Georgia milepost [Summer (June 2012)]

Summer 2012
MILEPOST now includes CONNECTOR
...information of particular interest to employees of Georgia DOT
District 3's Role in Support of Film Industry
Page 9
Anatomy of a HERO
Page 10
Northwest Corridor Express Moves Forward
Page 13

Contents

1 Commissioner's Column 2 Across the Board:

Gateways to Welcome Visitors
3 GDOT Briefs 4 GeoTRAQS Improves Tracking and Information Gathering 5 GDOT Updates:

Transportation Referendum

MMPT Environmental Review
6 Creative traffic management on GA 400 7 Georgia's first Diverging Diamond Interchange Opens 8 GDOT Tidbits 9 District 3 Ready for "Action" in Support of Film Industry 10 Anatomy of a HERO and His Truck 12 Summer Construction 13 Northwest Corridor Express Moves Forward

Welcome to

14

News for and about Employees of Georgia DOT

15 Above & Beyond: Customer Service Award 16 Letters of Praise 18 GDOT Equipment Operators Display Skills at Statewide Competition

Connector Shorts
19 Retirees and Service Anniversaries

Summer 2012
MILEPOST now includes CONNECTOR
...information of particular interest to employees of Georgia DOT
District 3's Role in Support of Film Industry
Page 9
Anatomy of a HERO
Page 10
Northwest Corridor Express Moves Forward
Page 13
On the cover: D3 Communications Officer Kimberly Larson has major role in scouting sites for Hollywood movies on location in Georgia.
Cover photo: Cedric Mohr cmohr@dot.ga.gov

Commissioner's Column
Doing more with less.
Nowadays "doing more with less" is a common theme. Families, businesses and DOTs across the country all face this challenge. And Georgia Department of Transportation is no exception. We are continually developing new strategies to do more with less.
For example, in this issue of MILEPOST, you will learn how GDOT is doing more with less to ease congestion on GA 400 by making operational enhancements that maximize use of the existing pavement - without the costs of paving new lanes. You will also read about Georgia's first diverging diamond interchange that opened in June in DeKalb County. The DDI concept--while addressing safety and congestion--is a significant money-saver over traditional interchange designs. There's an "Anatomy of a HERO," insights into how GDOT works with the motion picture industry to film movies in Georgia, and a look at the re-invented Northwest Corridor Express project. And finally, there is the Regional Transportation Referendum. On July 31, Georgians will vote on a one percent 10-year sales tax for transportation projects in their communities. In regions that pass the tax, GDOT is prepared to fulfill our role to deliver projects on time and on budget. MILEPOST has tackled the "do more with less" challenge also. This is the first issue that includes our employee newsletter--CONNECTOR--as a special section. Connector is news for and about employees, and the important work they perform. We anticipate that all readers will enjoy and benefit from this additional perspective. With summer construction ongoing, please be especially cautious while driving in work zones. I wish you a safe and productive summer.
Keith Golden, P.E.

Administration
Keith Golden, P.E. Commissioner
Todd Long, P.E. Deputy Commissioner
Gerald Ross, P.E. Chief Engineer
Angela Whitworth Treasurer
Office Of Communications
Karlene Barron Director
Creative & Design Services
Carla Murphy Program Manager
Cedric Mohr Design Project Manager
Liz Rothman Public Affairs Writer
Ron Battle Electronic Information Design Coordinator
Communications Intern
Robin Glaubman
Contributing Writers
Julette Carter Jill Goldberg David Spear Susan Long, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts
District Communications
Teri Pope, District One Cissy McNure, District Two Kimberly Larson, District Three Craig Solomon, District Four Jill Nagel, District Five Mohamed Arafa, District Six Mark McKinnon, District Seven
Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 1

Across the Board

Sam Wellborn Don Grantham Jeff Lewis
Gateways to Welcome Visitors to Georgia
By Liz Rothman
Enhancing the appearance of key entry points into Georgia is becoming a reality with Georgia DOT's selection of a design consultant firm to create eye-catching Welcome to Georgia entrance structures and landscaping.

The contract was awarded to Alpharettabased AMEC, an international project management company offering engineering, consulting, and environmental services for the transportation and energy sectors.
The gateways will be designed to improve aesthetics for drivers crossing into Georgia, especially on major interstates. The signature landmarks will encourage economic development, and drive home the message that Georgia is a great place to live, work, and play.
AMEC is evaluating each of the preliminary locations to determine water and power availability, design scale based upon location, and boundaries with adjacent states. Design models are expected in the fall.
The State Transportation Board (STB) Gateway Subcommittee is chaired by Sam Wellborn of Columbus, representing the 3rd Congressional District. Subcommittee

members are Don Grantham of Augusta, representing the 10th Congressional District; and Jeff Lewis of White, representing the 11th Congressional District.
"I am very excited to see what possibilities are available to improve the appearance of major roadways into Georgia," said Wellborn. "I want us to make a positive impact on visitors that will leave a lasting impression when people drive across that state line... a wow factor," he added.
Due to the large number of interstate highway entrances to Georgia and the limited funding available, Wellborn expects the Gateways program to be a multi-year initiative. About $3 million a year will come from the advertising income Georgia DOT collects from the blue informational signs posted along Georgia interstates, Wellborn said. "We have segregated that money at the DOT. Now, we've got a specific program where we're going to use it."

DBE Usage for TIA

Projects

The STB has adopted a

resolution encouraging

Dana Lemon

the use of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises

(DBEs) for TIA-funded projects,

regardless of whether federal funds are

involved (DBE requirements normally

apply to federally-funded projects).

"Whether GDOT or a local government

is managing and delivering a TIA project,

we strongly suggest that DBEs be used

when possible," stressed District 13

Board Member Dana Lemon. "This

resolution demonstrates the Board's

proactive commitment to ensuring that

under-represented groups participate in

delivering transportation projects, and

underscores the Board's role in making

decisions that contribute to statewide economic development."
With passage of the resolution, the Board also encouraged the use of small businesses and veteranowned businesses.
Brown recognized by Georgia Trend In its May cover story, Georgia Trend recognized District 4 STB member and Robert Brown architect Robert Brown for professional and civic achievements, and named him Most Respected CEO for 2012. The article portrays a man whose qualities extend beyond business. Read the story at www.georgiatrend.com/ May-2012/Giving-Back.

Wellborn Receives Distinguished Citizen Award Board member Sam Wellborn received the 2012 Distinguished Citizen Award from the Chattahoochee Council of the Boy Scouts of America, headquartered in Columbus (GA). Wellborn was honored for "his distinguished career as a business leader, a community leader in the non-profit sector and as a longstanding public servant in his role on the State Transportation Board," said Council President Colin Martin.

The 13-member State Transportation Board (STB) determines policy and generally governs Georgia DOT. Each board member is elected by a caucus of Georgia General Assembly members from their specific congressional district. For more information and to view the monthly newsletter from your board representative, visit www.dot.ga.gov/board.

2 www.dot.ga.gov

GDOTBriEfs

Keith Golden was unanimously selected commissioner of Georgia DOT on March 1 by the State Transportation Board. A 25-year GDOT veteran, Golden had served as acting commissioner since September, was deputy commissioner and held numerous management positions in traffic engineering and operations, including director of operations. Golden is a registered professional engineer, with bachelor and master's degrees in civil engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. He began his 25-year Georgia DOT career in planning and has held numerous management positions, most recently as director of operations
Todd Long has been appointed Georgia DOT deputy commissioner. He was most recently the state planning director and has a long history with the Department before moving to the Governor's office. Long has bachelor and master's degrees in civil engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is a registered professional engineer and a certified professional traffic operations engineer.
Toby Carr was appointed director of planning by Governor Nathan Deal. Carr served as Gov. Deal's transportation policy advisor and was previously his liaison to the Georgia House of Representatives, as well as executive director of Deal's gubernatorial transition committee. Carr has bachelor's degrees in both finance and agricultural engineering from University of Georgia. The appointment was approved by the Senate; House confirmation is anticipated.
Meg Pirkle was named director of the Permits and Operations Division at Georgia DOT. The 22-year GDOT veteran has served in various management roles, most recently as executive assistant to the chief engineer. Pirkle will continue in her role as GDOT's program manager for the Federal Stimulus Package. She is a registered professional engineer,

and has a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University and a master's degree in transportation engineering from Georgia Tech.
Bayne Smith was named district engineer for District 1. He was most recently vice president of Surface Transportation in the Atlanta office of URS Corporation. Smith has over 20 years of experience in transportation, including 10 years with Georgia DOT in various engineering positions up to assistant office head. He has a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Georgia Tech, a professional engineering license and professional traffic operations certification.
Rachel Brown was appointed district engineer for District 7. The 20-year GDOT veteran was most recently assistant state maintenance engineer. She previously served as assistant district engineer, as well as acting district engineer for D7. Brown has an associate's degree in civil engineering technology and is Georgia DOT's first female district engineer.
DeWayne Comer has been named District 6 district engineer. Comer, a 22-year GDOT veteran, has a bachelor's in civil engineering technology from Southern College of Technology. He is a licensed professional engineer. He was most recently assistant district engineer/preconstruction engineer for D6.
Georgia DOT's Transit Programs and Fiscal Services received three U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Region IV Achievement Awards at the FTA Annual State Programs Team meeting early this year. GDOT was recognized as FTA's FY 2011 Most Improved Grantee; for Outstanding Achievement in Grant Closeouts; and for Outstanding Achievement in FY 2011 FTA Reviews.

fact (fakt) n. 1. information 2. detail 3. truth 4. reality

GDOT's 20102011 Fact

2010-2011
Fact Georgia Department of Transportation Book
www.dot.ga.gov

Book received two awards

for graphic

design, editorial

content and

overall communications effectiveness.

The Creative & Design Services team

in the Office of Communications was

recognized by the National Association

of Government Communicators (NAGC)

with a second place "2012 Blue Pencil

& Gold Screen" award in the Special

Purpose Publication category. The NAGC

theme is Government

National Association of

Communicators - Telling

Government Communicators America's Stories.

The Fact Book also

received an "Award of

Publication Excellence"

in the international

APEX (Annual Print &

Electronic Awards for

Publication Excellence) 2012 Awards in

the Special Purpose Brochures, Manuals

& Reports category.

Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 3

Online Mapping Application Replaces TREX
GeoTRAQS Improves Tracking and Information Gathering
By Jill Goldberg and Liz Rothman

Improved transportation decision-making. That's the goal of GeoTRAQS (Geographic Transportation Reporting Analysis and Query System)
Georgia DOT's new Web-based application brings data together from a variety of Department program areas for staff, consultants and the public to use for transportation decision-making. GeoTRAQS allows us to view, understand, and visualize geographically-referenced data in ways that reveal relationships, patterns, and trends.
Based upon the Department's existing Geographic Information System (GIS), GeoTRAQS finds and consolidates data to improve visualization and spatial analysis. The new features of the program--especially the improved online mapping--enhance communications efforts with stakeholders. Use GeoTRAQS to map locations of current projects, as well as historical projects from as far back as 1918. It also includes bridge, crash, permit, and traffic data.

"The IT team did a fantastic job launching this new system," Georgia DOT Chief Information Officer Jeff Hill commented. "This is a perfect example of our people working together to make our information sources more user-friendly and effective for the citizens of Georgia."
GeoTRAQS features
Improved interface and maps Display street, imagery or other background maps Collapse or expand menus Use Web page or full-screen mode
More options for searching by area, location, or Georgia DOT data using criteria in pull-down menus
Query map directly using Spatial Query Tools to draw a boundary or buffer on the map
Query data directly using Attribute Query Tools Turn layers on or off or change their transparency in the
Layer list Detailed identification of features displayed on the map
Check out GeoTRAQS:
www.dot.ga.gov/maps/geotraqs

UP
to previous Milepost stories
Georgia DOT prepares for project delivery
Transportation Referendum July 31

The statewide 2012 Transportation Referendum is Tuesday, July 31. That's when voters will decide if 12 designated districts across Georgia will collect a one percent sales tax for the next 10 years to be devoted exclusively to local and regional transportation projects.
In districts where the referendum passes, GDOT is responsible for project delivery. And project delivery is what Georgia DOT does - an independent study ranked Georgia DOT first in the country in on-budget project delivery and second in on-time delivery.
Georgia DOT will deliver Transportation Referendum projects using a streamlined delivery

process with strict attention to budgets and schedules, and coordination with local governments. The Department will also work extensively to structure agreements with Regional Commissions and local governments to enable them to deliver as many projects as possible in their communities.
GDOT will complete Referendum projects on time and on budget. For information and to view a video about GDOT's role in project delivery, visit www.dot.ga.gov/transportationreferendum.

Georgia MultiModal Passenger Terminal
Environmental review underway for MMPT
By David Spear

Georgia DOT, in partnership with federal agencies, is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the proposed Georgia MultiModal Passenger Terminal (MMPT) a key initial step toward the project's development. The EIS, an essential component of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), evaluates actions to mitigate potential environmental effects of alternative development at the site.
The Environmental Protection Agency, on behalf of the Federal Transit Administration and Georgia DOT, released a Notice of Intent advising of the EIS process. Georgia DOT hosted open houses in the spring to introduce the project, answer questions and obtain public comment on the need and purpose of the project, alternatives and their potential impacts,

which are all part of the EIS. A public information open house will also be held in October. It is anticipated that the EIS will be completed by spring 2013.
The Georgia MMPT will bring together various ground and rail transit services in a centralized downtown location to create a vital transportation connection for metro Atlanta and all of Georgia. It will serve as a hub for current and proposed transportation networks, including the existing MARTA rail and bus systems, the regional express bus systems, and the Georgia railroad network.
Visit www.dot.ga.gov/mmpt, or Facebook: www.facebook.com/georgiammpt, or Twitter: www.twitter.com/#/georgiammpt.

4 www.dot.ga.gov

Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 5

Operational improvements show promising results
Creative traffic management on GA 400

By Jill Goldberg

Georgia 400 is a popular route for commuters in the metro Atlanta region. Georgia DOT is working on new and innovative ways to address the growing traffic in the area.
Flexible shoulder lanes
Announced by Governor Nathan Deal during his annual state of the state address, flexible shoulder lanes opened for traffic in May - and results are promising. Working with transportation partners, the Department implemented flexible shoulder lane usage for passenger vehicles along southbound sections of GA 400. Georgia code allows for shoulder lanes to be used by vehicles during peak congestion periods; MARTA

and GRTA coach buses have traveled in the shoulder lanes for years. The Department expanded the flexible shoulder lane use to include commuter vehicles from 6:30-9:30 a.m. Monday through Friday southbound beginning at Holcomb Bridge Road and ending at the North Springs MARTA Station exit. Work included new signage; restriping of lanes across bridges; new emergency pull off areas; enhanced HERO coverage; and coordination with local governments and first responders.
While preliminary numbers show a reduction in travel times on GA 400 and a decrease in delays on Holcomb Bridge Road, more will be known in the fall when school is back in session. GDOT will continue to monitor traffic flow to determine if there is sufficient improvement to warrant expanded use of shoulder lanes with possible implementation on GA 400 northbound during the evening commute between the North Springs MARTA Station and Holcomb Bridge Road.

Auxiliary lane conversion
Auxiliary lanes run from entrance ramp to exit ramp and give merging and exiting traffic a lane of their own. In June, GDOT completed the conversion of the southbound auxiliary merging lanes between McFarland Parkway and Holcomb Bridge Road into a continuous thru-traffic travel lane. With the conversion, motorists entering GA 400 southbound at Windward Parkway, Old Milton Parkway, Haynes Bridge Road or Mansell Road now must immediately merge into through traffic.
"This new configuration allows us to maximize use of our existing pavement resources," said Commissioner Keith Golden. "By returning to a traditional entrance and exit merge format, we are able to provide motorists with more capacity and better mobility without the cost of having to pave a new lane."

6 www.dot.ga.gov

Addressing safety, congestion and construction costs
Georgia's first Diverging Diamond Interchange Opens in DeKalb
By Susan Long, Perimeter Community Improvement Districts

Can you DDI? Thousands of
Metro Atlantans are doing the moves. And you can too.
Arrive. Crossover. Drive.
That's the mantra now that Georgia's first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) successfully opened in June at I-285 and Ashford Dunwoody Road in DeKalb County.
The DDI design shifts the flow of traffic to the opposite side of the road to reduce points of traffic conflict and improve traffic flow and safety.
"This is a creative, proven, low-cost design that provides immediate traffic congestion relief," said Yvonne Williams, president and CEO of the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts (PCIDs), which initiated the project. "We are expecting that under normal, freeflowing traffic conditions on surrounding highways, traffic delays in evening rush hours will be reduced as much as 20 percent."
"The DDI is an innovative intersection design that not only promotes safety, but also addresses increased capacity and minimized project cost," said Georgia DOT Commissioner Keith Golden, noting that construction time is reduced and traffic flow is maintained while contractors perform

their work. "We anticipate that the DDI concept will become an option for congested metro area interchanges." Two DDIs are also planned on I-85 in Gwinnett County one at Pleasant Hill Road and the other at Jimmy Carter Boulevard.
The I-285 and Ashford Dunwoody Road DDI is a partnership project between the PCIDs and Georgia DOT. In 2009, the PCIDs invested $100,000 to hire Moreland Altobelli Associates (MA) to conduct pre-engineering studies and find a new concept for the interchange, which is a major gateway to Central Perimeter, the largest office market in metro Atlanta.
"When I-285 was built in 1969, much of Perimeter was still farmland," Williams noted. "Today, more than 123,000 people work in Perimeter each day and nearly 90 percent of those commute to the area. And of the nearly 67,000 people who live in Perimeter, almost 80 percent commute out of the area to work. So changes needed to be made to accommodate this tremendous growth," Williams said.
Moreland Altobelli recommended the DDI design, which originated in France. The PCIDs received funding from DeKalb County and a grant from the State Road and Tollway Authority to allow MA to create a DDI design for

the interchange. GDOT funded the $4.6 million construction cost and awarded a contract in August 2011 to E.R. Snell Contractor, Inc. of Snellville.
"MA and the PCIDs actively coordinated with GDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), which allowed the project to move from idea to concept to construction in record time," said MA President Buddy Gratton.
Because of how left turns are handled within the DDI, total crashes were down 46 percent in the first year of operation of the nation's first DDI, which opened in Missouri in 2009. Left turn type crashes were eliminated and left turn right angle type crashes were down 72 percent.
For more information about the Ashford Dunwoody Road DDI at I-285, visit: www.CanYouDDI.org.

Driving through a DDI is easy. Just follow the road!

Adiverging diamond interchange allows vehicles to turn onto the freeway with less time spent at traffic signals; vehicles turn left onto on-ramps without stopping after crossing through one set of lights. In our DDI, the traffic on Ashford Dunwoody Road

briefly crosses from the right side of the roadway to the left side at a ramp intersection signal so vehicles may make free left turns onto the I-285 freeway on-ramp. Traffic crosses back to the right side of the road at a second ramp intersection. Signs, striping, curbs and

concrete barriers are designed to guide and safely separate opposing traffic as it moves through the interchange. To view a brief video about DDIs, visit www.perimetercid.org/ddi.html.

Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 7

Rudbeckia hirta. No, it's not a typo. It's the botanical name for the Blackeyed Susan, one of two wildflower specialty auto tags whose purchase funds Georgia DOT's Wildflower Program (the other is Purple Coneflower). The program enhances Georgia's natural beauty with colorful roadside blooms. This summer, Cosmos wildflowers will be planted statewide, with native variety plantings come fall. For a free packet of wildflower seeds, or more information on the Wildflower Program, including a link to the Georgia Department of Revenue auto tag website, visit www.dot.ga.gov/wildflowers. Or call 404.631.1829.

GDOT recognized for clean commute initiative. The Clean Air Campaign (CAC) designated GDOT a Platinum Partner for its commute and telework program that resulted in 34 percent of employee commutes to and from the Midtown general office last year involving alternatives to single occupancy vehicle trips. GDOT employees (registered with the CAC) who carpooled, vanpooled, took transit, biked, walked and teleworked saved 1.5 million vehicle miles. For information on the CAC, including telework, compressed work week and flextime programs, visit www.cleanaircampaign.org. To sign up for the CAC's Commuter Rewards Program, visit LogYourCommute.org.

Project delivery. It's what we do. The statewide 2012 Transportation Referendum is Tuesday, July 31. That's when voters will decide if 12 districts across Georgia will collect a one percent 10-year sales tax to exclusively fund local and regional transportation projects. GDOT's role is project delivery in districts that pass the referendum. The Department will deliver Referendum projects on time and on budget. See article on page 5. For information, visit www.dot.ga.gov/transportationreferendum.
Georgia Tech named University Transportation Center. U.S. DOT selected Georgia Institute of Technology to lead nine colleges and universities in Georgia, Florida and Alabama to focus on transportation issues of importance to the nation, state and metro areas. The $7 million effort is funded through a $3.5 million federal grant with matching funds from sources including state DOTs, the Woodruff Foundation and others. The consortium includes University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Southern University, Southern Polytechnic State University, Clark Atlanta University, and Spelman College.
We Are In Motion! In Motion is Georgia DOT's official e-newsletter. If you'd like to receive our monthly email about how we are working to maintain and improve transportation throughout Georgia, please email inmotion@list.dot.ga.gov.

Hurricane season runs through November 30. Tropical systems from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico can wreak havoc in Georgia, especially in the six highest-risk coastal counties of Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Glynn, Liberty and McIntosh. During a hurricane, wind gusts exceeding 74 mph and torrential rain can not only cause damage to the shoreline, but a direct hit can result in a storm surge that requires a mandatory evacuation. In that event, I-16 eastbound lanes would become "contra-flow lanes," or reverse lanes. All lanes would be westbound traffic only from Savannah to west
of U.S. 441 in Dublin, a total of 125 miles. In an emergency, Georgia DOT can "contra-flow" other interstates as well. For a PDF of GDOT's hurricane brochure, as well as preparation tips, shelters, a map of evacuation routes and links to local emergency and national hurricane and weather websites, visit www.dot.ga.gov/travelingingeorgia/severeweather.

Don't barrel through work zones. That was the theme for April's Work Zone Safety Awareness week, but of course the message holds true all year long. Work zones are dangerous for workers and motorists alike. In fact, drivers and their passengers represent 80 percent of the fatalities in highway work zone accidents. Drivers are urged to stay focused and avoid distractions and obey Georgia's no texting while driving and Move Over laws. Drive smart to arrive alive.

8 www.dot.ga.gov

From scouting crash scenes to issuing permits, District 3 often gets a leading role
District Office Ready for "Action" in Support of Film Industry

By Carla Murphy

Long before directors scream Lights! Camera! Action! on film locations across the state, Georgia DOT is often on the scene literally. From assisting with scouting ideal locations for high-speed chase scenes to identifying the most picturesque community to depict 1950's Atlanta, Kimberly Larson and the District 3 staff may play a significant, early role. While she spends considerable time managing media and community relations as the District Communications Officer, Larson often performs another important duty working with the state's Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) in support of Georgia's $2.5 billion film production industry.
"I have come to learn that this is an important part of my job," says Larson, noting the direct and indirect economic impact on communities in her district and across the state. "When we are called on, we are always prepared to assist and offer suggestions to location managers and film industry folks looking to shoot here."
From the films Zombieland, Footloose, Fast 5, The Odd Life of Timothy Green and Joyful Noise to the television shows Walking Dead and Drop Dead Diva, Larson has some familiarity with them all having scouted State Route 20 in Henry County for a chase scene in Fast 5 and prepared announcements for the pacing of traffic on Interstate 85 in Henry County for the Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah movie, Joyful Noise. It also was Larson who, working with other Georgia DOT staff, identified a bridge over the Chattahoochee River in rural Heard County for a scene in Footloose.
"For the Heard County bridge location, we worked with the Department of Natural Resources and the Riverkeepers to make sure that in using it, there would be no adverse

environmental impact to the river," she added. "The goal is to minimize impact to the environment and to traffic on our state routes and interstates."
And while Larson is the face and voice of the Department in District 3, she notes that support comes from many others at Georgia DOT. District Engineer David Millen, Traffic Operations, the Office of Permits and others all make certain film companies have proper insurance, have signed all paperwork and secured necessary permits.
Larson, who joined the Department in 2007 as the district's communications officer, has learned that, while varied, her job requires flexibility and patience, particularly as the Georgia DOT delivers on one of its most important goals encouraging and supporting economic development across Georgia.
And the impact of that work is significant. According to GDEcD, the direct economic benefit of film production in Georgia exceeded $2 billion in 2011. And Larson has seen those benefits firsthand. Film crews do business in communities they visit, often using hotels, restaurants and stores and hiring support workers like makeup artists, truck drivers, painters and security guards.
And why does her district appear to be so popular? "What we are told is that the crews like to be an hour or hour and a half from Atlanta," she says from her office in Thomaston. "We can offer location scouts more options for rural, suburban, city and historic sites, oftentimes with minimal impact to motorists. So, we are Atlanta, without being in Atlanta."
Indeed.
Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 9

Anatomy of a HERO and His Truck
By Liz Rothman

V ernon Adger is justifiably serious and proud. He knows that his decisions and actions affect the lives of thousands

of commuters each day. And that his performance can be of ultimate significance in the life of just one person.
Adger is a Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO), a 16-year veteran of the original unit. He took a few minutes from his on-the-road activities to provide a look at the services HERO operators provide on metro Atlanta's highways and to offer a glimpse into the capabilities of the HERO truck.
"Our primary duty is to clear roads after an incident so that normal traffic flow is restored as quickly as possible," Adger explains. "HEROs also assist stranded motorists. We learn how to engage with the public. After all, when we meet a motorist, it's not necessarily the driver's best day."

HERO training. Anything but basic.
Highway Emergency Response Operators undergo months of training. Classes include vehicle relocation (push, pull, drag); clearing roads; tapering traffic; basic car repair (to enable the motorist to get to the next exit); first aid; First Responder Certification; and handling hazardous materials (hazmat) like motor vehicle fluids.
Sometimes the HERO is the first responder on the scene of a serious accident--even before the ambulance arrives. In an accident with injuries, the HERO checks vital signs like blood pressure and respiration. When paramedics arrive, the HERO can provide time-saving information.

"When there are neck and back injuries--we don't move the victim-- we stabilize them with a C-collar to prevent further harm," Adger says. "In unfortunate cases where the victim is in cardiac arrest, we use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) to get their heart going."
HERO truck. Everything in its place.
You'd expect the vehicle to carry the basics like repair tools, water, gas, antifreeze, and starter fluid. HERO vehicles also contain first aid supplies and the life-saving AED. There are safety devices like flares; and cones for visibility and for tapering traffic. Plus items to

prevent fuel contamination; fuel buster fire extinguisher; "Oil-Dri" to soak up diesel and gas into a solid form so that can be shoveled and taken away; and an A2 ring inflatable child's swimming pool to catch and contain spilled diesel from an overturned tractor-trailer.
HERO Truck Features Highly visible vehicle can be seen from a mile away Can pull an 80,000 pound 18-wheel tractor-trailer Large, lighted digital message board extends 12-14 feet high; designed to be seen by 70+ mph traffic External speaker 120-gallon fuel recovery tank Flood lights for visibility at night and to help accident investigators

Adger gets satisfaction from helping people. He says it's amazing to see how the HERO unit has grown over the years--from 12 operators in 1996 to 104 in 2012. "The job is challenging and rewarding. Each day is different. You must always be on your toes," he says. "It's humbling to be called an `angel' when I help people out of harm's way."
Adger offers some simple driving advice we should all heed. "Eliminate distractions and stay focused," he cautions. "Be aware of your surroundings. No texting. No distractions. Just drive."
For more information, visit www. dot.ga.gov/hero. To request HERO assistance on a metro Atlanta freeway, dial 511.

Cedric Mohr cmohr@dot.ga.gov

10 www.dot.ga.gov

Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 11

Summer Construction Well Underway
By David Spear

W hile Memorial Day weekend traditionally marks the unofficial start of summer and the start of Georgia DOT's busiest construction season, this year was different - 2012's summer construction season began back in January. The state's mild winter gave GDOT an unusual--but welcome--window to begin some work early.
But there's still plenty left to do from now to late fall. No fewer than 20 major projects will occur this summer on Georgia's Interstate Highway System alone. They're among dozens of jobs across the state designed to improve mobility.

Although the Department looks to schedule work during off-peak travel hours, there will be need for occasional detours and lane closures as well as the establishment of several dozen highway work zones.
"Please be alert, cautious and patient when driving through project work zones," Commissioner Keith Golden noted. "Our work is weather-dependent and can be timeconsuming. We will complete it as quickly as possible; our first priority always, however, is to complete it safely for our workers and our system's many travelers."
For project details, visit our interactive summer construction map at www.dot.ga.gov/roadworks.

New Construction Authorized
With one month remaining in Fiscal Year 2012, Georgia DOT began 265 new construction projects valued at over $870 million for statewide road and bridge infrastructure improvements. The largest single projects include: $27.8 million to resurface 22 miles of Interstate Highway 75 in Bartow and Gordon counties (expected completion: May 2013); $16.8 million for construction of a new I-75 interchange at Union Grove Road south of Calhoun in Gordon County (expected completion: September 2014); and $15.7 million for reconstruction of the I-75 interchange at Jodeco Road in Henry County (expected completion: summer 2015).
For details on these and other awarded projects, visit: http://tomcat2.dot.state.ga.us/ContractsAdministration (click on Bid Notices/Reports).
Major Projects Opened To Traffic
GDOT District 1 Oconee County/Congressional District 10 1.5 miles of widening and reconstruction on Jennings Mill Parkway; construction of bridge and approaches over SR 10 Loop; installation of intersection Video Detection System. Open: 3/1/12 Gwinnett County/Congressional District 7 1 mile of construction of bridge and approaches on SR 324 (Gravel Springs Road) over I-85/SR 403. Open: 4/30/12
GDOT District 2 Newton County/Congressional Districts 7 & 8 1.1 miles of widening and reconstruction consisting of grading, drainage, base and plant mix resurfacing on SR 142. Open: 3/22/12

GDOT District 3 Bibb County/Congressional District 8 4.7 miles of widening and construction of partial cloverleaf interchange on I-75 at Sardis Church Road. Open: 5/17/12 (two weeks ahead of schedule) Troup County/Congressional District 3 South LaGrange Loop Phase II 6 miles of construction including construction of railroad bridge and approaches over South LaGrange Loop and installation of closed circuit television system (CCTV). Open: 12/19/11
GDOT District 4 Quitman County/Congressional District 2 11.3 miles of paving and shoulder rehabilitation on SR 50. Open: 12/15/11 Baker County/Congressional District 2 15.4 miles of resurfacing and shoulder rehabilitation on SR 91. Open: 12/1/11 Lee County/Congressional District 2 8.1 miles of resurfacing and shoulder rehabilitation on SR 32. Open: 12/31/11
GDOT District 5 Chandler County/Congressional District 12 .8 miles of widening for additional lanes on SR 23/SR 121. Open: 1/12/12
GDOT District 7 DeKalb County/Congressional District 5 .3 miles of culvert and bridge replacement with turn lane construction on SR 155 at Shoal Creek. Open: 4/16/12

12 www.dot.ga.gov

State control is key
I-75/575 Northwest Corridor Express Moves Forward

By David Spear
The Northwest Corridor Express (NWC) transportation improvement project on Interstate Highways 75 and 575 in Cobb and Cherokee counties is back on track. "This is a vital commuting and logistics corridor," Governor Nathan Deal noted. "Adding new lanes--and the new capacity they will provide--is critical to a continued high quality of life in Metropolitan Atlanta and to sustaining further economic growth for the region and for all of Georgia."
The NWC Express, formerly a part of the West by Northwest Public-Private Partnership (P3) procurement, was first planned for private firms to design and build the lanes, and make their money back from toll revenues. Governor Deal had concerns about private firms determining tolls and the state losing control over its ability to add other transportation facilities in the corridor. He asked GDOT for a better approach.
The project will build two new managed lanes along the west side of I-75 between its interchanges with I-285 and I-575. The lanes will separate from the existing interstate and be reversible so as to carry traffic southbound during the morning commute and northbound in the evening. Above the I-575 interchange, one new reversible lane will be added in the I-75 center median to Hickory Grove Road and a similar new I-575 lane will extend to Sixes Road. The total length of the project is about 30 miles. A variable-rate toll, based on traffic volume, will be charged for drivers using the lanes.

While the new version remains a P3, State Transportation Board Chairman Rudy Bowen said the method of delivery has changed. "It is streamlined, includes less private financing, and provides greater control for the state," Bowen explains. "GDOT will follow a `Design, Build, Finance' approach where the winning bidder is responsible for design, construction and limited early financing, to be repaid by the state from toll revenues after the facility is open."
The project is expected to have a design-build cost of $750-$850 million, with a total cost of $950 million. The Georgia General Assembly has designated $300 million of state motor fuel taxes carried over from previous years. The State has been approved to apply for a $270 million lowinterest Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan guarantee from the federal government and Georgia DOT has programmed $200 million from its construction budget. The private sector partner will provide 10-20 percent of the design-build cost, to be repaid by the State.
Five private sector groups responded to the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) issued in June. A shortlist of firms will receive a Request for Proposal (RFP) in December. Construction is expected to begin in 2014, with project completion in 2018.
"We need to make these improvements to our system, but we also have a responsibility to do so in a manner that best protects the sovereign interests of the state insuring that Georgia forever retains control of its assets, their use and their future development," the governor said."This does that; it is a much better way forward."
The NWC Express is a part of the Georgia Express Managed Lane System Plan (MLSP), a comprehensive, innovative, cost-effective approach to address two of the state's key challenges: decreasing transportation funding and growing traffic congestion. For more information on the MLSP, visit www.dot.ga.gov/managedlanes. For information on the NWC Express, visit www.georgiap3.com.

Summer 2012 Georgia Milepost 13

News for and about Employees of Georgia Department of Transportation

Charlie Williams and Jesse Stringer
Above & Beyond: Customer Service Award
By Julette Carter

MILEPOST has a new dimension. It now includes CONNECTOR--
Georgia DOT's employee newsletter.
CONNECTOR features letters, employee recognition, what's happening inside GDOT and essential information for employees.
So now, as well as reading CONNECTOR, employees receive the extra benefit of MILEPOST, which offers a broad view of what's
going on in transportation across Georgia.
And through CONNECTOR, the public can get to know us from the inside. CONNECTOR is a great way to meet the individuals that service Georgia's transportation the people who make
Georgia DOT one of the top DOTs in the country.
We hope you like our new dimension. As always, we welcome your comments. Email erothman@dot.ga.gov
mygdot.dot.ga.gov

Charlie Williams and Jesse Stringer accept award from Commissioner Keith Golden.

Charlie and Jesse do not normally work together; however, fate and circumstance brought them together on December 29, 2011--an ordinary work day that turned out to be so much more.
Charlie Williams (Maintenance Equipment Operator, District 4 Area Wide Crew) and Jesse Stringer (Equipment Operator 2, District 4 Area Wide Asphalt Crew) are model employees who not only strive for excellence while performing their everyday jobs, but also go above and beyond for others.
Williams, a true team player, stands ready to assist when needed. Even when called out at night to help with emergencies, he doesn't hesitate; he is there to perform. Williams is a dependable employee who goes above and beyond what is expected to serve his customers.
Stringer is on the snow and ice team and assists the northern districts when extra help is needed. He has worked many long hours at emergency events. Whether he is performing his day-to-day tasks or on a special assignment, he gives 110 percent effort. Stringer goes above and beyond to serve his customers.

On that fateful day, Charlie and Jesse were traveling on SR 37 in Calhoun County doing routine maintenance inspection--making sure lanes were clear and signs were in place. Their ordinary day turned into something extraordinary when they came upon an accident that had just happened. A van had left the roadway, and came to rest in a pond. Charlie and Jesse waded through the water and pulled the two children and the adult from the van to safety. After ensuring the individuals were safe on land, they notified their supervisor of the accident, who in turn notified the proper authorities.
Brad Cleveland, Area Engineer, District 4, nominated Williams and Stringer for the Commissioner's Commendation for Excellence in Customer Service. He says: These two employees' actions exemplify all the customer service qualities of being helpful, courteous, accessible, responsive and knowledgeable. Because of Charlie's and Jesse's quick thinking, brave action and willingness to go the extra mile, the lives of three people were saved; these men rescued and brought them to safety. We want to acknowledge these brave individuals and thank them for their service to the citizens of Georgia.

Recognize someone doing something exceptional! The Commissioner's Commendation for Excellence in Customer Service recognizes Georgia DOT employees or teams who consistently perform at a high level or go "above and beyond" in providing customer service to internal or external customers. To submit a nomination, contact Customer Service Manager Julie Carter at 404.631.1835 or jucarter@dot.ga.gov.
Commissioner's Commendation Winners: (March 2012) Tamrat ("Tim") Kassa, Special Studies Branch Chief, Planning Thomas Mims, Assistant District Maintenance Engineer, District 7 Jay Napoletano, Micro Systems Support, District 3 Traffic Operations Tiffany Robinson, ROW Specialist Trainee, ROW/Local Government Dwonna Smith, ROW Specialist, Property Inventory and Disposal Unit Jesse Stringer, Equipment Operator 2, District 4 Care Whitmore, Utilities Permit Engineer, Utilities Charlie Williams, Maintenance Equipment Operator, District 4

Summer 2012 Connector 15

Letters of Praise

Attn: Emergency Service Supervisor, ...On February 29, 2012 I had a tire blow out on I-75 just north of the downtown area just before the exit for I-85 north. I had just started to call for help when one of your emergency trucks pulled up and asked if I need help, which I did. I do not remember the name of your driver, but I would like to thank him and the two other service people who came to help. They had me out of harm's way in less than 30 minutes. They did a great service for me and my family.
The service you provide is great. I hope I never have to use it again, but if I do I hope that your staff is there. They do a fantastic job under very dangerous conditions.
Again, thanks for your help...Keep up the great job on the highways; all of us traveling in Georgia thank you.
Have a great day,
G. Mann Jr.

Hello, I wanted to comment on the most excellent service I received on I-85 by one of your HEROs (E. Redd #448).
My suburban truck hit some kind of metal and immediately punctured one of my tires. I was in a rock and a hard place between I-85 and the ramp of 285 east. Realizing my spare had no air, and the wait for my insurance company to get a tow truck would be a forever...E. Redd pulled up behind us and really saved my day and my wallet. She also saved time I can spend with my visiting mother which I barely get to see once a year for a few days. She was fast, kind, courteous, and professional. She knew exactly what to do and always kept safety as a focus!
I always see these HERO vehicles, but never knew our tax dollars paid for them. Please continue to do a great job and please offer some positive recognition to E. Redd.
Thanks again!

I've never had the opportunity to have any dealings with GA HERO, but on May 24, 2012 at 3 pm on I-675 south my wife had a blow out and even though she called me to change the tire a hero tech showed up and changed the tire for us. The impressive part of this story is the professionalism and courtesy shown by this man. I did not get his name and the only gratuity he would accept was a thank you and handshake. The truck number was 4520260. I hope this comment reaches the highest level of HERO and that this individual be provided a great atta boy. He truly exceeded the standards of service I would expect from a roadside assist. Thank you for a job well done.
D. O'Connor
Editor's note: the HERO referenced is Sam Khamphavanh

I was traveling on I-285 this morning when my tire blew out. Within minutes a HERO truck was there (I never made a call) and Patrick Dudley provided outstanding assistance. He confirmed I was okay and then proceeded to change my tire. After he finished I tried to give him $$ and he quickly declined and said something to the effect that "it was a blessing to help you." WOW, this is the caliber of employee I want working for me, Wasn't sure how to get this feedback to the right person, so I hope you will forward it on accordingly because I know that most feedback tends to be negative. I guess you can say HERO is my new HERO!
T. Anderson

H. Claudio
Editor's note: The HERO (Highway Emergency Response Operators) program is 80 percent federally funded, with the remaining 20 percent paid through a sponsorship by State Farm.
I live in Cobb but this morning at about 7 am I blew out a tire near the ramp from I-75 S to I-85 N. I called my roadside assistance but a HERO unit got to me first. I have nothing but admiration for the gentleman who came to my aid. He was so nice and literally risked his life to change my tire and get me to safety. What an amazing service and comfort to know that in an emergency the HERO units are staffed by such wonderful people. I didn't get his name - but he was great. Thanks for keeping me safe and being a true HERO!
K. Cahill

This is just a comment to thank the kind man who works for the GDOT that helped us. On May 18, 2012, around 6:30 pm, my family and I were traveling from Florida to Michigan. In the heart of Atlanta, right near the Peachtree St. exit on I-75, we had a flat tire. Needless to say we had to pull over and try to fix it. Driving through Atlanta is always a source of stress for us. Having a flat tire while driving through was exceedingly worrisome. Less than five minutes after pulling to the side of I-75, a large yellow truck with flashing red lights pulled up behind us. A member of your team got out and changed our tire for us. In less than 15 minutes from stopping, we were back on the road. This man was extremely kind and knew exactly what to do. He refused any money for his help, stating it was, "a free service." We did not get his name but wanted to extend another thank you to him. Too, we just wanted to mention that the top of his truck said H.E.R.O. This is how we felt about this man on that day. Thanks again.

16 www.dot.ga.gov

E. Dryer

You have two employees that went beyond what was expected of them. My father had a flat tire on the side of the road in Floyd County. Jesse Burkhalter and Richard Hollaran (District 6, Area 4, Area Wide Maintenance) stopped to assist my father and stayed and helped get him going again. I am a state employee as well, and I am very proud of our state employees that will go the extra mile to ensure that someone is taken care of. In my agency we call it good customer service, and these 2 individuals provided good customer service to my father. Very proud of them and the GDOT.
T. Hawkins
Please share your letters and e-mails with CONNECTOR. Email erothman@dot.ga.gov.

Summer 2012 Connector 17

District 5 receives best overall score
GDOT Equipment Operators Display Skills at Statewide Competition

By Liz Rothman

Safety and training were tops on the agenda for the GDOT Equipment Operators Safety and Training Conference held in May at the fairgrounds in Perry. Georgia DOT equipment operators from districts across the state avoided obstacles and maneuvered in tight spaces in events like parallel parking, alley dock and serpentine maneuvers. Each participant completed a pre-trip inspection test before starting their course event. The driving skills "roadeo" competition determined the "best" driver in six categories. Winners will participate in the Southeast Regional competition in September.

"We have some outstanding employees at GDOT; the display of technical skills during this event was amazing", said Georgia DOT State Maintenance Engineer Eric Pitts. "The operators performed intricate maneuvers while avoiding obstacles and while being timed. This shows the high level of expertise we have. I am proud of our staff and the work they perform often in dangerous conditions."
Best overall district score went to D5. Congratulations to all!

Single Axle Dump Truck 1st Robert Norwood, D5 2nd Demetrius Ford, D5 3rd John O'Hare, D5
Tandem Axle Dump Truck 1st Slade Gabriel, D1 2nd Mark Manning, D5 3rd Ken Harris, D5

Tractor Truck w/Lowboy Trailer 1st Rallie Ogburn, D3 2nd Alex Jenkins, D5 3rd Joey Anderson, D5
Motor Grader 1st James Spradley, D5 2nd James Nicholson, D6 3rd Hal G. (Greg) Free, D1

Backhoe 1st Jeff Weathers, D5 2nd Jesse Thurmond, D1 3rd Alex Johnson, D2
Tractor w/Mower 1st Jeff Sexton, D4 2nd Howell Scott, D6 3rd Robert Smith, D6

shorts

Tommy Pace (Bridge Inspection Technician III), was honored by the State Transportation Board with a resolution for his military service and dedication to our country. We are proud to welcome you back to GDOT!
Roadway signage unveiled for airport's new international terminal. Signs seemingly appeared overnight on Atlanta's roadways as GDOT District 7 personnel unveiled signage directing motorists to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and the new Maynard H. Jackson, Jr. International Terminal that opened in May. Domestic passengers access the terminal via I-85 and international passengers use I-75. "Developing and placing the signage was complicated," Commissioner Keith Golden said. "D7 did a terrific job in directing folks to where they need to go."

Update your Outlook profile in two minutes (or less). Great customer service begins with efficient processes so individuals can quickly get the help they need. Accurate contact information in Outlook is essential. Help GDOT reach its goal to have all employee Outlook profiles updated. Visit http://gdot-go-mead:8888.
Scholarship awards. The deadline to apply for a 2012 Georgia DOT Scholarship Award is September 1. GDOT employees and students majoring in a transportationrelated field and enrolled in an accredited college or university in the Southeastern U.S. are eligible. Visit mygdot and click on GDOT Scholarship Award.

18 wwwwww.d.doott.g.gaa.g.goovv

Congrats To All!

Retirees
(March 1 - June 1, 2012)
Robert T. Adams Myron K. Banks Marvin Bivins Shelia Hayes Brooks Kenneth O. Brown Martin L. Bryant Teresa Hammonds Bunch Kenneth H. Burton Gary Lamar Childers Marion L. Clements III Keith D. Collins Alan M. Dalton Thomas Lynch Daniel Jerry Davis Lloyd R. Davis Dennis J. Dewberry Ezekiel Dillingham Thomas Clyde Dodson Willie L. Drayton Roxann M. Eberhart Howard D. Edwards George E. Faulkner Horace M. Fuller Ronald Gee Ronald W. Harris Betty Jean Helms James C. Hicks Timothy Allen Jacks Mary J. Jackson Arthur Johnson Corliss H. Johnson Gregory J. Johnson Felecia H. Jones James T. Jones Steven J. Kish James Rufus Kitchings Andy Howard Lewis Fred A. Lindsey Jackie Paris Little Benny R. Lomineck Alvin Luther Lunsford Raymond Bryce Massey Raymond Matthew McKenzie Harry C. Milton Jerry V. Owens Carolyn S. Patterson Bryant R. Poole Johnny D. Quarles Jimmy Oliver Rogers Patricia Kaye Rubino Richard L. Salisbury Mickey D. Skipper Jack A. Sloan Calvin Lee Smith Ricky E. Smith Kevin Wayne Sprouse Eric L. Tatum Stephen A. Taunton Wayne M. Tippens Michael Torrence

Joe L. Walker Lester Ray Wallace Garland S. Whatley Lory E. White Donald E. Wiley Dale P. Williams Glenn Allen Williams Lillie Mae Williams Roosevelt Wilson Stephen G. Wilson
Service Anniversaries
(January 1 - July 31, 2012)
42 YEARS Rick W. Deaver Paul V. Liles Jr.
38 YEARS Janice S. Scott
34 YEARS June E. Brown
33 YEARS Nancy L. Bolen Stanley J. Brown Gene E. Burden Leroy Campbell Frances M. Castle Pamela G. Digsby Marlene Garrard Marvin L. Nicholson Doris Clarke Osby Mildred Angelin Swanger Roy D. Williams
32 YEARS Irene A. Belinfante Kim R. Brown Rebecca Ann Cabe Cynthia D. Christian Timothy S. Christian Cora Genese Butler Cofield Jennifer Harris-Dunham Gideon Henley Jr. Robert S. Knight Matthew Little Terry M. Rogers Richard E. Sawyer Lori T. Spiegel Lesa A. Walker Richard D. Williams Beauford L. Wright
31 YEARS David C. Adams Nicky Lee Brinkley Leonard Burch Donna Cunningham

Ricky E. Hardenbrook Donald J. Johnson Nanette Francine Lee Glenda Todd Maner John E. McKenzie Harold D. Mitchell Jr. Dorothy L. Morris Billy R. Terry Kenneth E. Thompson William B. Whitecotton Jeff Lamont Wilkes
30 YEARS Lionel Alexander III Melisa S. Allen Billy C. Boyd Thomas Perry Brantley Lola Ree Cates Larry J. Cooper Steven Lamar Gafford Jerry M. German Alex Johnson J. Scott Kordys James R. Price Jr. Gerald M. Ross James Robert Sams Richard E. Williams Stardina L. Wyche
25 YEARS Angela Thompson Alexander Angelia R. Anthony Cecilia J. Ashley Robert Stephen Ashley Clay C. Bastian Cemonia Beall Eddie B. Brown Lynn H. Brown Ocheler Otto Brown Charles J. Byrd II Betty Hitt Cone William H. Cooper Lawrence A. Copelan Jr. Samuel Morris Council Jamie Ellis Crisp Edison Crosby Lisa C. Deaton Wesley Morgan Duvall Kenny B. Dyer Roger Dale Fletcher Debbie T. Goff Hoyt Edward Gosnell Michael Gousha Rosemary C. Guy Robert E. Guyton Roy Hall Jr. Morris Charles Harmon Michael A. Harris Clarence Martin Hawkins Teresa A. Hickox Garry John Holcomb Thomas B. Howell David Allen Huff Lorna Ann Jefferson

John Wesley Jenkins Michael David Johnson Wyatt Clark Johnson Daniel Wayne Jones Ronnie K. Jones Marc C. Jordan Donald J. LaFrenier Michael F. Lumpkin Johnny Steve Matthews George William McCarter Willie Eation McCrary Izell McGruder Jr. Joseph Lanier Mixon Alesia H. Norman David Joe Pack James Merrill Page Jr. Curtis L. Perry Darin Glenn Purvis Genetha Rice-Singleton James Lamar Riggins Marshall R. Roberts Charles Edward Robinson Philip L. Sampson Dennis Steven Schreiber Gail P. Scott Richard E. Seckinger Terry Gene Shubert Travis Ken Silvers Ted Henry Simmons Edward Radney Simpson James S. Simpson Jr. Raymond M. Southerland Jerry Lee Spann Edwin Spell Patricia A. Spence Rachel C. Stevens Annette Henderson Stewart Roy Columbus Stewart Brent Andrew Thomas Stephen Foy Thomas Henry Lee Tucker Lewis B. Walker Terry L. Walker Bobby G. Watson Kenneth Paul Werho Howard Dale Westmoreland William R. Wilcher Mark J. Williams Quinton Bernard Williams Johnny R. Wilson Mattie Mae Wilson Jimmy D. Witherow Chris Douglas York Bradford G. Young
20 YEARS Deborah A. Ashley Charles Q. Banks Michael Bramlett Margaret L. Brown Dean Lennard Burgamy Jr. Kimberly R. Byers Samuel T. Caines Patrick N. Carmichael
Summer 2012 Connector 19

Congrats To All!continued

Kedrick P. Collins Jr. Brent E. Cook Henry Lee Covington Howard Danny Crane Normand E. Cressman Clyde Andrew Cunningham Robert E. Ensley Ronnie Faulks Norman Grate Doug James Grizzle Jerome Hannor Gerald T. Hargrove Michael Kendrick Hill Troy A. Hill Rene G. Hollie Robert William Holtapp Jr. John Cory Knox William Michael Lankford Stephen T. Malinak Bonnie Elizabeth Mason Ivan J. Mason Robert T. McCall Jr. Terrell B. McMillan John Roger Mealor Shawynne M. Oliver-Simmons Lloyd Duane Powell Nasser F. Rad Kelvin Sanford Michael A. Sapp Julius C. Simmons Jr. Vyrlin Dewayne Stone Shirley S. Sumner Dale Ervin Sutton Robert Paul Tanner Richard Lamar Taylor Dona Lee Welch Darrell Bruce Welsh James K. Whitlock Joe Anthony Williams Michael Larry Williams Ruby Favors Williams Thomas Lee Wilson Margaret Ann Yarbrough
15 YEARS Richard David Acree William Shane Adams Adesoji A. Adewale Merlene Allison Johnny Barber Barry Thomas Barnes Marcus G. Bennett Jr. Mark D. Bennett Kerby Blassingame Varick Braswell Denise Y. Brown Earl R. Brown Jr. Edward E. Brown Johnny Ray Burden Johnny L. Cantrell Samone McNeil Chapman Jerry F. Colston Robert Owen Cox Ralston Lee Crews

Tony J. Crosby Holly A. Cross Dwight Alvin Davis Jennifer L. Deems Mary Theresa Dunn Robert L. Edmond Jason L. Ellis Kendall Darwin Evans Tonya Renae Fair Charles D. Faulkner Mark Wayne Forsyth J.B. Gamble Sanders L. Gipson Van L. Green Michael Lane Griffith Stephanie M. Griner Bobby Warren Hardinger Laster Harper Darren Dewayne Hart Richard Hart Jr. Karen Elizabeth Higgins Carmen D. Hill Dexter Hobgood Christopher Lambert Horton James Croley Jackson Neil A. Kantner Wesley Jerome Kennedy Jr. John Louis Kent Jr. Sam Khamphavanh Manoucher Khoshnam Joseph B. King III Roxanne McIntosh Martin Luther Melton Michael Renaye Montfort Mary Delaine Morgan Michael Ray Moyer Kelvin H. Mullins James Edward Nicholson Alfred Roland Norton Justin J. Parrott Joseph W. Pedersen Marcia M. Phillips Barbara A. Pratt Chad J. Roberts Ernay L. Robinson Ralph Sales Steven S. Sanders Frank J. Seymour Arthur L. Smith Jr. Billy Joel Smith Brandon Antonio Steele Forrest W. Thompson Brian Keith Troha Alfred Turner Steven Henry Walker Janet Watts Tanya Chiquita West Nathaniel Whicker Henry Mcauthor White Otis Lee White Jr. Timothy J. Williams Lynda Chapman Willis Hayward L. Wood

20 www.dot.ga.gov

10 YEARS Andy William Adams Stephen Thomas Ainsworth Christopher B. Amos Hayward Anthony Andrews Charity L. Belford Charles I. Blue II Myriam D. Bracy Robert Milton Browning Jeremy T. Busby Jeffery L. Carroll Derrick D. Carson Terry D. Clark Isaac Matthew Clayton Roshare J. Cobbs Ginger Jones Collins Johnny W. Collins Mark E. Cook Christopher Corbin Michael C. Corn R. Joyce Cravey Gondra A. Crumbley Alvin Dywane Davis Veronica Maria Davis Elmer Clark Day Jr. Keith A. DeBowles Carlos Mallari Dizon Gary Bernard Dwight Jason Andrew Dykes Christopher J. Edmond Bradley R. Ehrman Christopher A. Ezell Kennon Clay Fagan Adams D. Ferguson Nathaniel Fisher Jr. Cassandra Evette Ford Douglas D. Franks Jill L. Franks Jeffrey Alan Graham Travis R. Graves David A. Gronbeck Brandon D. Harris Clarence Harris Alfonza Hill Bryan T. Hillyard Gerald Holley Barbara Gayle Holmes David A. Howard M. Aminul Islam Alex Berneil Johnson Ellen Marie Johnson Sharon Marie Johnson Theresa Mary Kaspereen Hollie T. Kendrick Joshua E. Kimbrell Casey D. Lane David Wayne Livingston Edward G. Long George A. Long Russell Irvin Maddox Clifton E. Marshall Monzy C. Mathews Desmoine D. Mathis James R. Mathis Raymond E. May

Renee Mays Amanda Lynn McCart Kevin L. Mercer Fletcher C. Miller Joshua Neil Miller Larry Morris Brent T. Murphy Barry C. Murray Matthew D. Needham Cassy Leanne Nettles Richard T. Parham Shannon Passmore David Miles Pinckney Curtis Dwayne Powell Troy R. Presley Randy Rathburn Jr. Cullen E. Reid Jr. Willis L. Richey Brennan Andrew Roney Laurie L. Ryan Ron K. Salter Curtis C. Scott Steven G. Seabolt Donnie L. Seay Ken Neal Simpson Toby L. Singleton Jane H. Smith Larry C. Smith Linda D. Smith Craig A. Solomon James A. Southerland Jr. Jerry R. Stewart Donald W. Taylor Joshua B. Taylor Stanford Lashawn Taylor Walter D. Taylor Lucretia A. Taylor-Gotel Atiya Jamila Thayer Ernest Thompson Melvin Thomas Timms Gayla E. Trice Tonya Tenille Turner Timothy E. Tyson Justin Luke Vaughn Tommy Dewayne Veal Wendell Wallace Albert Derwood Walton Tramonty Deshun Washington Larry Weaver Phillip Luther Webb Shane Donald Welborn David A. Westbrook Steve Ray Whitfield George B. Whittle IV Christa Laquanta Wilkinson Johnny Robert Williams Brian K. Woods Mark Edward Yelton

Then & Now in Georgia Transportation
The Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick, Georgia spans the Brunswick River in Glynn County. The bridge was named for nineteenth century Georgia poet Sidney Lanier who wrote The Marshes of Glynn, a poem that describes the area's saltwater marshes.
Then: The original Sidney Lanier Bridge was a lift bridge that opened in
1956. It was twice struck by ships; a 1972 hit caused partial collapse and resulted in 10 deaths. In 1987, the bridge was struck again. This undated photo of the original bridge is courtesy of Office of Bridge Design. Editor's note: The printed magazine contains an incorrect "Then" photo. This on-line version is correct. We regret the error.
Now: This photo (circa 2011) shows the current cable-stayed bridge that
was built in 2003 as a replacement to the original lift bridge. It is Georgia's tallest cable-stayed suspension bridge and longest spanning bridge. Photo source: CEDRIC MOHR cmohr@dot.ga.gov
Please share your Georgia transportation-related THEN & NOW photos with MILEPOST. Email: erothman@dot.ga.gov.

Georgia Department of Transportation Office of Communications One Georgia Center 600 West Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30308 Phone: 404.631.1990 www.dot.ga.gov
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Permission is granted to reprint material from Georgia Milepost if credit is given to the publication. 2012 Georgia Department of Transportation Office of Communications