excellence
The 2007 Exploring Engineering: Academy
of Excellence camp took place on Marshall University’s campus from June 17-22. Students arrived Sunday,
June 17, to check into the dorms, take campus tours, hear a welcome message from Stuart Harshbarger, from
Johns Hopkins University, and take time to get to know one another.
Monday morning started bright and early at 8 a.m. with an introduction to CAD/CAM design, which
aided students in the construction of CO2 racers, a project which would be ongoing through the entire week.
Students were also introduced to civil and environmental engineering, along with highlights on surveying,
GPS and Environmental Sampling.
On Tuesday, students worked on a trebuchet design, a project that was a favorite to student Adam
Martin, an upcoming junior at Elkins High School. “I like building stuff that is hands-on,” stated Martin, who
is interested in a career in mechanical engineering. The trebuchet design resulted in a competition Tuesday,
and throughout the rest of the week students were involved in other activities. LEGO Robotics, and design
and construction of a robot took place Wednesday, while Thursday consisted of field trips to the Toyota Plant
in Buffalo, W.Va., tour of the Memorial Tunnel, and a trip to Columbia Gas followed by a GIS Presentation
and discussion by Alejandro Sanchez and Pete Dailey of the Rahall Transportation Institute. The presentation
focused on how infrared cameras are used with GIS technology along with how GIS helps aid transportation
systems. Finally, after lectures and presentations, students got to hang up the textbook discussions when they
went to a picnic/pool party at Water Ways, in Boone Co. W.Va.
Friday wrapped up with the much anticipated CO2 races, which student Jessica Lundy, an upcoming
junior at Fairland High School in Proctorville, OH, said she had been looking forward to all week. “I can’t wait
to see how it goes,” said Lundy, “it’s been my favorite project.” Jessica found out about EEAE camp through
Engineering Day which took place at Marshall University, and is interested in a career in civil engineering.
Before going home, students, parents and sponsors were invited to an awards luncheon where students received
certificates and were recognized for their hard work. Sponsors were also recognized for making EEAE camp
possible.
One individual who has helped make EEAE camp possible is David Meadows, who has been with
the camp for 7 years. He is a civil engineer and his camp duties include working with students on surveying
and the trebuchet project. “We make improvements every year,” stated Meadows. “We try to add new stuff
to make the camp challenging and individual engineers who commit time and money to promote engineering
as a career to high school students. For more information on Exploring Engineering: Academy of Excellence
please visit www.marshall.edu/eeae.
53
West Virginia Operation Lifesaver
(WVOL) Presentations & Events
RTI teams with West Virginia Operation Lifesaver (WVOL) several times each month to stress the importance
of rail grade crossing safety to students, educators and adults in our region.These events primarily consist of classroom
visits, which consist of a video presentation, discussion and distribution of literature, which are tailored to specific age
groups. During the 2006 annual WVOL board meeting, which took palce at RTI in December, WVOL Director John
Perry said nearly 500 presentations or activities reached more than 180,000 contacts in 2006; many of these contacts
were made possible by volunteers and support from RTI. Presentations and events include:
State Fair of West Virginia
From Aug. 10-10, 2007, WVOL hosted an informational booth at the State Fair of West Virginia in Fairlea. John
Ball, Kimberley Baker, Errin Jewell and Kate Jordan each assisted at the booth for two shifts. Approximately 700,000
tickets were sold during this year’s fair, and the WVOL booth provided visitors with railroad safety information. Presentations were scheduled with local educators, who requested WVOL visit their classrooms, workplaces or other venues
to enforce the importance of rail grade crossing safety.
Wayne County Library Summer Reading Program
As part of the Wayne County Library’s Summer Reading Program, RTI presented approximately 30 students and
12 parents with rail crossing safety information. On Thursday, July 19, 2007, LeAndria Reed and Errin Jewell showed
summer reading program participants an informational video and gave them literature and pencils to enforce WVOL’s
“Stay Off, Stay Away, Stay Alive” message. Representatives from the Kenova Fire Department were also present to
inform participants about fire safety.
West Virginia Boy Scout Jamboree
WVOL offered presentations to students at the annual Fourth Grade Day at the Camp Virgil Tate 4-H camp April
23-26, in Ripley, W.Va. to fourth grade students from Jackson and Mason Counties.
Fourth Grade Day at State 4-H Camp
This event took place in Barboursville, W.Va., April 20-21, where hundreds of boy scouts received safety information.
Health & Safety Fairs at Local Schools
RTI volunteers presented WVOL information at schools including: Wayne Middle School and Wayne High
School, April 18, 2007; Cox Landing Elementary, May 23, 2007; Kellogg Elementary, May 24, 2007.
New River Excursion Train and Bridge Day
On the New River Excursion Train, presenters stressed safety precautions one should take around trains to adult and
student train enthusiasts. The Collis P. Huntington Railroad Historical Society sponsors the excursion train, which boards
in Huntington, travels to St. Albans, where it again boards, and then stops in Hinton, where tourist and train enthusiasts
disembarked to enjoy Railroad Day. Bridge Day, which takes place annually on the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette
County, attacted nearly 200,000 spectators. WVOL informed children and adults alike of the importance of train safety.
From RTI, Reed represented WVOL at this year’s Bridge Day. These events took place Oct. 21-22, 2006.
West Virginia Pumpkin Festival
The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival took place in Milton, Oct. 5-8, 2006, and attracted visitors from West Virginia
and neighboring states. RTI’s Kim Baker, John Ball, Errin Jewell, Kate Jordan and LeAndria Reed attended the event and
handed out paper engineering hats and train safety literature to thousands of students.
54
West Virginia Operation Lifesaver
Rail Camp
For railroad enthusiasts 7-17 years old, West Virginia Operation Lifesaver hosted its 2007 summer rail
camp June 24-29, in Petersburg, W.Va. Twenty-eight
students attended this year’s rail camp, some coming
from as far as Minnesota. Students spent the week
learning about careers in the rail industry and railroad
safety, as well as receiving hands-on experience with
locomotives.
Upon their Sunday arrival, students were given
a pre-test to assess their knowledge of railroad safety
and the test was given upon departure to measure how
much their knowledge increased. Monday’s activities
started at 8 a.m. with breakfast and a class that
discussed railroad grade crossings on site at the
South Branch Valley Railroad. Students were
divided into teams and began practicing
for the “Great Handcar Race” that would
take place Tuesday. Monday evening,
students boarded a dinner train that took
them from Petersburg to Moorefield,
which wrapped up the day’s activities.
Tuesday’s main activity was the
handcar race. After safety classes
from Anthony Cole, a train enthusiast from St. Albans, W.Va.,
students beat the heat at the
Moorefield pool.
Wednesday, students
toured Seneca Caverns, and later that evening, parents
and guests were invited to the annual open house dinner. Thursday morning, camp counselors and some
visiting parents got to partake in a Motorcar Trip that
ran from Moorefield to Sector. Twenty motorcars
participated in this scenic trip down the railway. After
returning from the trip, everyone boarded an Excursion
Train, which went from Petersburg to Sector, for lunch.
Upon returning Thursday evening, campers got to test
their OL knowledge in “Operation Lifesaver Jeopardy”
as their final activity before camp ended Friday.
Camp counselor LeAndria Reed said she
thought that by the end of camp, campers
were more aware and in tune with the
importance of railroad safety. “It’s
not something kids think about everyday, but once they do, they really
start to pay attention.”
Campers were presented with
awards Friday for earning points for
their teams. Following the awards presentation, campers and counselors parted
ways, but with high hopes of
attending camp next year.
55
Transportation Injury Prevention
and Safety (TIPS) Activities
Mary’s
entered into a partnership
RTMedical
I a n d Center
S a i n have
t
to provide transportation safety education and injury
prevention programs to school-aged children (pre-K12). The Transportation Injury Prevention and Safety
(TIPS) program focuses on preventing injury while
operating motorized and non-motorized recreation
equipment, such as all-terrain vehicles, motorbikes,
bicycles and motorized scooters, as well as vehicle
safety including the dangers of drugs and alcohol. The
program includes instruction on user behavior, equipment, demonstrations, special events and activities in
the community, and education programs delivered to
schools within the project area.
Dr. Raymond Busbee, Professor of Exercise
Science, Sport and Recreation at Marshall University,
and Christy Franklin, Director of St. Mary’s Regional
Neuroscience Center, coordinate the TIPS program.
TIPS for Extreme Fun, Feb. 24, 2007
On February 24, 2007, TIPS had its annual
TIPS for Extreme Fun Event at the Memorial Field
House in Huntington, W.Va. The event is open to the
public one weekend each year to educate children
and adults about transportation safety and injuries
prevention. This year, children who attended the event
were introduced to the Hatfield-McCoy trails when
some of the systems rangers visited to discuss ATV
safety. Other representatives at the event had booths
on fire safety, drug prevention and information on
automobile, motorcycle, bike and ATV safety.
56
As part of the Transportation Outreach on the Web, RTI has developed activities and hosts three interactive
websites:
• West Point Bridge Design Contest
• Design a Future Vehicle Teacher’s Corner Website
• Intelligent Transportation Systems - LEGO Robotics City
• Science and Engineering NASA Site of Remote Sensing (SENSORS City)
in addition to direct video links with several elementary schools in the Huntington area. Links to the websites
are available at www.marshall.edu/ati/towii/lego.htm.
57
Design a Future Vehicle (DFV)
Teacher’s Corner Website
RTI’s Design a Future Vehicle (DFV) website contains information for
students, parents and teachers about the six technologies of transportation used
to create vehicles and road systems. Lesson plans that integrate transportation
concepts into subjects including math, science, social studies, language arts and
computer technology are available at the DFV Teacher’s Corner.
Lesson plans for the following activities are available on the DFV Website.
Children can build these projects with items that may be purchased at discount
and electronic stores.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
58
Aluminum Foil Boats
Hovercraft
Simple Motor
Newton’s Law Car
Remote Control Vehicle
Production Line
Seat Belt Egg Vehicle
Solar Energy Collector
Balloon-Powered Vehicles
Bridge Experiment
Magnetic Street Board
LEGO Robotics City
LEGO Robotics City is located in the information
technology laboratory at RTI headquarters. This small,
robotic city has two web cameras that provide live
views of a simulated LEGO city with an oval track,
two monorails, a traffic gate and an autonomous, linefollowing vehicle.
Middle school students learn the concept of teleoperation through this system, which is usually integrated
into an Intelligent Transportation Systems LEGO Robotics workshop at RTI headquarters or through site
visits to elementary schools by RTI staff.
LEGO Robotics City can be operated through the
web and viewed with a live web camera after viewers download Red Rover Operating System software
from the RTI site.
Right: The Red Rover Operating System control screen facilitates
interactive e-mail exchanges from visitors with RTI operators.
The system has control buttons that operate the monorail forward
or backward. Programs may be written and sent to the system to
perform advanced operations such as opening the traffic gate or
moving the monorail.
Top right: The red line shows an ITS
monorail as seen from AppaLEGO City
(viewed from web camera 2) and indicated on
a schematic drawing.
59
Science and Engineering NASA
Site of Remote Sensing (SENSORS
City)
Through the Science and Engineering NASA Site
of Remote Sensing (SENSORS) City, students use
sensors to obtain feedback related to operation, control
and “teleoperation” of intelligent vehicles and traffic
control devices.
Students use the SENSORS site to send computer programs that operate ITS components, which
can be seen through a typical web connection and
require no special operating software.
After a program or “mission” is submitted, the
system returns results, which include graphs that illustrate data collected by the sensors, such as changes
in direction, temperature, light or elevation.
Computer programming challenges and competitions for students who have ROBOLAB software
are also posted on the SENSORS Site at www.sensorscity.marshall.edu.
Above: Shows the resultant graph that is returned to the sender if
the program was executed properly. In this case, the graph shows
four steps over time indicating that the monorail sensed it came into
contact with the end of the monorail track four times. For example, if
the monorail traveled back and forth two times it would have come
into contact a total of four times with the end of the track.
60
Adopt-a-School Program
As part of RTI’s Adopt-a-School program, RTI instructors use ROBOLAB
Cities and Transportation sets along with LEGO designed teacher curriculum to
spark an interest in math and science among local students. The program takes
place twice a month during the academic year.
Experiments conducted during Adopt-a-School sessions include:
Adopt-A-School Sponsored Schools
Barboursville Middle School
Carnegie Hall Kids College GPS and Robotics
Carnegie Hall After School Robotics and GPS Spring Session
Crichton Elementary
Culloden Elementary
Danese Elementary
Davis Creek Elementary
Eastern Greenbrier Middle School
Enslow Middle School
Fayette Elementary
Fayette Co.
Highlawn Elementary
Greenbrier East High School
Greenbrier West High School
Hinton Area Elementary
Hite Saunders Elementary
Jumping Branch Elementary
Lewisburg Elementary
Martha Elementary
Meadow Bridge Elementary
Meadow Bridge High School
Meadows Elementary
Miller Elementary
Mountain View Middle (Monroe County)
Mt. View High School
Our Lady of Fatima
Rainelle Chrisitan Academy
Rupert Elementary
Salt Rock Elementary
Spring Hill Elementary
St. Joseph Grade School
Student Aspect Preparatory School
Talcott Elementary
Tucker Valley
Village of Barboursville Elementary
West Middle
Western Greenbrier Middle School
White Sulphur Springs Elementary
Williamsburg Elementary
61
Management Structure
RTI
ARC
BSC
FHWA
MURC
MSU
WVUIT
Nick J. Rahall, II Appalachian Transportation Institute
Appalachian Regional Commission
Bluefield State University (formerly Bluefield State College)
Federal Highway Administration
Marshall University Research Corp.
Mountain State University
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
62
RTI Headquarters at Marshall University
Robert H. Plymale, B.A.
Director
304-696-7098, [email protected]
Richard Begley, Ph.D.
Associate Director
304-696-6660, [email protected]
Kim Baker, B.S., C.P.M.
Contract and Procurement Specialist
304-696-7164, [email protected]
John Ball, B.S. P.E.
Research Associate - Engineering
304-696-2525, [email protected]
Juan de dios Barrios, M.S.
Research Associate
304-696-3347, [email protected]
Jeremy Boykin, B.S.
Research Associate
304-696-6386, [email protected]
Brad Cains, B.S
Research Associate
304-696-6386, [email protected]
E. David Cartwright, M.S.
Research Associate - Engineering
304-696-6024, [email protected]
Peter Dailey, M.S.
Research Associate
304-696-6082, [email protected]
Linda Delaney, A.S.
Administrative Assistant
304-696-2906, [email protected]
Greg Dudding, B.S.
Research Associate
304-696-6376, [email protected]
Andrew Gooding, M.A.
Research and Technical Writer
304-696-3028, [email protected]
Pamela Hamilton, Ed.D.
Technology Transfer Specialist
304-696-6262, [email protected]
Richard Hatcher, MBA
Grants and Communications Specialist
304-696-2669, [email protected]
Christopher Haynes, B.A.
Web Technician
304-696-2313, [email protected]
Brian Helmer, B.A.
Trails Specialist
304-696-3548, [email protected]
Errin Jewell, M.A.
Public Affairs and DTP Specialist
304-696-7165, [email protected]
Sandra Jones
63
RTI Headquarters at Marshall University
Administrative Secretary
304-696-7098, [email protected]
David Lawson, M.S.
Information Systems Manager
304-696-4872, [email protected]
Mike Lewis, R.B.A., M.C.P.
Network Technician
304-696-6047, [email protected]
Theresa Litteral, M.S.
Research Associate - GIS
304-696-2594
Diana Long, Ed.D.
Workforce Development Coordinator
304-542-3303, [email protected]
LeAndria Reed, M.S.
Research Associate
304-696-3459, [email protected]
Barbara Roberts, M.A.
Program Coordinator, Sr.
304-696-7103, [email protected]
Dana Robertson, M.S.
Director, National Maritime
Enhancement Institute
304-633-4510, [email protected]
Brianne Salmons
Project Management Specialist
304-696-7072, [email protected]
Gael Setliff
Office Administrator
304-696-4321, [email protected]
Chandra Inglis-Smith, M.S.
Research Associate - GIS
304-696-3361, [email protected]
Kent Sowards
Research Associate
304-696-4817, [email protected]
Cathy Taylor, B.B.A.
Accounting Assistant
304-696-2313, [email protected]
Sanghong Yoo, M.S.
Research Associate
304-696-3376, [email protected]
D. Paul Young, Jr., B.S.
Information Technology Consultant
304-696-7148, [email protected]
Zhibin Sheng, M.S.
Research Associate
304-696-6326, [email protected]
64
Partner School Contacts
Bluefield State University
Bruce V. Mutter
304-327-4220 x4220
Mountain State University
Dr. Ramon Looney, Division Chair
304-929-1379
West Virginia University Institute of Technology
Dr. Steven Leftwich
304-442-3367
65
Advisory Council and Project Advisory Team
Members
Approximately 24 transportation and economic development officials comprise the RTI Advisory
Council and Project Advisory Team. These individuals, as members of the RTI Advisory Council and Project
Advisory Team, provide input on regional research needs, rank research proposals and serve on individual
project advisory teams.
FHWA
Kevin Burgess
Research and Technology Engineer
Phone: 304-347-5266
Email: [email protected]
Thomas Smith
Division Administrator
Geary Plaza, Suite 200
700 Washington Street East
Charleston, WV 25301
Phone: 304-347-5121
Email: [email protected]
Jonathan Ventura
Statewide Planning Engineer
Phone: 304-347-5329
Email: [email protected]
WV Department of Transportation
Darrell Allen
Director
Contract Administration Division
Phone: 304-558-3304
Email: [email protected]
Norse Angus
Engineering Division
Phone: 304-558-2885
Greg Bailey
Engineering Division
304-558-0601
Laura Conley-Rinehart
Executive Division
304-558-6366
Janet Lemon
Executive Division
304-558-3113
Mendy McClure
Finance Division
304-558-2841
Richard Genthner
Director, Materials Control Soils & Testing Division
190 Dry Branch Road
Charleston, WV 25306
304-558-3770
Neal Carte
Systems Analyst
Phone: 304-558-2885
Email: [email protected]
Cindy Cramer
Highway Engineer III
Phone: 304-558-2817
Email: [email protected]
David Cramer
Highway Engineer III
Phone: 304-558-2804
Email: [email protected]
Danny Ellis
66
Dick Nevi
Executive Director
Greenbrier County Economic Development Corporation
810 North Jefferson Street
Suite 103
Lewisburg, WV 24901-9347
Phone: 304-645-7155
Email: [email protected]
Judy Radford
Executive Director
4C Economic Development Corporation
912 Main Street East
Suite A
Oak Hill, WV 25901
Phone: 304-465-0585
Email: [email protected]
Mike Whitt
Executive Director
Mingo County Redevelopment Authority
P.O. Box 298
Williamson, WV 25661
Phone: 304-235-0042 ext. 4712
Email: [email protected]
Bob Augenstern
Executive Director
Southern Tier East Regional Planning Development
Commission
Planning Development Commission
375 State Street
Binghamton, NY 13901
Phone: 607-724-1327
Email: [email protected]
Rick Biery
Regional Planning Program Manager
Local Development District Association of Pennsylvania
507 Main Street
Towanda, PA 18848
Phone: 570-265-9103
Robert Culver
Executive Director
Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments
115 Washington Street SE
Suite A
Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: 256-533-3330
Email: [email protected]
Linda Giltz
Regional Planner
Transportation Business Manager
Phone: 304-558-2811
Email: [email protected]
Ken Ferguson
Transportation Service Manager III
Phone: 304-558-3165
Email: [email protected]
Kathy Holtsclaw
Administrative Services Manager II
Phone: 304-558-2804
Email: [email protected]
Bruce Kenny
Highway Engineer III
Phone: 304-558-3180
Email: [email protected]
Ray Lewis
Highway Engineer IV
Phone: 304-647-7465
Email: [email protected]
Susan O’Connell
Director Div. Public Transit
Phone: 304-558-0428
Email: [email protected]
Robert Watson
Planning and Research Division
Phone: 304-558-3165
Email: [email protected]
WV Development Office
Paul Hardesty
Director, Coalfield Community Development
West Virginia Development Office
Capitol Complex
Building Six, Room 650
Charleston, WV 25305-0311
Phone: 304-558-2234
Email: [email protected]
Regional Economic Development Entities
67
Land-of-Sky Regional Council
25 Heritage Drive
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: 828-251-6622
Email: [email protected]
Bob Gordon
Executive Director
Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning and Development Council
121 West King Street
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Phone: 304-263-1743
Email: [email protected]
John Hardy
Port Director
Lowndes County Port Authority
P.O. Box 663
Columbus, MS 39703
Phone: 662-329-5886
Email: [email protected]
David Mainord
Planning Director
Upper Cumberland Development District
1225 South Willow
Cookville, TN 38506
Phone: 931-432-4111
Email: [email protected]
Dan Ritchey
President, Business Advocate
Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Alliance
P.O. Box Highland Avenue
Cambridge, OH 43725-0130
Phone: 740-455-3266
Email: [email protected]
Don Rychnowski
Executive Director
Southern Tier West
4039 Rt. 219, Suite 200
Salamana, NY 14779
Phone: 716-945-5301
Email: [email protected]
Tim Weston
Director
Port Itawamba
P.O. Box 577
Fulton, MS 38843
Phone: 662-862-4571
Email: [email protected]
Greg Bischak
Chief Economist
Phone: 202-884-7790
Email: [email protected]
Amy Kessler
North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning &
Development Commission
651 Montmoreci Avenue
Ridgway, PA 15853
Phone: 814-773-3162
Email: [email protected]
Edward Terry
Senior Transportation Advisor
Phone: 202-884-7706
Email: [email protected]
Scott Hercik
Intermodal Planning
Phone 202-884-7706
Email: [email protected]
Wayne Strickland
Executive Director
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission
313 Luck Avenue
Phone: 540-343-4417
Email: [email protected]
68
RTI Sources of Funding Since Grant Inception
• Appalachian Regional Commission - (All13 State
Dept. of Trans.)
• Assumption College
• Benedum Foundation
• British Petroleum
• Business & Industrial Development Corporation
• CSX
• Cabell County Schools
• Federal Railroad Administration
• Greater Kanawha Resource
• Conservation and Development Area
• Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority
• Huntington Area Development Council
• KYOVA interstate Planning Commission
• Lincoln County Economic Development
• Meadow River Enterprises, Inc.
• Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Planning and
Development Council
• Norfolk Southern
• Ohio Department of Transportation
• Ohio Rail Development Commission
• Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation
Commission
(ORSANCO)
• Operation Respond
• Putnam County Development Authority
• Raleigh County
• Raleigh County Assessor
Funding Sources Year 8
Public/Private
Agencies 21%
USDOT
(RSPA)
50%
• St. Mary’s Hospital
• Tennessee Department of Transportation
• Tennessee Valley Authority
• United States Army Corps of Engineers
• United States Department of Energy
• United States Department of Justice
• United States Deparment of Transportation Federal
Highway Administration
• Wayne County Commission
• West Virginia Bureau of Employment Programs
• West Virginia Department of Natural Resources
• West Virginia Department of Tax and Revenue
• West Virginia Department of Transportation/Division
of Highways
• West Virginia Department of Transportation/Division
of Motor Vehicles
• West Virginia Development Office
• West Virginia Disaster Recovery Board
• West Virginia Division of Highways
• West Virginia Governor’s Office
• West Virginia Housing Development Fund
• West Virginia Public Port Authority
• West Virginia Public Service Corporation
• West Virginia Statewide Addressing
and
Expenditures Year 8
Education 20%
Administration
25%
Partner Schools 4%
Research 5%
Marshall University 25%
Technology Transfer 50%
69
Research Project Descriptions
New
Project
Number
TRP 07-01
Title
Operate/Maintain Data Warehouse
Principal Investigator
Ms. C. Inglis-Smith
Ongoing
Project
Number
TTP 06-01
TRP 05-09
TTP 03-01
TTP 00-21
TTP 00-15
TTP 00-14
TRP 00-10
TRP 00-08
TRP 00-07
TRP 00-05
TRP 00-02
TRP 00-01
TRP 99-27
TRP 99-18
TRP 99-16
TRP 99-10
TRP 99-09
TRP 99-06
TRP 99-05
Title
Principal Investigator
Phase III - GIS for the Appalachian Development Mr. Sang Yoo
Highway System 2007 Cost to Complete Estimate
Improving the Competitive Position of Appalachia’s Dr. Mark Burton
Wood Products Producers Through Enhanced
Transportation Alternatives
Development of a Transportation and Economic
Dr. Richard Begley
Development Information System (TEDIS) Delivered
over the Internet for WV-Phase II
Three-Dimensional Laser Scanner Pilot Project
Dr. A. Szwilski
Harrison, Mingo and Webster County Tax Map
Mr. Jamie Wolfe
Conversion
GIS of Major Transportation Corridors along the
Dr. Thomas Jones
Ohio River
Improving Transportation Access to Rural Health Dr. Robert Walker
Care in Lincoln County: Process Implementation
Development of a Research Protocal That Relates Dr. Mike Little
Culvert Structure to Fish Migration in Southern WV
Opportunities to Improve Transportation
Dr. Mark Burton
Efficiencesthrough Enhanced Intermodal
Capabilities and Increased Utilization of the
Appalachian Develpoment Highway System
Integrated Track Stability Assessment and Monitoring
Dr. Richard Begley
System (ITSAMS): Phase III
Master Land Use Plans for Southern WV Counties Mr. Bob Plymale
Integrated Track Stability Assessment and Monitoring
Dr. Richard Begley
System (ITSAMS): Phase II
Using FLI-Map Technology for Transportation
Dr. Richard Begley
Applications: Research Initiation Project
ITS Research Initiative Project
Dr. A. Vaseashta
McDowell County Transportation Study
Ms. Jennifer Plymale
Endangered Species Identification along Corridors Dr. Mike Robinson
in West Virginia Using GIS
Pre-Construction Assessment of Wetlands to be
Dr. Mike Robinson
along the Tolsia Highway
Potential Uses of Fly Ash and Other Recoverable Dr. A. Szwilski
Materials in New Transportation Infrastructure
Components
Use of Electroluminescence Technology for
Dr. Richard Begley
70
Research Project Descriptions
TRP 99-04
TRP 99-01
Highway Signage
Integrated Track Stability Assessment and Monitoring Dr. Richard Begley
Automated Road Extraction Using Satellite Imagery Dr Herbert Tesser
Completed
Project
Number
TTP 05-01
TTP 00-38
TTP 00-37
TTP 00-35
TTP 00-34
TTP 00-32
TTP 00-31
TTP 00-28
TTP 00-27
TTP 00-24
TTP 00-22
TTP 00-19
TTP 00-18
TTP 00-17
Title
Principal Investigator
Phase II – Enhanced GIS Mapping System for The Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Regional Commission’s Appalachian
Development Highway System (ADHS)
Proposed GIS Mapping System for South Carolina’s Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Georgia’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for New York’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Ohio’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Pennsylvania’s Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Mississippi’s Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for North Carolina’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Kentucky’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Maryland’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Alabama’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Proposed GIS Mapping System for Tennessee’s
Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Proposed GIS Mapping System for West Virginia’s Mr. Sean Litteral
Appalachian Development Highway System (ADHS)
Corridors
Development and Evaluation of a GIS Mapping
Mr. Sean Litteral
71
Research Project Descriptions
TTP 00-12
TTP 00-11
TRP 00-06
TRP 00-04
TRP 99-33
TRP 99-32
TRP 99-29
TRP 99-25
TRP 99-24
TRP 99-23
TRP 99-19
TRP 99-15
TRP 99-14
TRP 99-13
TRP 99-11
TRP 99-09
TRP 99-08
TRP 99-07
TRP 99-03
TRP 99-02
TRP 99-00
System for the West Virginia’s Hatfield and McCoy
Trail System
A Deployment Plan for the WV High Technology Dr. Michael Hicks
Corridor
Development of Transportation and Economic
Mr. Sean Litteral
Development Information System (TEDIS)
Delivered over the Internet for WV
Transportation and Market Feasibility Analysis for Dr. Mark Burton
Innovative Coal Combustion Byproducts to be
Manufactured Adjacent to the I-64 High Tech
Corridor in Southern WV (Woodbrick)
Expected Flood Damages to Transportation
Dr. Mark Burton
Infrastructures as a Proportion of Total Event Costs:
A Methodological Exploration
Highway Program Finance Options and Strategy
Dr. Herbert Tesser
GIS Implementation Strategy for WVDOT
Dr. Herbert Tesser
Development of a Plan for a Non-Motorized
Dr. Raymond Busbee
Transportation Corridor in Southern WV: Case
Study for Alternate Sources of Transportation
between Huntington and Charleston
Improving Safety and Operational Conditions at
Dr. Richard Begley
Railroad Crossings: An Analysis of Bolt
Installations, Designs and Torque Procedures
Improving Efficiency of Truck/Rail Intermodal
Dr. Mark Burton
Transportation: The Case of West Virginia
Survey of Truck Parking Places (Private) in WV
Ms. Jennifer Plymale
Public/Private Port Case Study
Dr. Mark Burton
Impacts of the Appalachian Corridor on Small
Businesses
Drowsy Driving Problems in WV
Commodity Flows in Northern West Virginia
Maximizing Economic Benefits from a Rails to
Trails Project in Southern WV: Case Study of the
Greenbrier River Trail
Pre-Construction Assessment of Wetlands to be
Built along the Tolsia Highway
Abandoned Tire Health Risk Survey/Analysis
Rockfall Rating System for Slopes along Highways
in WV and KY
Lincoln County Transportation Study
Preserving Branch Line Railroads
Commodity Flows and Transportation Inventory
72
Dr. Michael Hicks
Dr. Robert Walker
Dr. Mark Burton
Dr. R. Busbeee
Dr. Mike Robinson
Dr. James Joy
Dr. A. Szwilski
Dr. Mark Burton
Dr. Mark Burton
Dr. Mark Burton
Research Project Descriptions
Discontinued
Project
Number
TRP 99-26
TRP 99-17
Title
Beckley Exhibition Mine Expansion: Project
Management and Evaluation for a Transportation
Enhancement Project to be Built along a National
Scenic By-Way in WV
Magnetic Levitation Planning for WV
73
Principal Investigator
Dr. Richard Begley
Dr. Richard Begley
Writers:
Richard Begley
Errin Jewell
Kate Jordan
Copy Editors:
Andrew Gooding
Pam Hamilton
Richard Hatcher
Contributors:
Kimberley Baker
Diana Long
Dana Robertson
Barbara Roberts
Layout and Design:
Errin Jewell
Photographs:
John Ball
Kimberley Baker
Errin Jewell
Kate Jordan
Diana Long
John Perry
74
75
Nick J. Rahall, II
Appalachian Transportation Institute
P.O. Box 5425
Huntington, WV
25703-0425
Phone: (304)696-7098
Fax: (304)696-6661
www.marshall.edu/rti
“Building Jobs through Transportation”