Georgia Department of Transportation
Fact Book 2007
www.dot.ga.gov
Core Values
Core Values are enduring beliefs which Georgia DOT's leadership and employees hold in common and put into action. Core values answer the question, "How do we act as we move toward achieving our mission and vision?" Georgia DOT's leadership team identified the Department's core values to be: Committed, Accountable, Responsible and Ethical (C.A.R.E.).
Our Vision
Georgia's transportation system will always be a vital component of the state's future success and ability to compete in a global economy. Our team of motivated professionals and qualitydriven management will maintain and improve mobility by providing a safe, seamless, intermodal, environmentally-sensitive transportation system.
Executive Editors:
Director, Division of Communications Ericka Davis
Communications Administrator Karlene Barron
Assistant Administrator Internal Communications
Lillian Jackson Assistant Administrator External Communications
David Spear Publications Coordinator
Carla Murphy Editor/Design & Layout
Laurie Scott
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Organizational Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Congressional Districts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 State Transportation Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7 Organization & Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-20 Primary Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-23 Frequently Called Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Georgia DOT Districts & Area Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25-29 Geographic Information Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-31 Georgia DOT's Web Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Office of Strategic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Georgia Highway Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 National Highway System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Major Highway Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-41 Transportation Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42-47 High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Rideshare Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 Georgia 511 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 NAVIGATOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 HERO Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52 TIME Task Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Safe Routes to School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-55 Archaeology and Learning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-57 Transportation Enhancements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-59 Scenic Byways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60-61 Bicycle & Pedestrian Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63 Wildflower Auto Tag Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Litter Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 Public Transit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66-67 Rail Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-73 Aviation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74-75 Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76-77 Transportation Funding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78-80 Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81-87 Fast Facts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89-91
On the cover: The Georgia Department of Transportation is reconstucting the Interchange of I-85 and State Route 316 in Gwinnett County. One of the most extensive projects in Georgia DOT history, crews will construct 13 bridges, including two new flyovers (shown), and 11 miles of new Collector Distributor Lanes. The scheduled completion date is December 31, 2008.
3
4
Organizational Chart
Governor
Secretary to Board Elizabeth Osmon
Division of Communications Ericka Davis
Deputy Commissioner Buddy Gratton
People
State Transportation Board
General Assembly
Commissioner Gena L. Abraham, Ph.D.
Chief Engineer Gerald Ross
Executive Assistant Mike Dover
Treasurer Earl L. Mahfuz
Office of Communications Karlene Barron
Division of Information Technology Jeffrey Hill
Division of Legal Services Sandra Burgess
Office of State Aid Terry Gable
Office of IT Infrastructure
Gary Blanton
Office of Legal Services Kenneth Thompson, Jr.
Office of Human Resources
Mike Johnson
Office of Application Support
Doug Chambers
Office of Equipment Management Mike Malcom
Office of IT Business Practices Tony Williams
Effective January 1, 2008
Division of EEO
Michael Cooper
Office of EEO
Vacant
Division of Field Districts
Vacant
District 1 Russell McMurray
District 2 Tony Collins
District 3 Thomas Howell
District 4 Joe Sheffield
District 5 Glenn Durrence
District 6 Kent Sager
District 7 Bryant Poole
Executive Assistant Ben Rabun
Office of Engineering Services
Brian Summers
Environmental Compliance Bureau
Leigh Priestley
Division of Planning, Data, & Intermodal Development
Mike Thomas
Office of Intermodal Programs
Harvey Keepler
Office of Planning Angela Alexander
Office of Transportation Data
Jane H. Smith
Division of Preconstruction
Todd Long
Division of Construction
Greg Mayo
Assistant Director Genetha Rice-Singleton
Office of Bridge Design
Paul Liles
Office of Environment/
Location Glenn Bowman
Office of Program Delivery/ Consultant Design
Babs Abubakari
Office of Construction Randall Lee Hart
Office of Construction Claims
Matthew Cline
Office of Contracts Administration David Hoge
Office of Materials & Research
Georgene Geary
Division of Operations Steve Henry
Office of Maintenance David Crim
Office of Traffic Operations and Traffic Safety
Design Keith Golden
Office of Utilities Jeff Baker
Office of Right of Way Phil Copeland
Office of Road Design Brent Story
Office of Urban Design Ben Buchan
Executive Assistant Chris Jones
Division of Administration
Meg Pirkle
Office of Budget Services Angela Robinson
Office of General Accounting Dawn Maddox
Office of Financial Mgmt. Jamie Simpson
Office of Audits Beryl Renfroe
Office of General Support
Chip Meeks
Office of Air Transportation Dave Carmichael
Office of Strategic Development Jim Davis
Georgia's 13 Congressional Districts
Metro Area Detail Map
9
11
6
7
10
13
5
4
9
11 6
13
7
54
3
10
3
12 8
2 1
8 12
5
State Transportation Board
The Georgia DOT is governed by a 13-member State Transportation Board which exercises general control and supervision of the Department. The Board is entrusted with powers which include: naming the Commissioner; designating which public roads are encompassed within the state highway system; approving long-range transportation plans; overseeing the administration of construction contracts; and authorizing lease agreements. Board Members are elected by a majority of a General Assembly caucus from each of Georgia's thirteen congressional districts. Each board member serves a five-year term.
District 1 Roy Herrington
382 East Parker Street, P. O. Box 130 Baxley, GA 31515 (912) 367-7723 Fax (912) 367-1009
District 2 W.P. Billy Langdale
3140 Huntington Ridge Circle Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 242-3175 Fax (229) 242-3215
District 3 Sam Wellborn
2110 Oak Avenue Columbus, GA 31906 (706) 221-8193
District 4 Robert L. Brown, Jr.
250 E. Ponce de Leon Avenue, 8th floor Decatur, GA 30030-0126 (404) 377-2460 Fax (404) 377-5833
District 5 Emory McClinton
132 E. Lake Drive, SE Atlanta, GA 30317 (404) 377-5101 Fax (404) 373-3371
District 6 Garland Pinholster, Vice Chairman
1770 Flat Bottom Road Ball Ground, GA 30107 (770) 735-3928 Fax (770) 735-3928
6
District 7 Rudy Bowen
6650 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 200 Duluth, GA 30097 (678) 325-4570 Fax (678) 325-4540
District 8 Larry Walker
P. O. Box 1234 Perry, GA 31069 (478) 987-1415 Fax (478) 987-1077
District 9 Mike Evans, Chairman
212 Dahlonega Street Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 771-1000 Fax (678) 771-1329
District 10 Bill Kuhlke, Jr.
3704 Benchmark Drive Augusta, GA 30919 (706) 650-8722 Fax (706) 860-7363
District 11 David Doss
P. O. Box 431 Rome, GA 30162 (770) 291-9191 Fax (706) 291-1205
District 12 Raybon Anderson
P. O. Box 1447 Statesboro, GA 30458 (912) 764-9084 Fax (912) 489-2783
District 13 Dana L. Lemon
7943 Thrailkill Road Jonesboro, GA 30236 (770) 490-9125 Fax (770) 957-6118
7
STATE TRANSPORTATION BOARD
Board Members are elected by a majority of a General Assembly caucus from each of Georgia's 13 congressional districts. Each board member serves a five-year term. Terms alternate to ensure two members are elected each year.
Georgia DOT Board Secretary Elizabeth Osmon Suite 106 (404) 656-5211
Serves as the Board's liaison with legislators, local officials and the general public. Acts on behalf of the Board when requested and arranges and plans all Board meetings, workshops and conferences for the Board.
COMMISSIONER
Gena L. Abraham Suite 102 (404) 656-5206
Provides principle-centered leadership to effectively operate the Georgia Department of Transportation. Leads employees to provide a high standard of service to the citizens of Georgia so that multimodal transportation needs are met. Strives to fully utilize the talents of all employees and all other resources available to the Department.
Executive Assistant to the Commissioner Mike Dover Suite 102 (404) 656-5206
Coordinates and attends all of the Commissioner's meetings with state and local officials; coordinates with senior staff on behalf of the Commissioner; answers inquiries from State Transportation Board members, state and local officials and the public on various Department matters; assists the Commissioner with administrative duties and serves as a point of contact for the Commissioner's office for meeting requests and project updates.
DIVISION OF COMMUNICATIONS
Ericka Davis Director Suite 116 (404) 651-8329
Serves as chief communications, public affairs, and public outreach strategist for Georgia DOT. Advises and supports the Commissioner and her senior staff on all communications matters. Responsible for developing communications goals and measurable outcomes for the Division.
8
Office of Communications Karlene Barron Administrator Suite 315 (404) 463-6464
Serves as the Department's internal and external communications liaison and to the media and public. Oversees development of presentations and speeches for State Transportation Board Members, the Commissioner, Division Directors and office heads. Additionally, oversees the Department's major publications and content for Georgia DOT's Web page.
DEPUTY COMMISSIONER
Buddy Gratton Suite 108 (404) 656-5212
Assists the Commissioner in maintaining and operating the activities of Georgia DOT. Oversees the Special Staff offices, and the Information Technology, Equal Employment Opportunity, Field Districts and Legal Services divisions.
SPECIAL STAFF
Office of State Aid Terry Gable State Aid Administrator Suite 201 (404) 656-5185
Provides assistance to local governments through the County/City Contract Program (State Aid), the Local Assistance Road Program (LARP) and the off-system Bridge Program.
Office of Human Resources Mike Johnson Director Suite 270 (404) 656-5260
Develops, implements and administers all personnel-related functions and programs for the Department. These include benefits, recruiting, training, job evaluation and compensation, employee relations, performance management and personnel transaction processing and drug/alcohol testing program for commercial driver's license holders.
9
Office of Equipment Management Mike Malcom State Equipment Management Administrator 7565 Honey Creek Court, Lithonia, GA 30038 (770) 785-6947
Manages the Department's fleet, comprised of approximately 8,600 units. Directs and administers the program for statewide purchasing of vehicles and equipment. Determines vehicle and equipment replacement requirements, considering both budget and needs.
DIVISION OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Jeffrey Hill Director Suite 180 (404) 656-6034
Manages the Department's computer applications and computer network. Oversees Georgia DOT's electronic processing budget, configuration and asset management. Also develops information technology policy, standards and strategic planning functions.
Office of Information Technology Infrastructure Gary Blanton Administrator Suite 179 (404) 656-6034
Oversees the operation and management of the Department's computer hardware and software. This office consists of Database Support, Server Support, Network Support, Client Support and the Solutions Center.
Office of Application Support Doug Chambers Administrator West Annex (404) 463-2860 Ext. 103
Coordinates the operations of the Applications Development Section and an Applications Support Section. The Development Section manages the development of new applications and is also home to the Geographic Information System (GIS) coordination for the Department. The Support Section supports and maintains the Department's computer applications, including Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Web, COTS (off-the-shelf) and enterprise-wide shared resources.
10
Office of Information Technology Business Practices Tony Williams Administrator Suite 183 (404) 656-6034
Manages much of the administrative needs of the Information Technology Division through the Operations Group, the Configuration Management Group and the Policy and Standards Group. The Operations Group handles the day-to-day administrative duties, including personnel issues, payroll, leave records, budget and purchasing needs. The Configuration Management Group maintains records of all IT resources and also plays a major role in maintaining the Department's Asset Management for IT equipment. The Policy and Standards Group maintains and updates IT-related policies and standards in the Department.
DIVISION OF LEGAL SERVICES
Sandra Burgess Director Suite 329 (404) 656-5275
Advises the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner as well as senior staff on legal issues that might impact the Department at the federal and state level.
Office of Legal Services Kenneth Thompson, Jr. Legal Services Administrator Suite 321 (404) 657-5806
Provides legal research and other general legal assistance services concerning recurring issues of interest to the Department. Provides analysis of federal and state legislation and reviews consultant, local government and personal services contracts for legal accuracy.
DIVISION OF EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Michael Cooper Director Suite 142 (404) 656-5323
Ensures internal and external compliance with federal and state laws and guidelines as they relate to fair and equitable employment and business practices. This Division manages and operates the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) programs and monitors the On the Job Training (OJT) program.
11
Office of Equal Employment Opportunity
John Kirkpatrick E.E.O. Assistant Administrator Suite 142 (404) 656-5323
Patricia Flowers D.B.E. Assistant Administrator Suite 142 (404) 656-1710
Adheres to state and federal regulations as they pertain to civil rights issues concerning Title VI and Title VII of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. Monitors the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program and the state's contractor review for compliance.
DIVISION OF FIELD DISTRICTS
Director Position Vacant Suite 128 (404) 656-5214
Manages the operation and maintenance of the transportation system in each of Georgia DOT's seven districts to ensure proper utilization of resources and adherence to prevailing policies.
Georgia DOT Districts
District One-Gainesville Russell McMurry, District Engineer
District Two-Tennille Tony Collins, District Engineer
District Three-Thomaston Thomas B. Howell, District Engineer
District Four-Tifton Joe Sheffield, District Engineer
District Five-Jesup Glenn Durrence, District Engineer
District Six-Cartersville Kent Sager, District Engineer
District Seven-Chamblee Bryant Poole, District Engineer
(770) 532-5526 (478) 552-4601 (706) 646-6500 (229) 386-3280 (912) 427-5711 (770) 387-3600 (770) 986-1001
12
CHIEF ENGINEER
Gerald Ross Suite 122 (404) 656-5277
Supervises and directs all engineering-related activities within the Department to ensure the effective and efficient planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of transportation systems statewide. The divisions of Preconstruction, Operations, Transportation Planning, Data and Intermodal Development, Construction as well as the Offices of Engineering Services and Environmental Compliance report directly to the Chief Engineer.
Office of Engineering Services Brian Summers Project Review Engineer Suite 266 (404) 656-6843
Provides oversight of federally-funded projects. Directs project review process, manages standard specifications and provides project cost estimates.
Environmental Compliance Bureau Leigh Priestley Assistant Manager 276 Memorial Drive, SW (404) 463-1049
Provides assistance to all offices within the Department in order to ensure compliance with applicable state and federal environmental regulations.
DIVISION OF PLANNING, DATA & INTERMODAL DEVELOPMENT
Mike Thomas Director Suite 127 (404) 656-0610
Manages the statewide transportation planning process and the collection and sharing of transportation data, including vehicle volumes and the state route network. The Division researches, develops and implements transit, port, freight and passenger rail opportunities.
13
Office of Intermodal Programs Harvey Keepler Intermodal Programs Administrator West Annex (404) 651-9201
Manages Georgia's planning and operations programs in support of the transit, rail, port, waterway and aviation systems. Researches, develops and implements transit, port, freight and passenger rail opportunities across the state.
Office of Planning Angela Alexander State Transportation Planning Administrator Suite 372 (404) 656-5411
Manages Georgia's transportation planning program, in addition to developing the Statewide Transportation Plan (SWTP) and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Also manages the Department's Transportation Enhancement Program, designed to improve the quality of the transportation experience.
Office of Transportation Data Jane H. Smith Transportation Data Administrator 5025 New Peachtree Road, Chamblee, GA 30341 (770) 986-1360
Collects, processes and disseminates data to support transportation planners, designers and key decision-makers. The Office also oversees the administration of highway system and roadway functional classifications changes, and updates and distributes the official state of Georgia Highway and Transportation Map and county maps.
DIVISION OF PRECONSTRUCTION
Todd Long Director Suite 129 (404) 656-5187
Develops environmental studies, right-of-way plans, construction plans and bid documents through a cooperative effort that results in project design and implementation.
14
Office of Preconstruction Genetha Rice-Singleton Assistant Director of Preconstruction Suite 368 (404) 651-7455
Oversees the Plan Development Process (PDP), Georgia DOT Project Team Information (PTI) and Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) Status.
Office of Bridge Design Paul Liles State Bridge and Structural Design Engineer Suite 258 (404) 656-5280
Oversees structural design of highway bridges, culverts and retaining walls as well as the hydraulic design of bridge structures.
Office of Environment/Location Glenn Bowman State Environmental/Location Engineer 3993 Aviation Circle, Atlanta, GA 30336 (404) 699-4401
Oversees the environmental analysis and permitting of every project let to construction by the Department. This office also is responsible for location and feasibility studies for new projects, traffic projections, performing and processing aerial photography, and providing the surveys, mapping and cross-sections needed for construction plans and earthwork payment of contractors.
Office of Program Delivery/Consultant Design Babs Abubakari State Consultant Design Engineer Suite 432 (404) 463-6133
Enables the Department's compliance with federal and state guidelines as they relate to fair and equitable hiring and employee practices.
15
Office of Right-of-Way Phil Copeland Administrator Suite 409 (404) 656-5372
Manages the acquisition of properties necessary for transportation projects. Tasks include plan design review and approval, appraisal, relocation assistance, condemnation, negotiation and property management. Both DOT acquisitions as well as local government acquisitions (if they include state or federal funds) are monitored by this office.
Office of Road Design Brent Story State Road and Airport Design Engineer Suite 444 (404) 656-5386
Manages the conceptual development and design of roadways, including the preparation of preliminary construction plans, right-of-way plans and final construction plans. Develops and designs roadways outside of the urban area boundaries, including the Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) and the rural interstate system.
Office of Urban Design Ben Buchan State Urban Design Engineer Suite 356 (404) 656-5436
Develops and coordinates conceptual layouts, preliminary and final construction plans and right-of-way plans for projects within major urban areas. Responsibilities include extensive public involvement with federal and state agencies, local governments, neighborhoods, businesses and the general public.
DIVISION OF CONSTRUCTION
Greg Mayo Director Suite 134 (404) 656-5207
Oversees project advertising, letting and awards; oversight of construction projects; transportation research; testing of materials; contract payments and contract claims.
16
Office of Construction Randall Lee Hart State Construction Engineer Suite 237 (404) 656-5306
Investigates citizens' concerns on projects and assists in timely problem resolution. Reviews and approves contract modifications and communicates with construction industry.
Office of Construction Claims Matthew Cline Transportation Engineer Administrator Suite 209 (404) 656-2106
Reviews, analyzes, negotiates, mediates and directs the Department's defense against construction claims and lawsuits filed by contractors.
Office of Contracts Administration David Hoge State Transportation Office Engineer Suite 223 (404) 656-5325
Prepares and ensures proper execution of bid proposals, letting process and contracts. Audits contract payment process.
Office of Materials and Research Georgene Geary State Materials & Research Administrator (404) 363-7512
Tests materials used in construction and maintenance activities, maintains qualified products lists and provides expertise in construction materials. Also specifies material requirements, provides geotechnical services and manages Department's research efforts.
DIVISION OF OPERATIONS
Steve Henry Director Transportation Management Center 935 E. Confederate Ave., Atlanta, GA 30316 (404) 656-5214
Ensures a safe and efficient transportation system by setting policies that control operational features, address maintenance needs and regulate the proper use of the state highway system.
17
Office of Maintenance David Crim State Maintenance Engineer Transportation Management Center (404) 635-8734
Coordinates all statewide maintenance activities such as bridge and sign maintenance, landscaping, the Wildflower Program, roadway striping, routine maintenance of state highway system, emergency response and the Adopt-a-Highway Program. Develops contract documents for letting maintenance projects.
Office of Traffic Operations and Traffic Safety Design
Keith Golden State Traffic Engineer Transportation Management Center (404) 635-8115
Coordinates traffic engineering, traffic safety, traffic management and incident management statewide. Oversees programs that include vehicle crash analysis and reporting, traffic studies, traffic engineering, general operations, intelligent transportation systems, the HERO program, and access management. Provides design services for safety improvements, pavement markings and traffic signals, signing, implementation of the intelligent transportation system and the Governor's Fast Forward programs.
Office of Utilities
Jeff Baker State Utilities Engineer Transportation Management Center (404) 635-8045
Develops and administers reasonable utility and railroad policies, procedures, standards and regulations for the safe and efficient use of highway right-of-way. Provides expert technical assistance and functional guidance on utility and railroad encroachments, adjustments, relocations, agreements and billings to meet diverse needs of stakeholders.
TREASURER
Earl L. Mahfuz Suite 148 (404) 656-5224
Manages all financial matters for the Georgia DOT. Responsible for acquiring and accounting for all funds the Department is entitled to receive. Develops policies for administering funds. Oversees the Division of Administration as well as the Audits, General Support, Air Transportation and Strategic Development offices.
18
DIVISION OF ADMINISTRATION
Meg Pirkle Director Suite 143 (404) 656-5239
Manages and oversees statewide administrative activities for the Georgia DOT. Handles the payroll for all employees and provides payment to contractors, consultants and all vendors doing business with the Department. Maintains all accounting records, tracks project expenditures and prepares financial statements for the Department. Develops and manages the Department's budget.
Office of Budget Services Angela Robinson Budget Administrator Suite 150 (404) 656-5237
Develops and manages the nearly $2 billion budget of the Department. Serves as an advisor to the Treasurer and upper management in funding matters. Also serves as liaison to the Office of Planning & Budget and the Legislative Budget Office.
Office of General Accounting Dawn Maddox Transportation Accounts Administrator Suite 169 (404) 656-5193
Manages the payout and receipt of the Department's funds, which includes issuing checks to vendors, contractors, cities/counties, consultants and commodity/service vendors. Also handles payroll and travel reimbursement for nearly 6,000 employees. Other tasks include keeping the Department's books of accounts and assuring all accounting records are accurate and are prepared in a timely manner.
Office of Financial Management Jamie Simpson Financial Management Administrator Suite 170 (404) 463-2799
Prepares and manages the Department's six-year Construction Work Program (CWP) and project information system (TPro). Requests and prepares documents for authorization and billing for federal aid, bond and state funds. Develops, submits and tracks project expenditures in the Department's project accounting system (PeopleSoft).
19
Office of Audits Beryl Renfroe Transportation Accounts Administrator Suite 301 (404) 656-5247
Examines the financial matters of all architectural and engineering consultants who work for the Department. This includes accounting system reviews, pre-award reviews, overhead and incurred cost and final cost audits. Other types of reviews include railroads, utilities, transit bills and special audits. In addition, the Office prepares and reviews the Department's financial statements for inclusion in the state's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
Office of General Support Chip Meeks Transportation Accounts Administrator Suite 170 (404) 656-5239
Provides all offices with office equipment and supplies. The Office is comprised of Asset Management/Telecommunication, Cost Accounting and Inventory Control, Procurement, Facility Management, Fuel and Purchasing Card Program Administration, Records Management, General Office Motor Pool and Warehouse and Safety/Risk Management units.
Office of Air Transportation Dave Carmichael Air Transportation Administrator 175 South Airport Road, Atlanta, GA 30336 (404) 699-4483
Operates and maintains a fleet of six aircraft, based at Charlie Brown/Fulton County Airport. Also provides air transportation for state officials and conducts aerial photography flights to acquire precision mapping for the complete design and construction of highways.
Office of Strategic Development Jim Davis Administrator 276 Memorial Drive, Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 656-5181
Oversees employee training and development, organizational development, strategic planning and strategic management.
20
PRIMARY CONTACTS
Commissioner/Special Staff
Gena L. Abraham Commissioner
Buddy Gratton Deputy Commissioner
Gerald Ross Chief Engineer
Mike Dover Executive Assistant to Commissioner
Ben Rabun Executive Assistant to Chief Engineer
Brian Summers Project Review Engineer
Terry Gable State Aid Administrator
Mike Malcom Statewide Equipment Management Administrator.
Mike Johnson Director of Human Resources
Elizabeth Osmon DOT Board Secretary
Division of Communications
Ericka Davis Director of Communications
Karlene Barron Office of Communications Administrator
Division of Information Technology
Jeffrey Hill Director of Information Technology
Gary Blanton Office of Infrastructure Administrator
Doug Chambers Office of I.T. Applications Administrator
Tony Williams Office of I.T. Business Practices
Division of Legal Services
Sandra Burgess Director of Legal Services
Kenneth Thompson, Jr. Legal Services Administrator
Division of Equal Employment Opportunity
Michael Cooper Director
Email Address/Phone #
gabraham@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5206 bgratton@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5212 gross@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5277 mdover@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5206 brabun@dot.ga.gov (404) 651-8355 bsummers@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-6843 tgable@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5185 mmalcom@dot.ga.gov (770) 785-6947 mikjohnson@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5260 eosmon@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5211
Email Address/Phone #
erdavis@dot.ga.gov (404) 651-8329 kbarron@dot.ga.gov (404) 463-6464
Email Address/Phone #
jhill@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-6034 gblanton@dot.ga.gov (404) 651-7136 dchambers@dot.ga.gov (404) 463-2860 Ext. 103 twilliams@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-6034
Email Address/Phone #
sburgess@dot.ga.gov (404) 657-5808 kethompson@dot.ga.gov (404) 657-5806
Email Address/Phone #
mcooper@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5323
21
PRIMARY CONTACTS
Division of Field Districts
Email Address/Phone #
Vacant Director of Field Districts
Russell McMurry District One - Gainesville
Tony Collins District Two - Tennille
Thomas Howell District Three - Thomaston
Joe Sheffield District Four - Tifton
Glenn Durrence District Five - Jesup
Kent Sager District Six - Cartersville
Bryant Poole District Seven - Metro Atlanta
(404) 656-5214
rmcmurry@dot.ga.gov (770) 532-5526
tcollins@dot.ga.gov (478) 552-4601
thowell@dot.ga.gov (706) 646-6500
josheffield@dot.ga.gov (229) 386-3280
gdurrence@dot.ga.gov (912) 427-5711
ksager@dot.ga.gov (770) 387-3602
bpoole@dot.ga.gov (770) 986-1011
Division of Planning, Data & Intermodal Development
Email Address/Phone #
Mike Thomas Director of Planning, Data, & Intermodal
Harvey Keepler Intermodal Programs Administrator
Angela Alexander State Transportation Planning Administrator
Jane H. Smith State Transportation Data Administrator
mthomas@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-0610
hkeepler@dot.ga.gov (404) 651-9200
aalexander@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5411
jhsmith@dot.ga.gov (770) 986-1360
Division of Preconstruction
Email Address/Phone #
Todd Long Director of Preconstruction
Genetha Rice-Singleton Assistant Director of Preconstruction
Paul Liles State Bridge/Structural Design Engineer
Glenn Bowman State Environmental/Location Engineer
Babs Abubakari State Consultant Design Engineer
Phil Copeland State Right-of-Way Administrator
Brent Story State Road & Airport Design Engineer
Ben Buchan State Urban Design Engineer
tlong@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5187
grice-singleton@dot.ga.gov (404) 651-7455
pliles@dot.ga.gov 404) 656-5280
gbowman@dot.ga.gov (404) 699-4401
babubakari@dot.ga.gov (404) 463-6133
hcopeland@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5372
bstory@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5386
bbuchan@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5436
22
PRIMARY CONTACTS
Division of Construction
Email Address/Phone #
Greg Mayo Director of Construction
Randall Lee Hart State Construction Engineer
Matthew Cline Trans. Eng. Administrator-Construction Claims
David Hoge State Trans. Office Engineer-Contract Administrator
Georgene Geary State Materials & Research Administrator
gmayo@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5207
rhart@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5306
mcline@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-2106
dhoge@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5325
ggeary@dot.ga.gov (404) 363-7512
Division of Operations
Email Address/Phone #
Steve Henry Director of Operations
David Crim State Maintenance Engineer
Keith Golden State Traffic Operations Engineer
Jeff Baker State Utilities Engineer
Mark Demidovich Assistant State Traffic Operations Engineer
Kathleen Gibson Oversize Permit Unit Administrator
Office of the Treasurer/ Division of Administration
Earl Mahfuz Treasurer
Meg Pirkle Director of Administration
Angela Robinson Budget Administrator
Dawn Maddox Trans. Accounts Administrator-General Acct.
Jamie Simpson Financial Management Administrator
Beryl Renfroe Trans. Accounts Administrator-Audits
Chip Meeks Trans. Accounts Administrator-General Support
shenry@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5214
dcrim@dot.ga.gov (404) 635-8734
kgolden@dot.ga.gov (404) 635-8115
jbaker@dot.ga.gov (404) 635-8045
mdemidovich@dot.ga.gov (404) 635-8014
kgibson@dot.ga.gov (404) 635-8176
Email Address/Phone #
emahfuz@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5224
mpirkle@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5239
abowen@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5237
dmaddox@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5193
jasimpson@dot.ga.gov (404) 463-2799
brenfroe@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5247
cmeeks@dot.ga.gov (404) 463-6029
Dave Carmichael Air Transportation Administrator
Jim Davis Strategic Development Administrator
dcarmichael@dot.ga.gov (404) 699-4483
jadavis@dot.ga.gov (404) 656-5181
23
FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS
INFORMATION CONTACT
PHONE #
Georgia DOT Main Information Line
(404) 656-5267
Accident Location Sites
Traffic Safety & Design
(404) 635-8131
Adopt-A-Highway Bicycle Paths Auto Tags & Title
Maintenance Office State Bicycle & Pedestrian Coordinator Georgia Department of Revenue
(404) 635-8174 (404) 657-6692 (404) 362-6500
Commercial
Georgia Department of Driver Services (404) 624-7211
Vehicle Enforcement
Drivers License Information
www.dds.ga.gov
(404) 657-9300 (678) 413-8400
Handicap Parking Permits
www.dds.ga.gov/drivers/
(404) 362-6500
Motor Vehicle Reports
www.dds.ga.gov
(678) 413-8400
Driveway Permits
Traffic Safety and Design
(404) 635-8042
GA 400 Cruise Cards/Violations Natural Disasters
State Road and Tollway Authority
1. Contact local law enforcement agency 24-Hour Line
2. Contact GEMA
(404) 893-6161 (404) 635-7000
(404) 635-7200
Outdoor Advertising Maintenance Activities Unit
(404) 651-9217
Overweight Truck Permits
Rest Areas Road Work
Oversize Permit Unit
Office of Maintenance Office of Construction
1-800-570-5428 Customer Service1-888-262-8306
(404) 635-8174
(404) 656-5306
State Maps
Map Sales Unit
(770) 986-1436
Traffic Counts
Traffic Count Customer Service
(770) 986-1436
Traffic Incident Mgt. Enhancement
TIME Task Force General Info
(404) 635-8463
Traffic Signals
(404) 635-8000
Transp. Enhancement Statewide Planning Bureau Program
(404) 656-5411
Transp. Mgt Center Info
(404) 635-6800
Real-Time Traffic Information
Georgia 511 www.511ga.org
Dial 511
Wildflower Program Office of Maintenance
(404) 635-8174
For Georgians seeking state services but don't know who to call, please dial 1-800-Georgia or 404-656-2000.
24
DADE
CATOOSAHITFIELDMURRAY
FANNIN
WALKER
6W
GILMER
TOWNS UNION
RABUN
HABERSHAM
Car tersville CHATTOOGA
GORDON
PICKENS
WHITE LUMPKIN
1 DAWSON
STEPHENS
FRANKLIN BANKS
FLOYD
CHEROKEE
HALL
BARTOW
Gainesville FORSYTH
JACKSON
HART
MADISON ELBERT
PAULDING
POLK HARALSON
7COBB
BARROW
GWINNETT
CLARKE
OGLETHORPE
Chamblee DOUGLAS
DEKALB
OCONEE WALTON
WILKES
FULTON
Georgia DOT District Map
LINCOLN
ROCKDALE
FAYETTE CLAYTON
CARROLL
HEARD
COWETA
TROUP
MERIWETHER
McDUFFIE
HENRY
NEWTON
MORGAN
GREENE
TALIAFERRO
COLUMBIA
WARREN
SPALDING
JASPER BUTTS
PUTNAM
2 HANCOCK
GLASCOCK
RICHMOND
PIKE LAMAR
Tennille BALDWIN
JEFFERSON
BURKE
MONROE
JONES
WASHINGTON
UPSON
HARRIS
3TALBOT
CRAWFORD
BIBB
WILKINSON
TWIGGS
JOHNSON
JENKINS
SCREVEN
Thomaston MUSCOGEE
TAYLOR
PEACH
CHATTA- MARION
MACON
HOUSTON
HOOCHEE
BLECKLEY
LAURENS
EMANUEL
TREUTLEN
CANDLER BULLOCH
EFFINGHAM
MONTGOMERY
SCHLEY
STEWART
EBSTER W
SUMTER
AN QUITM
TERRELL
RANDOLPH
LEE
DOOLY
PULASKI DODGE
WHEELER
CRISP
WILCOX
TELFAIR
TURNER
BEN HILL
JEFF DAVIS
TOOMBS
EVANS
TATTNALL
BRYAN
CHATHAM
5APPLING
LIBERTY LONG
CLAY EARLY
CALHOUN DOUGHERTY
4
BAKER
WORTH
IRWIN TIFT
MILLER
Tifton MITCHELL
COLQUITT
BERRIEN
COOK
COFFEE ATKINSON
Jesup BACON
WAYNE
PIERCE
WARE
BRANTLEY
McINTOSH GLYNN
SEMINOLE LANIER
DECATUR
GRADY
THOMAS
LOWNDES BROOKS
CLINCH
CHARLTON CAMDEN
ECHOLS
The Georgia Department of Transportation is divided into seven districts which are responsible for operating and maintaining the transportation system at the local level. Each district has a District Engineer, who is responsible for planning, organizing and directing the activities of the district. The districts are subdivided by area offices which are overseen by Area Engineers.
25
District One
1
District Engineer: Russell McMurry (770) 532-5526 2505 Athens Highway, SE P.O. Box 1057 Gainesville, GA 30503
Communications Officer: Teri Pope (770) 718-3924 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d1/Index.shtml
Area Offices Gainesville Clarkesville Carnesville Cleveland Lawrenceville Athens
Counties Served Dawson, Forsyth, Hall Banks, Habersham, Rabun, Stephens Elbert, Franklin, Hart, Madison Lumpkin, Union, Towns, White Barrow, Gwinnett Clarke, Jackson, Oconee, Walton
Phone (770) 535-5759 (706) 754-9559 (706) 384-7269 (706) 348-4848 (770) 339-2308 (706) 369-5627
District Two
District Engineer: Tony Collins (478) 552-4600
2
801 Highway 15 South
P.O. Box 8
Tennille, GA 31089-0008
Communications Officer: Cissy McNure (478) 552-4656 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d2/Index.shtml
Area Offices Sandersville Swainsboro Louisville Augusta Madison
Milledgeville Dublin
Counties Served Glascock, Hancock, Washington, Johnson Emanuel, Jenkins, Screven Burke, Jefferson, McDuffe, Warren Columbia, Lincoln, Richmond, Wilkes Greene, Morgan, Newton, Oglethorpe, Taliaferro Baldwin, Jasper, Putnam, Wilkinson Bleckley, Dodge, Laurens, Treutlen
Phone (478) 552-2464 (478) 289-2614 (478) 625-3681 (706) 855-3466 (706) 343-5836
(478) 445-5130 (478) 275-6596
26
District Three
District Engineer: Thomas B. Howell (706) 646-6900
3
115 Transportation Boulevard
Thomaston, GA 30286
Communications Officer: Kimberly Larson (706) 646-6938 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d3/Index.shtml
Area Offices Thomaston Americus Perry Macon Griffin LaGrange Columbus
Counties Served Crawford, Upson, Taylor, Pike, Lamar Marion, Schley, Stewart, Sumter, Webster Dooley, Houston, Macon, Peach, Pulaski Bibb, Jones, Monroe, Twiggs Butts, Fayette, Henry, Spalding Coweta, Heard, Meriwether, Troup Chattahoochee, Harris, Muscogee, Talbot
Phone (706) 646-6100 (229) 931-2434 (478) 988-7151 (478) 757-2601 (770) 228-7205 (706) 845-4115 (706) 568-2165
District Four
District Engineer: Joe Sheffield
4
(229) 386-3280
710 West 2nd Street
P.O. Box 7510
Tifton, GA 31793-7510
Communications Officer: Craig Solomon (229) 391-6852 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d4/Index.shtml
Area Offices Valdosta Douglas Fitzgerald Moultrie Albany Cuthbert
Donalsonville I-75 Reconstruction
Counties Served Clinch, Echols, Lanier, Lowndes Atkinson, Coffee, Berrien, Irwin Ben Hill, Crisp, Turner, Wilcox, Worth Brooks, Colquitt, Tift, Thomas, Cook Baker, Dougherty, Lee, Mitchell Calhoun, Clay, Early, Quitman, Randolph, Terrell Decatur, Grady, Miller, Seminole Crisp, Turner, Tift, Cook, Lowndes
Phone (229) 333-5287 (912) 389-4201 (229) 426-5244 (229) 891-7130 (229) 430-4198 (229) 732-3066
(229) 524-5760 (229) 556-9433
27
District Five
District Engineer: Glenn Durrence (912) 427-5700
5
204 North Highway 301
P.O. Box 610
Jesup, GA 31598
Communications Officer: Brenda Howard (912) 530-4075 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d5/Index.shtml
Area Offices Baxley
Waycross Brunswick Glennville Savannah Statesboro
Counties Served Appling, Jeff Davis, Telfair, Wheeler, Montgomery Charlton, Brantley, Pierce, Ware, Bacon Camden, Glynn, McIntosh Long, Tattnall, Toombs, Wayne, Liberty Chatham, Bryan
Bulloch, Candler, Effingham, Evans
Phone (912) 366-1090
(912) 285-6009 (912) 264-7247 (912) 654-2940 (912) 651-2144 (912) 871-1103
District Six
District Engineer: Kent Sager
6
(770) 387-3602
500 Joe Frank Harris Parkway
P.O. Box 10
Cartersville, GA 30120-0010
Communications Officer: Mohamed Arafa (770) 387-4081 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d6/Index.shtml
Area Offices Cartersville Ellijay Dalton Rome Buchanan
Counties Served Bartow, Cherokee, Gordon Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens Catoosa, Dade, Murray, Walker, Whitfield Chattooga, Floyd, Polk Haralson, Paulding, Carroll
Phone (770) 387-3680 (706) 635-5551 (706) 272-2211 (706) 295-6025 (770) 646-5522
28
District Seven
District Engineer: Bryant Poole
7
(770) 986-1011
5025 New Peachtree Road
Chamblee, GA 30341
Communications Officer: Katina Lear (770) 986-2801 Web site: www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/fielddistricts/d7/Index.shtml
Area Offices Decatur Marietta Hapeville Atlanta
Counties Served DeKalb, Rockdale Cobb, North Fulton Clayton, South Fulton, Douglas City of Atlanta
Phone (404) 299-4386 (770) 528-3238 (404) 559-6699 (404) 624-2444
District Responsibilities:
Roadway Maintenance and Operations Roadway Location and Design Construction Contract Administration Utility Conflicts (permits & relocation) Right-of-Way Acquisition Environmental Review
Highway Beautification Coordination of Transit Systems Traffic Signals and Signs Permits Park & Ride Lots Public Outreach
Area Offices Responsibilities:
Highway Construction Supervision Right-of-Way Mowing Litter Removal Rest Areas Utility and Driveway Permits
Sign Maintenance Drainage Maintenance Storm Damage Repair Roadway Maintenance
29
Geographic Information System (GIS)
The Geographic Information System (GIS) links data containing a place or a location to mapping or geospatial data. It is a collection of computer software, hardware, and data used to store, manipulate, analyze, and display geographically-referenced information. Software applications are used or developed to facilitate geospatial data collection, analysis, or visualization. Commonly, geospatial data is arranged as "layers" of information, one on top of the other, for viewing and analysis. Users ask questions through the "layers" of data concerning a specific location or area of interest. This gives the Department a better understanding of spatial relationships or where things are in relation to each other. For example, what bridges would be affected by a new road widening project or what is the traffic volume within a mile of the interstate? These results can then be presented as maps, graphs and tables.
GIS within Georgia DOT
Through a variety of business functions, the Georgia DOT collects a significant amount of data that references a location, such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) coordinate of a truck weigh station. Locations also can be collected as a street address, a zip code, or more commonly in the Georgia DOT as a route number and mile marker. This data is then loaded or published to a centralized database repository that contains additional geospatial data. The database is
organized to bring together all of these different types of location referencing methods. This allows multiple software applications across the Department to all work with the same mapping information. Georgia DOT is implementing an Enterprise GIS (EGIS) Program to better leverage this technology to support the mission of the Department. Overall, the Georgia DOT GIS is used and developed to improve transportation decision-making and operational efficiency.
Georgia DOT GIS Data for the Public
GIS is being used in a variety of Web applications on the Internet to serve the information and business needs of the general public. For example, the Transportation Explorer (TREX) (http://trex.dot.state.ga.us) application provides the public with the locations of active and planned transportation projects in their neighborhoods.
30
Transportation Explorer 3
Transportation Explorer 3 is currently under development. The task bars expand and contract to incorporate more functionality. Several of the toolbars now float on top of the screen and can be moved around. These toolbars allow users to measure, select, buffer, apply transparency to a map layer, or use a query builder. The new buffering tool allows users to select a distance around any layer to query. Buffering helps users find out how many crashes, bridges, or schools are within a few miles of a project. The application also allows users to expand or contract portions of the screen to see more of the map.
Utility companies use the Georgia Utilities Permitting System (GUPS) to request permits for constructing or moving utilities. The Department designed the GUPS permitting system with the goal of reducing the time and costs associated with permitting utility facilities on our state highway system. Phase two and three of the GUPS system are presently being developed. Once fully implemented, a utility owner or operator can submit a permit in the morning and have their crews working the next day.
Property developers might use the Access Management Permitting System (AMPS) to request permission to connect the traffic from a new subdivision to a state route.
The AMPS system tracks permit requests in each district and provides a customer service status page, which is linked to the Georgia DOT Web page. Customers can access basic information online with a tracking number assigned at the time the request is made. It also allows customers to make their initial request online by following the link on the Web site.
Georgia DOT, along with other state agencies, also provides the GIS data to the public through the Georgia GIS Data Clearinghouse (http://gis.state.ga.us).
GIS Facts
Georgia DOT's GIS is one of the largest implementations of GIS technology among all state agencies.
Arc GIS Desktop Client is the primary GIS software of the Department. Over 200 power users in the Department run and operate this software to perform GIS mapping and analysis.
The Enterprise GIS Group estimates that there are over 17,430 users of GIS-based applications on a monthly basis serving internal and external customers. External customers comprise 74 percent of the usage.
External transportation partners in utilities (BellSouth, Southern Power); federal agencies (Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Environmental Protection Agency); the U.S. military (Army Logistics); local governments; Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPO's); Regional Development Centers; and contractors/consultants rely on the Georgia DOT GIS as a customer service.
31
Georgia DOT Web Site www.dot.ga.gov
What the Web site has to offer:
z General Information on Georgia DOT z Local Government Services z Traveler Information and Traffic Conditions z Construction Information z Maps z Specifications for Doing Business with
Georgia DOT
z Online Bidding z Permits z Training Opportunities z Transportation Data z Transportation Programs
32
Office of Strategic Development (OSD)
OSD Mission Statement
The Office of Strategic Development contributes to the success of the Department by promoting strategic management, professional development and organizational effectiveness.
The Office of Strategic Development (OSD) provides the tools needed for Georgia DOT's employees to succeed and for the Department to achieve its mission. The Office's three primary units -- Training & Development, LTAP and Strategic Management Group -- collaborate and use proven management principles and sound business practices to help employees align their goals and actions with the Department's vision and mission, promoting the success of the Department as well as the employees.
Training & Development
The courses and programs we offer are facilitated by instructors from the State Personnel Administration, Federal Highway Administration, consulting firms, other state agencies and our own Georgia DOT training staff.
Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP)
LTAP facilitates the transfer of technology from the Federal Highway Administration and Georgia DOT to municipal and county transportation professionals statewide. Through LTAP, the Department delivers transportationrelated technical information, research updates and skills training by distributing technical publications and providing onsite training and workshops, all at low or no cost to local government agencies. The program brings to
municipalities and counties national and local expertise to assist them in meeting the development needs of public works employees. LTAP helps to ensure the construction and maintenance of high-quality local roads throughout the state.
Strategic Management Group
The Georgia DOT Strategic Management Group performs in a consultative role, providing services to develop, facilitate and support the implementation of organizational strategic planning, management, performance measurement and process improvement.
The Strategic Management Group provides an array of services: assisting leadership in establishing and refining Georgia DOT's goals, objectives and strategies; facilitating the development of performance measures to track progress and promote accountability; working with offices and districts to refine their scorecards; identifying and recommending changes needed
to improve performance for accomplishing Georgia DOT goals; assisting leadership with the annual development of business measures for the Governor's Prioritized Program Budget; encouraging the use of principle-centered leadership within the Department to communicate the basic principles of creating and leading effective teams; developing the competencies that will enable Georgia DOT to grow its production capability and improve the quality of first-line, mid-level, and top transportation management; and supporting legislative liaison process during the annual session.
33
Georgia Highway Statistics
Roadway Miles 2007
Rural Areas
Mileage
Statewide Highway System* Interstates County Roads
14,061 715
62,441
City Streets
3,514
Small Urban Areas
Statewide Highway System*
1,076
Interstates
69
County Roads
2,734
City Streets
3,428
Urban Areas
Statewide Highway System*
2,958
Interstates
460
County Roads
19,384
City Streets
7,642
* State Highway System includes Interstates
Daily Vehicle Miles Traveled
76,121,775 28,234,667 34,659,833
1,991,734
13,456,954 3,634,372 3,747,315 4,253,890
103,645,833 51,488,796 50,352,024 17,098,184
Miles of Georgia Road 2007
100,000 80,000
84,559
The Georgia Department of Transportation provides a safe and efficient highway system designed to connect Georgia's interstates, county roads, city streets and state highway system together to provide mobility and efficiently connect travelers to their destinations.
Georgia's transportation system consists of the following major highway programs:
National Highway System (NHS)
Fast Forward Local Assistance Road
Program (LARP) Governor's Road
Improvement Program (GRIP) Surface Transportation Program (STP)
60,000
40,000 20,000
18,095
14,584
0 County Roads
Statewide City Streets
Highway System
Total Miles of Public Roads in Georgia:
117,238
34
National Highway System
The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 allowed the National Highway System (NHS) to serve as a network of highways linking different modes of transportation such as: public transportation, airports, intermodal facilities and major shipping ports.
The current Federal-aid Highway Bill, SAFETEALU, has expanded Georgia's portion of the National Highway System to include the Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP). Therefore, please refer to the GRIP map on page 39 as well for the most current NHS route designations in Georgia.
NHS FACTS
Total GA NHS Mileage 5,524
Total GA Interstate Mileage 1,245
NHS Major Intermodal Connector Routes 54
Other NHS Routes 4,225
35
Fast Forward Transportation Program
In Spring 2004, Governor Perdue approved the sale of $4.5 billion worth of bonds over six years to accelerate much-needed transportation projects. These projects, called the Fast Forward Program, were in addition to Georgia DOT's regular program of projects of $11 billion.
Total Program Highlights since Fast Forward began: Over $2.65 billion in contract awards in FY 07, marking the largest award amount for one year in Georgia DOT's history. Over $1.52 billion in contractor payments, `cash out the door' in FY 07, the largest 12-month payout in Georgia DOT history.
The Fast Forward Program is working to provide: Short-Term Congestion Relief: including Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO) expansion, Ramp Metering expansion, Signal Timing and Synchronization upgrades Long-Term Congestion Relief: High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane expansion, Arterial roadway improvements and New Transit Corridors implementation
The Fast Forward Program has been funded using a blend of Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) bonds, Guaranteed Revenue Bonds (GRB) and General Obligation (GO) bonds.
Total Fast Forward FY 05 - FY 10 Congestion/GARVEE and GO Program Summary
{Total Fast
Forward Program Bond
Congestion/GARVEE Program Total $3 Billion
GO Program Total
$1.5 Billion
TOTAL PROGRAMMED PROJECTS FY 05 - FY 07 $2.93 Billion
TOTAL AUTHORIZED PROJECTS FY 05 - FY 07 $3.27 Billion
36
Local Assistance Road Program
Initiated in 1978, The Local Assistance Road Program (LARP) is a resurfacing program designed to help local governments preserve the integrity of their paved road systems.
How it works
Each year, during late summer or early fall, every city and county in the state of Georgia is asked to submit a LARP priority list to the Georgia DOT. The LARP priority list identifies roads or streets in each city or county which need to be resurfaced. Georgia DOT reviews each road and street submitted and develops a needs assessment and cost estimate.
LARP Funding
Funding for LARP projects comes from the Motor Vehicle Fuel Tax. Each year Georgia DOT reviews the lists of projects received from each local government and makes selections based on need and availability of funds once the level of funding is established.
2007 LARP Facts
There are currently 70,013 miles of paved roads on the county and city systems.
Local governments submitted over $236 million of paving needs for fiscal year 2007.
The Department resurfaced 917 miles of roads under LARP contracts in 2007.
Before LARP Before LARP
After LARP After LARP
37
Governor's Road Improvement Program
The Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) is a system of proposed economic developmental highways in Georgia. GRIP was initiated in 1989 by a resolution of the state legislature and the Governor. When complete, the GRIP system will place 98 percent of Georgia's population within 20 miles of a four-lane road. It also will connect 95 percent of the cities in Georgia with populations of 2,500 or more to the interstate system.
GRIP is currently made up of 19 corridors (economic development highways), three truck access routes and 3,314 miles of roadway.
2007 GRIP Facts
75 percent or 1,983 miles of GRIP Corridors with project development activities underway are open or under construction.
60 percent of the total GRIP system is open or under construction.
10 projects were opened to traffic in calendar year 2006.
The projects opened to traffic added 69 miles of multi-lane roadway to the GRIP system.
The projects opened to traffic were constructed at a cost of $157.3 million.
The estimated cost to complete the GRIP Corridors with project development activities underway is $3.598 billion.
The estimated cost to complete the total GRIP system is $5.228 billion.
GRIP Corridors
Appalachian Developmental Highway South Georgia Parkway/US 82 US 319 Golden Isles Parkway Fall Line Freeway SR 72 Savannah River Parkway US 19 US 1/SR 17 US 27 US 441 US 84 Sunbelt Parkway/SR 133 Power Alley/US 280 East-West Highway SR 32 SR 40 SR 15 SR 125
38
Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) Map
Revised September 2007
39
Surface Transportation Program
The Surface Transportation Program (STP) provides flexible funding that may be used by the Department for projects on any federal-aid highway, including the National Highway System (NHS), Interstate system, bridge projects on any public road, transit capital projects, and public bus terminals and facilities. Funds are distributed to states based on lane miles of federal-aid highways; total vehicle miles traveled on federal-aid highways and estimated contributions to the Highway Account of the Highway Trust Fund. Each state must set aside a portion of their STP funds (10 percent or the amount set aside in 2005, whichever is greater) for transportation enhancement activities. 62.5 percent of the remaining STP funding (after the 10 percent transportation enhancement set-aside) must be divided among the state's urbanized areas; the remaining 37.5 percent of the STP funding may be distributed at the discretion of the state.
40
Paving the Way Home Program
Launched by Governor Perdue in January 2006, the Paving the Way Home Program utilizes state motor fuel tax revenues to help Georgia cities and counties repair deteriorating streets and roads. The twoyear program allocated more than $231 million to Georgia local governments for the resurfacing and rehabilitation of more than 4,200 miles of city streets and county roads.
In fiscal year 2006 and fiscal year 2007, Georgia DOT committed approximately $117 million in fuel tax collections to the effort.
The Paving the Way Home's twoyear funding source allocates much-needed funds to two vital programs in local communities -- Local Assistance Road Program (LARP) and State Aid. Georgia DOT's assistance for local government streets and roads is provided primarily through the Local Assistance Road Program (LARP), which is designated exclusively for resurfacing; and State Aid contracts, which support a wide variety of projects, including paving dirt roads, intersection improvements, resurfacing and recon-
struction. Through Paving the Way Home, fiscal year 2006 funding for LARP was increased by 58 percent over funding in fiscal year 2005. Increases in motor fuel prices resulted in more revenue from the state's 4 percent
gasoline tax than had been projected, allowing Georgia DOT to fund Paving The Way Home while continuing previously budgeted projects. In fiscal year 2006, more than $116.1 million was dedicated to work on 2,289 miles of streets and roads; another 1,927 miles were resurfaced or repaired in fiscal year 2007 at a cost of $115.5 million.
41
State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP)
This is a four-year multimodal program that contains federally-funded projects identified through the planning process. Every year, projects proposed for inclusion in the STIP are coordinated with local elected officials in non-metropolitan areas of the state to hear their questions and comments as per Georgia DOT's "Consultation Process With Local Officials in Non-Metropolitan Areas of the State" policy. Within metropolitan areas, the planning process and public involvement for federally-funded transportation projects are handled by the Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs), which are partners with Georgia DOT in these areas of the state.
The STIP is also presented for public review and comment at meetings throughout the state and is available at public libraries throughout the state. The STIP covering fiscal year 2008-2011 is available on Georgia DOT's Web site.
Types of projects in the STIP include:
Roads and Bridges
To operate, maintain and improve the safety of the existing state highway system
Intermodal Programs
To meet the transportation needs of citizens and businesses in Georgia
by providing various modes of travel, including public
transportation, rail, airports and deep-water ports
Transportation Enhancements
To enrich the traveling experience of the highway user through enhancements to the transportation system
42
Statewide Transportation Plan (SWTP)
The 2035 Statewide Transportation Plan (SWTP) was approved by the State Transportation Board on January 19, 2006 and updated in February 2007 to reflect SAFETEA-LU requirements. The SWTP assesses the current and future performance of all major transportation modes in the state -- highways, transit, air, water, bicycle and pedestrian. It also examines the linkages between modes. The SWTP includes statewide economic and transportation demand forecasts for the year 2035. Incorporating all existing regional and modal plans, the SWTP defines financially-constrained and unconstrained statewide transportation programs, estimates the cost of these programs, and forecasts available and potential funding. Updating the SWTP provides Georgia DOT with the technical and programmatic guidance needed to meet the transportation demands of the 21st
century. The SWTP identified $160 billion in transportation needs (in 2005 dollars); however, the SWTP forecasts Georgia receiving only $86 billion (in 2005 dollars) in transportation revenues, leaving a funding gap of $74 billion (in 2005 dollars).
Development of the SWTP involved extensive outreach activities consisting of meetings for the general public, stakeholder advisory groups and rural local governments in accordance with Department policy on consulting with non-metropolitan elected officials. The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) developed Long-Range Transportation Plans that were incorporated directly into the 2035 SWTP.
The current 2005 to 2035 Statewide Transportation Plan can be found online at: http://www.dot.state.ga.us/dot/plan-prog/ planning/swtp/index.shtml
Total Available Transportation Revenue by Source ($86.1 Billion)
2005-2035
2005 Dollars (in Billions)
State/$16.7 19%
FHWA +/$32.5 38%
* Assumes complete system is built. + Assumes SAFETEA-LU authorization levels.
Local Highway/$13.0 15%
Local Transit/$1.2 1%
MARTA Revenue/$3.0 3%
FTA+/$6.2 7%
Passenger Rail Revenue */$3.5 4%
MARTA Sales Tax/$10.2 12%
43
Air Quality Improvement
The Department participates in the effort for clean air in Georgia and maintains a strong commitment to improve air quality in the state through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ) Program. Of the six pollutants monitored by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), two are of particular interest in Georgia -- ozone and particulate matter.
Ozone and PM 2.5
Ozone, which is created in the air by nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, is a primary component of smog. Smog is primarily an issue during the summer months. Particulate Matter (PM), on the other hand, is a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid matter. Increased exposure to PM has been linked to a range of respiratory and cardiovascular health problems. Georgia has areas in nonattainment for both PM 2.5 and ozone. Unlike ozone, PM 2.5 is a problem throughout the year. Georgia's major sources of PM 2.5 are coal burning power plants, outdoor burning and diesel engines.
Counties designated in nonattainment of PM 2.5 and ozone include the 20-county metro Atlanta area, as well as parts of Putnam and Heard counties. Counties outside the metro Atlanta area include: Floyd (PM 2.5 only), Walker (PM 2.5 only), Catoosa, Bibb and a portion of Monroe. The EPA has revised the PM 2.5 standard and is considering revision of the ozone standard. Over the next few years, additional counties could be designated as nonattainment for either or both revised standards.
CMAQ Funds
In an effort to address Georgia's air quality issues, CMAQ funds are used to implement a variety of projects aimed at reducing emissions by relieving traffic congestion. One effective initiative is a regional Transportation Demand Management (TDM)/Commute Options program across Georgia. Since the development of the program in 1999, changes in transportation behavior have been accomplished in the Atlanta region through programs to educate,
44
Georgia's Nonattainment Areas and Corresponding MPOs Map
DADE WHITFIELD MURRAY WHITE
CATOOSA
FANNIN
UNION
TOWNS
RABUN
WALKER
GILMER
CHATTOOGA FLOYD
POLK HARALSON
GORDON
PICKENS
BARTOW
CHEROKEE
PAULDING
COBB
DOUGLAS
DEKALB
LUMPKIN DAWSON
FORSYTH
GWINNETT
HALL
STEPHENS
BANKS
FRANKLIN
HART
JACKSON
MADISON
ELBERT
BARROW WALTON
CLARKE OCONEE
OGLETHORPE
WILKES
Atlanta Nonattainment Area
ARC - Atlanta MPO
Gainesville/Hall MPO
Chattanooga Nonattainment Area (GA portion)
Chattanooga MPO
LINCOLN
Macon Nonattainment Area Macon MPO Rome Nonattainment Area
FULTON
MCDUFFIE
CLAYTON
CARROLL
NEWTON
MORGAN
GREENE
COLURMBoIAme MPO
HEARD
COWETA
FAYETTE
HENRY
SPALDING
BUTTS
JASPER
PUTNAM
WARREN
HANCOCK
GLASCOCK
Murray Nonattainment Area (Independent Rural) RICHMOND
JEFFERSON
MERIWETHER
LAMAR
TROUP
PIKE
MONROE
JONES
BALDWIN
WASHINGTON
BURKE
UPSON
HARRIS
TALBOT
CRAWFORD
BIBB
WILKINSON
JOHNSON
JENKINS
SCREVEN
TWIGGS
MUSCOGEE
TAYLOR
PEACH
TON
KLEY
EMANUEL
EF
encourage and facilitate the use of alternatives to driving alone. This program involves coordination among many state and local agencies, local governments and others.
Georgia TDM/Commute Options Program
Georgia DOT is the state TDM/Commute Options Program manager and leader through coordinated efforts with commuter program partners such as The Clean Air Campaign (CAC) and Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). Under the Georgia DOT contract, CAC and Employer Service Organizations (ESOs) have successfully developed partnerships with the business community to develop customized employer services. TDM/Commute Options Program efforts in Georgia are recognized nationally as being on the cutting edge. Alternative transportation in the Atlanta region eliminates 225 million miles of travel each year. Research and measurement efforts managed by Georgia DOT have determined that 64 percent of program participants continue using alternatives up to one year after incentives have ended.
Congestion & Air Quality
The Department has taken a proactive approach to addressing Georgia's air quality and congestion issues. The Department is meeting with officials in potential nonattainment areas to discuss measures they can implement to help improve their air quality. The Department is now rolling out the successful commute options program to other areas of the state including working directly with several military installations. The Department also is pursuing use of TDM/Commute Options to help reduce congestion in the vicinity of major, longterm construction projects.
The 14th Street Bridge project will be Georgia's first attempt to increase participation in existing TDM/Commute Options for the purpose of decreasing traffic in the densely-developed project area.
The Department will be coordinating the efforts between several state, local and private agencies.
Diesel Retrofits
The Department has also moved into the realm of on-road and off-road diesel retrofits. Through the CMAQ School Bus Retrofit program, the Department has been working with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) to encourage local jurisdictions to retrofit diesel school buses. The Department recently received a $25,000 EPA grant to study the effects of various retrofits on a sample population of the Department's diesel equipment. The purpose of this pilot project is to test the real world impacts of diesel retrofit technologies on the selected Georgia DOT vehicles and equipment. EPD and the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE) will assist Georgia DOT in tracking and documenting the pilot project.
The above illustrates the 14th Street Bridge after completion. Improvements to the bridge will be completed in 2010.
45
Public-Private Transportation Initiatives
Public-Private Initiatives (PPI) allow the Department to partner with private/corporate businesses to help finance, design, construct, operate and/or maintain transportation projects.
PPI is a faster, more creative process for meeting Georgia's transportation needs. PPI enables Georgia DOT to accept and evaluate proposals from private/ corporate businesses for transportation projects.
There are two types of PPI proposals: Unsolicited and Solicited. Georgia DOT may solicit PPIs through a two-step Request for Qualifications (RFQ)-Request For Proposal (RFP) process or private entities can submit an unsolicited proposal for consideration by the Georgia DOT for the design, funding, construction and/or maintenance of a transportation improvement.
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are contractual agreements, formed between a public agency and private sector entity, which expand on the traditional, private sector role in the delivery of transportation projects.
approximately 17 miles. The project also proposes to maintain four general purpose lanes along the project length.
I-75/575 Northwest Corridor
Unsolicited proposal #2004-2 was received in November 2004 from the Georgia Transportation Partners under the Public-Private Transportation Initiatives Act, for the development, design, construction and financing of improvements in the I-75/I-575 Northwest Corridor. The project team has completed a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS)
Public-Private Initiatives (PPI) Process
There are many different PPI options, and the structure differs from project to project. Traditionally, private sector participation in surface transportation projects has been limited to separate planning, design or construction contracts. Under a PPI structure, private sector responsibilities can be expanded through the use of partnerships ranging from combining typically separate service into a single procurement to leasing a facility to private sector partners.
Active PPI Proposals
I-20 Managed Lanes Corridor
The Georgia Department of Transportation announced a Notice of Intent to Solicit (2007-S1) on July 19, 2007 for the I-20 Managed Lanes Corridor. The proposed project would add two managed lanes in each direction along the I-20 Corridor from Sigman Road to the Downtown Connector (I-75/85) for
46
and is currently working on the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), and environmental approval.
GA 400 Crossroad Region
Unsolicited proposal #2004-3 was received in December 2004 from the Crossroads 400 Group under the Public-Private Transportation Initiatives Act, for the development, design, construction, financing and operation and maintenance of improvements to GA 400 at Highway 20 (Northern boundary) to I-85 (Southern boundary).
I-285 Northwest TOT Lanes
Unsolicited proposal #2006-U1 from the I-285 Northwest TOT Team (Goldman, Sachs & Co.; McGuire Woods, LLP; Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, Inc.) pursuant to the Public-Private Initiatives of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated. The scope of the project is to plan, permit, finance, design, and implement TruckOnly Toll (TOT) lanes along the northwest quadrant of I-285 and westward on I-20 to Thornton Road.
For the latest news and information about PPI and current proposals visit: www.dot.state.ga.us/ppi.
47
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)
High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes were introduced to metro Atlanta in December 1994, along an 18-mile section of Interstate-20, east of Interstate75/85. An additional 60 lane miles opened on I-75/85 inside Interstate-285 in 1996. Today, the state has some 90 miles of HOV lanes on interstates 20, 75 and 85.
HOV lanes decrease driving times, reduce stress and improve the region's air quality. Additionally, they are designed to help improve traffic congestion and ensure a substantial time savings for commuters who rideshare (two or more occupants per vehicle).
The lanes are identified by diamond-shaped pavement markings and overhead signs located on interstates. They are designated only for vehicles carrying two or more occupants, certified alternative fuel vehicles, motorcycles and emergency vehicles.
HOV Lane Map
FORSYTH
Legend:
BARTOW
CHEROKEE
575
Woodstock
4 1 Kennesaw
Roswell
400
Alpharetta
FULTON
9H85OV Lanes Buford Priority HOV Lanes
23
Marietta
75
COBB
Sandy Norcross Springs
Duluth GWINNETT
Lawrence 85
278
PAULDING Powder Springs
Lithia Springs Douglasville 7 8
20
ca
DOUGLAS Chapel Hill
Smyrna 285
Mableton Austell
ATLANTA
East Point
Chamblee
285 Decatur
29 Lilburn Tucker
78
Stone Mountain
DEKALB
278 Lithonia
20 675
Forest Park
Conyers
FULTON
29 Palmetto
Union City
Riverdale
Morrow Jonesboro
Stockbridge 23
ROCKDALE NEWTON
27A Newnan
85
COWETA
FAYETTE Fayetteville
Peachtree City
19,41
HENRY
McDonough
75
Hours of Operation
HOV lanes on I-75, I-85 and I-20 are all operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
48
The Georgia Rideshare Program offers residents a safe and convenient way to commute through the operation of carpools, vanpools and Park & Ride lots.
2006 Park & Ride Facts
Active Park & Ride Lots (excluding GRTA*) Available Spaces Percent Statewide Usage (excluding GRTA*) Avg. Daily Number of Spaces Used
* Georgia Regional Transportation Authority
94 7,470 28.3 percent 1,571
DADE
CATOOSA
WALKER
MURRAY WHITFIELD
FANNIN GILMER
TOWNS UNION
RABUN
WHITE
HABERSHAM
CHATTOOGA FLOYD
GORDON BARTOW
PICKENS CHEROKEE
LUMPKIN
DAWSON FORSYTH
HALL
STEPHENS
BANKS FRANKLIN
HART
POLK
PAULDING COBB
JACKSON
MADISON
ELBERT
BARROW GWINNETT
CLARKE OGLETHORPE
1-87-RIDEFIND is a confidential regional rideshare database that matches commuters in the Atlanta region with potential carpool partners.
Park & Ride Lots
HARALSON
DOUGLAS
FULTON DEKALB
WALTON
OCONEE
WILKES
LINCOLN
CLAYTON ROCKDALE
CARROLL HEARD
COWETA
FAYETTE
HENRY
NEWTON
MORGAN
GREENE TALIAFERRO WARREN
SPALDING
BUTTS
JASPER
PUTNAM
HANCOCK
GLASCOCK
McDUFFIE
COLUMBIA RICHMOND
TROUP
PIKE MERIWETHER
LAMAR MONROE
JONES
BALDWIN
JEFFERSON WASHINGTON
BURKE
HARRIS MUSCOGEE
UPSON
TALBOT
CRAWFORD
BIBB
TAYLOR
PEACH
MARION
MACON
HOUSTON
WILKINSON TWIGGS
JOHNSON
EMANUEL
JENKINS
SCREVEN
BLECKLEY
LAURENS
TREUTLEN
CANDLER
BULLOCH EFFINGHAM
CHATTAHOOCHEE MONTGOMERY
SCHLEY
STEWART
WEBSTER
SUMTER
QUITMAN
TERRELL
LEE
RANDOLPH
DOOLY CRISP
PULASKI
DODGE
WHEELER
WILCOX
TELFAIR
TURNER
BEN HILL
JEFF DAVIS
TOOMBS
EVANS
TATTNALL
BRYAN
APPLING
LONG
LIBERTY
CHATHAM
CLAY
CALHOUN
DOUGHERTY
WORTH
TIFT
IRWIN
COFFEE
BACON
WAYNE
McINTOSH
EARLY
BAKER
MILLER SEMINOLE
DECATUR
BERRIEN
ATKINSON
MITCHELL
COLQUITT
COOK
GRADY
THOMAS
BROOKS
LANIER LOWNDES
CLINCH
PIERCE
WARE
BRANTLEY
GLYNN
CHARLTON
CAMDEN
ECHOLS
49
Georgia 511
A National Initiative
In 1999, the United States Department of Transportation petitioned the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for a three-digit dialing code to make it easier for those traveling across states to access travel information. The FCC assigned "511" to the transportation community in 2000, designating this dialing code as the single nationwide travel information telephone number. The FCC left most of the responsibility for launching services to state and local agencies.
Georgia was one of the pioneers in providing up-to-the-minute travel information when it created NaviGAtor. Georgia 511 incorporates and expands upon NaviGAtor's technology to offer phone access for travel and transportation information across the state.
The Georgia Department of Transportation launched 511 in 2007, but work began on the system in 2006. Georgia 511 is a free real-time phone service that provides traffic and travel information, as well as 24-hour assistance request capabilities.
Georgia 511 Features Include:
Estimated trip times Statewide traffic conditions Route-specific information Current and planned road and
lane closures Construction Critical incidents Amber alerts
511 Connects to:
Accident reporting HERO Requests MARTA and Transit options Rideshare (Carpool or Vanpool) Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International
and Savanah/Hilton Head International airports Tourism information Neighboring state 511 systems (Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee)
To schedule a free tour of the TMC or a HERO visit for your child's school (in metro Atlanta), contact the Office of Public Information and Media Relations at 404-635-8017.
50
Launched in 1996 in time for the Summer Olympic Games, NaviGAtor is a comprehensive Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) that uses both state-of-the-art technology and human expertise to make Georgia's roadways safer and easier to travel. The Transportation Management Center (TMC) has served as the home of Georgia NaviGAtor.
www.georgia-navigator.com
The NaviGAtor Web site, www.georgia-navigator.com, features live traffic cameras, trip times, weather, news and travel alerts, and color-coded metro, regional, and statewide maps displaying congestion levels, traffic incidents, and active construction. It also features MyNaviGAtor, a free service that provides subscribers with customized traffic information for their own routes. Users can log onto www.myganav.com, create personalized travel profiles, and get real-time information sent directly to their cell phones, computers, or PDAs.
Coastal Evacuation System
This is a traffic management, data collection and traveler information system installed on evacuation routes along Georgia's Coastal Region for the purpose of improving traffic flow and providing real-time information during an evacuation due to such events as a hurricane. The Coastal Evacuation System consists of data collection devices, changeable message signs and surveillance cameras.
Accident Investigation Sites (AIS)
Accident Investigation Sites (AIS) are 100-foot long shoulder extensions that provide a safe area for motorists involved in accidents to exchange information away from the danger of on-coming traffic. Approximately 51 AISs have been constructed along I-20, I-75, I-85 and I-285.
Get Real-time Traffic Information
Dial 511 from any phone in Georgia for real-time travel information (statewide) or to request HERO assistance (in Metro Atlanta). Dial "1" or "9" to reach a live 511 Operator 24 hours a day. Learn more at www.511ga.org.
Know Before You Go! Visit www.georgianavigator.com for real-time traffic and road construction information!
Receive customized traffic information sent to your email, pager, cell phone, or PDA with MyNaviGAtor, a free subscriber service. Visit the Web site at myganav.com. From outside of Georgia, the toll-free number is 1-877-MY-GA-511 (1-877-694-2511).
511 Operators at the Transportation Management Center.
51
Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO)
The Highway Emergency Response Operators (HEROs) are a key component of the Georgia Department of Transportation's Incident Management program. As the Georgia DOT strives to reduce congestion on the highways, HEROs respond quickly to incidents and clear the roads so that normal flow traffic can be restored. In addition, HEROs assist stranded motorists by pro-
viding such services as: changing flat tires, jump-starting weak batteries, providing fuel or coolant, transporting motorists to safe areas away from traffic, providing road and travel information, offering use of a courtesy cellular phone, administering first
aid, and performing minor mechanical repairs. They also provide support to law enforcement, first responders, and other emergency management agencies.
HEROs:
Assist in reducing traffic congestion and delays Patrol 30 routes on 280 center-line miles of metro Atlanta interstates,
seven days a week are available on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week Are trained as first responders - 360 hours in class and 200 hours on the road
HERO Unit Facts (2007)
Total HERO Staff: 105 Total HERO Trucks: Approx. 90 Average Response Time: 8 minutes
52
TIME Task Force
The Traffic Incident Management Enhancement (TIME) Task Force was founded in 2002 to address the critical issues related to incident management in the Metro Atlanta region. Its members represent incident response teams from transportation agencies, fire and rescue, police, towing and recovery, emergency medical services and medical examiners/coroners.
The Strategic Vision for Metro Atlanta
After polling its membership representing all metro Atlanta jurisdictions, as well as state and federal agencies, the TIME Task Force produced a set of priorities known as the Metro Atlanta Traffic Incident Management Strategic Vision. The top 5 priorities are:
Open Roads Policy: establishing quick incident clearance as the overarching priority statewide
Towing and Recovery Incentive Program (TRIP): monetary incentives to tow services for quick clearance of truck crashes
Formal Certification and Training for Towing and Recovery Operators
TIME Accomplishments
Medical Examiner/Coroner MOU: agreement among M.E.s and police to relocate the deceased for quicker incident clearance
TIM Teams: Local agencies meeting regularly to decide incident response strategies and train together
The Incident Management Portal:
www.timetaskforce.com
The TIME Task Force has accomplished great strides in helping responders work together:
Formed four TIM (Traffic Incident Management) Teams in metro Atlanta
After-Incident Review (AIR) Committee has debriefed major incidents in the region to foster "best practices" discussions among local responder agencies
The TIME Task Force Web site is designed to provide the best information available on incident management, including:
Sponsored several conferences that brought nationally-recognized incident management experts to Georgia
The latest strategies and training exercises "Your Vest Won't Stop This Bullet" and other
videos about first responder safety Open Roads Policies
Hosted workshops to provide an incident management perspective during the design phase of major road projects
Held simulations to provide first responders with advanced training and certifications
53
Safe Routes to School Program
The purpose of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program is to encourage children to walk and bike to school, and to improve safety in the vicinity of schools. Fewer than 15 percent of all school trips are made by walking or bicycling, one-quarter are made on a school bus, and over half of all children arrive at school in private automobiles. This decline in walking and bicycling has had an adverse effect on traffic congestion and air quality near schools, as well as pedestrian and bicycle safety. Research has shown that parents who drive their students to school account for 25 percent of morning traffic.
The SRTS Program makes $16 million in funding available in Georgia for a wide variety of programs and projects, from building safer street crossings to establishing programs that encourage children and their parents to walk and bicycle safely to school. For more information on Georgia's Safe Routes to School program visit www.dot.state.ga.us/srts.
Georgia SRTS Overview:
Georgia DOT is in the process of creating the Georgia SRTS Resource Center. The Resource Center will assist K-8 schools with services that may include (but are not limited to) developing a customized SRTS plan; conducting walkability/bikability assessments; developing bike/pedestrian safety trainings; or hosting a Walk to School Day event.
It is anticipated that the Resource Center services will be available to schools by Spring 2008. All schools (grades K-8) will have an opportunity to enroll in the Resource Center to request Safe Routes to School services at no cost. The details will be posted on the Georgia DOT SRTS Web site www.dot.state.ga.us/srts as they become available.
Infrastructure
In order to be eligible for an Infrastructure project (sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic calming etc.), the school or school district must enroll in the Resource Center and be actively implementing either an Education, Encouragement and/or Enforcement program. The Infrastructure call for applications will be scheduled for spring/summer 2008. The infrastructure component will require a competitive application process.
54
2007 International Walk to School Day
The SRTS Program provides federal-aid highway funds to state Departments of Transportation over five federal fiscal years (FY 2005 - FY 2009). FHWA will apportion SRTS funding annually to each state. The federal SRTS program has allocated approximately $16.8 million to Georgia DOT over five fiscal years to encourage students to "walk or roll" to school. Georgia DOT officials greeted students and parents at Morris Brandon Elementary in October 2007 as
hundreds of students walked or biked to school to celebrate International Walk to School Day. Communities were encouraged to "get involved" to help kids safely walk and bike through their neighborhoods and by joining the global "walk to school" movement.
Over 60 schools throughout Georgia participated in International Walk to School Day.
Students and parents at the 2007 International Walk to School Day gather at Morris Brandon Elementary School in Atlanta.
55
Archaeology and Learning
Camp Twin Lakes and Georgia DOT
The Office of Environment/
Location is committed to
public education designed
to promote cultural aware-
ness and respect for cultural
heritage. An ongoing
curriculum-based program
in partnership with Camp
Twin Lakes was established.
Camp Twin Lakes is a not-
for-profit organization that
provides camping/outdoor
programs for children with
serious illnesses and life
challenges. The concept for the Camp Twin Lakes program centers on the under-
standing that school/education is a normal part of childhood and that educational
experiences can offer children undergoing medical and/or emotional treatment a
familiar and reassuring routine while providing them a chance to keep a sense of identity
and hope for the future. Georgia DOT's educational program provides campers with a
challenging activity focused on archaeology as part of the Camp Twin Lakes Nature
Program. Included in the
archaeology program are
books, curriculum-based
activity guides, counselor
training instruction, and an
interactive artifact
exhibit/display designed to
teach children about the
basics of archaeology and
Georgia's cultural history.
The Camp Twin Lakes pro-
gram is a small, but positive
step towards improving the
quality of life for these
medically-challenged
(L-R) Intermodal Programs Administrator Harvey Keepler; Archaeologists Sara Gale, Terri Lotti, and Pamela Johnson; and
children with an enriching educational experience.
Planning Division Director Mike Thomas make presentation to
campers.
56
Georgia DOT Archaeology Unit
The Archaeology Unit leads the country in the use of geophysical applications in archaeology. Over the past four years, the Georgia DOT Archaeology Unit has been using a Gradiometer, Ground-Penetrating Radar and a Resistivity Meter to enhance their study of subsurface archaeological sites. The Gradiometer can detect subtle changes in the Earth's magnetic field created by buried hearths, pits, and other areas of archaeological interest. The Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) sends electromagnetic waves into the ground which travel through the soils and then bounce back to the antenna. The data collected by the GPR can be used to detect buried objects, voids, and changes in soil type. Archaeologists use GPR to map archaeological sites in three dimensions and target areas of archaeological interest before excavating. GPR is commonly used to investigate cemeteries because it is a non-destructive survey technique and can locate unmarked graves.
Archaeologist Jim Pomfret conducts a Gradiometer survey of a prehistoric Native American archaeological site in Bartow County, Georgia.
By utilizing these various geophysical instruments, archaeologists are able to quickly learn impor-
tant information about what is in the ground. Archaeologists use the data gathered from the
geophysical surveys to precisely guide the location of where they excavate. In past surveys,
Georgia DOT has used these geophysical techniques to locate everything from 2,000-year-old
Native American fire pits to 200-year-old house foundations. Georgia DOT has become a
leader in using geophysi-
cal applications in
archaeology in the
Southeast and is often
called upon to assist
federal, state, and local
communities with their
preservation needs. In
2007, Georgia DOT was
recognized for its com-
mitment to historic preser-
vation by the City of
Archaeologist Sara Gale conducts a Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey at Saint Simons Island Airport in an attempt to locate subsurface voids.
Georgia DNR Staff Archaeologist Jennifer Bedell, Georgia DOT Archaeologist Pamela Johnson and Magnolia Springs State Park Manager Bill Giles search for the remains of a stockard wall just north of Millen, Georgia.
Roswell after providing the city with a geophysical survey of Barrington Hall, one of the city's most significant historic sites.
57
Transportation Enhancement Program
Created by the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) legislation in 1991, the Transportation Enhancement (TE) program focuses on community-oriented projects that offer transportation alternatives and augment cultural, natural and scenic elements of the statewide transportation network. Through the TE program, public agencies (local and state) and universities may apply for federal funds to implement projects that fall within the eligible criteria.
TE projects bring vitality to communities by providing connectivity and meeting/gathering places, beautifying neighborhoods, and highlighting culture and heritage. These federally-funded projects promote economic development, and generally improve quality of life in the communities they serve.
Silver Comet Trail
TE funds support many trail projects, such as the Silver Comet Trail pictured here. Multi-use trails provide not only active transportation alternatives, but also are venues for recreation and exercise.
Several popular categories of eligible projects include: bicycle/pedestrian facilities; streetscaping and landscaping of pedestrian corridors; and rehabilitation of historic structures.
The Riverwalk project in Columbus, which consists of walking trails along the Chattahoochee River, demonstrates how TE projects can enhance the natural amenities of Georgia's communities.
58
Streetscape projects like the ones pictured above in Greensboro (left) and Decatur (right) provide walking and biking facilities, while beautifying neighborhoods. These projects help create a sense of community with inviting public spaces, and encourage economic development by establishing attractive corridors for local businesses.
Since its inception in 1991, there have been 787 TE projects awarded to communities throughout the state. The fiscal year '08 -'09 Call for Projects will fund an additional $54.6 million in TE projects. This year, the Georgia DOT received a total of 285 eligible applications representing combined requests for more than $176 million in federal funds from all 13 congressional districts.
To aid in the project selection, the Georgia DOT relies on an extensive in-house technical review and the Transportation Enhancement Advisory Panel, which was formed in 1992. The advisory panel group of professionals, representing statewide expertise in the various TE project categories, evaluates each application and forwards its recommendations to the State Transportation Board for final selection of the funded projects.
Projects like this covered bridge in Gwinnett County help restore Georgia's historic and cultural sites. These projects are an important part of preserving Georgia's rich heritage.
59
Georgia Scenic Byway Program
The Georgia Scenic Byways Program is a grassroots effort to preserve, promote, protect and interpret treasured corridors throughout the state. A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road or route which features certain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. Scenic, natural, recreational, historical, cultural, or archeological qualities give each byway its character and appeal. There are currently 12 scenic byways in Georgia that give travelers beautiful, breath-taking views of their surroundings.
Designation
To obtain a designation, a local sponsor must complete a multi-stage process of identifying a route, submitting an application, developing a Corridor Management Plan and receiving approval by the Georgia DOT. The application defines the route; acknowledges local support of the byway; and assesses the intrinsic qualities and potential issues of the route. With significant public involvement, the Corridor Management Plan (CMP) documents the vision for the byway and outlines future steps that will be taken to achieve the goals of promotion, preservation and enhancement.
View of the Millen-Jenkins County Scenic Byway
New Byways Designated in 2007
The Millen-Jenkins County Scenic Byway became Georgia's 10th Scenic Byway at the March 2007 meeting of the State Transportation Board. The 35-mile route begins in the Downtown Millen Historic District, with its railroad depots dating from the early 1900s and the Millen-Jenkins County Museum, featuring local histories, Native American Indian artifacts, tools and cotton mill equipment.
Proceeding to
State Route 23
and Perkins
Green Fork
Road, scenic
character is
exhibited by
woodlands,
pasturelands,
and historic
Located in Millen-Jenkins County,
farmhouses in Carswell Grove Baptist Church is
small and scat- one of Georgia's oldest structures.
tered communities. Several historic churches
are along the route.
Magnolia Springs State Park is located three miles from the intersection of State Route 17 and U.S. 25, and features crystal clear springs, hiking/biking trails, and the Historic Fort Lawton, an 1864 prisoner-of-war camp. The Fort Lawton Historic Trail and the Bo Ginn Aquarium are also found in the park.
The Warren County - Piedmont Scenic Byway Extension was designated in October 2007, as Georgia's 11th Scenic Byway, and it serves as a continuation of the previously-designated Historic Piedmont Scenic Byway. The route was once part of the old Native American Okfuskee Trail, which connected what is now Augusta with the Mississippi River.
60
Scenic view along SR 16 at the Warren-Hancock County line.
The Warren County-Piedmont Scenic Byway Extension traverses 11 miles of rolling hills on State Route 16 from the Hancock/Warren County line to the intersection of State Route 12 in the City of Warrenton, passing through a wildlife management area, farmland, rivers and historic properties. Included on the byway are the cities of Jewell and Warrenton -- both listed as districts in the National Register of Historic Places.
The I-185 Scenic Byway was also designated
in October 2007, becoming Georgia's 12th
Scenic Byway. The route consists of 37 miles of
Interstate 185 in Troup,
Harris, and Muscogee
counties, from I-85 to
Exit 12, Williams Road,
just north of the city of
Columbus. This byway
provides travelers with
a view of gently
Northern view of the I-185 Scenic Byway
undulating, mixed pine forest terrain, as well as numerous
opportunities for exploration of the intrinsic
qualities found in the local region beyond the
limits of the interstate route.
For more information about Scenic Byways, please visit the Web site: http://www.dot.state.ga.us/DOT/plan-prog/ planning/projects/scenic_byways/index.shtml
Georgia Scenic Byway National Scenic Byway
Georgia's 12 Scenic Byways
Altamaha: 17 miles Cohutta-Chattahoochee: 54 miles Historic Piedmont: 82 miles I-185 Scenic Byway: 37 miles Meriwether-Pike: 55 miles Millen-Jenkins County Scenic Byway: 35 miles Monticello Crossroads: 29 miles Ocmulgee-Piedmont: 21 miles Ridge and Valley: 51 miles Russell-Brasstown: 41 miles South Fulton: 29 miles Warren County - Piedmont Scenic Byway
Extension: 11 miles
The total mileage for the 12 scenic byways is 462.
61
Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
The Department of Transportation is committed to improving bicycle and pedestrian access and safety. Through its Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, Georgia DOT is implementing the recommendations from the 1997 Georgia Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, and is currently updating this plan. The Department also sponsored and facilitated the development of 15 regional bicycle and pedestrian plans in conjunction with the Regional Development Centers (RDCs), and is now working with the RDCs to implement these plans. For more information, visit www.dot.state.ga.us/bikeped/.
Examples of Georgia DOT's bicycle and pedestrian initiatives:
Georgia Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Action Plan Georgia DOT is leading the effort in developing the state's bicycle and pedestrian safety action plan, which will be incorporated into the Governor's Strategic Highway Safety Plan. The Safety Action Plan identifies high crash locations and common crash types. It also lays out infrastructure and non-infrastructure recommendations to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety in Georgia. A Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Team was formed to guide the development of the plan, including establishing goals and prioritizing recommendations.
Georgia 2008 Bicycle Map The Department is developing a new state bicycle map which will display traffic volumes, shoulder width and other useful information for bicyclists. The map is expected to be available in Spring 2008.
Georgia Guidebook for Pedestrian Planning Completed in June 2006, the Guide assists local governments and other public and private entities in developing and implementing pedestrian plans. The book details strategies for evaluating, prioritizing, and funding pedestrian facilities.
62
Pedestrian and Streetscape Guide This manual provides direction to design professionals, planners, developers, municipalities and others on the design, construction, and maintenance of pedestrian facilities. The Guide is also used by Georgia DOT's design engineers when designing pedestrian facilities on state highways.
Atlanta schools. This four-year pilot program will produce a final report on the effectiveness of SRTS programs, as well as a statewide "how to" manual on developing SRTS programs. The "how to" guide will be instrumental in preparing schools for the new federallyfunded Georgia Safe Routes to School program.
Georgia Bicycle & Pedestrian Conference Georgia DOT hosted its first statewide bicycle and pedestrian conference in October 2006 in Decatur, Georgia, and is planning another one for 2008. The conference provided a training and networking opportunity for professionals working to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and accessibility, with the goal of making Georgia a healthier, more sustainable place to live. The conference was attended by 160 planning, engineering and public health professionals, law enforcement officers, local government officials, students and non-profit organizations from all over the state, including a few from neighboring states.
Metro Atlanta Safe Routes to School Demonstration Project The Atlanta Bicycle Campaign, under contract with Georgia DOT, is conducting Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs in five metro-
Georgia Bike Sense: A Guide for Cyclists and Motorists Published in March 2005, the Guide teaches cyclists and motorists how to safely and legally share the road. It provides bicycle safety tips, rules of the road and includes a listing of local, state and national bicycle resources. So far, 200,000 copies of this Guide have been distributed to schools and colleges, bicycle shops, Department of Driver Services locations and many more sites throughout Georgia.
63
Wildflower Program
Daffodil Debut
In an effort to extend the window of blooming flowers along the roadsides, Georgia DOT's Maintenance Office planted thousands of daffodils statewide. After conducting extensive research, the Department's landscape architects found that daffodils require little maintenance and are simple to plant. They selected Ice Follies, Campernelli and Carlton varieties as the most suitable and dependable species. According to industry experts, the daffodil varieties selected will tolerate the harsh roadside environment and will return each spring.
Awards and Events
Judges at the 2007 Southeastern Flower Show (SEFS) awarded Georgia DOT's "Lasting Impressions" garden display of daffodils with a Silver Certificate. Of the 15 entries in its class, the Department was one of three recipients to win the Silver Certificate for the Plant Discovery category. The Department, through its Wildflower Program, also participated in various festivals throughout the state. Thousands of wildflower seeds were distributed in the city of Macon, which is known as the Cherry Blossom Capitol of the world. The program was a sponsor at the 2007 Cherry Blossom Festival, a 10-day display of over 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees.
Wildflower Auto Tag
To keep Georgia's roadsides "bloomin beautiful", the purchase of the Wildflower tag for a one-time $25 fee allows citizens statewide to play an important role in roadside enhancement. The sale of the Wildflower Tag funds the statewide wildflower roadside beautification program. The auto tag can be purchased any time at local county tag offices. For more information, visit www.dot.state.ga.us or http://www.etax.dor.ga.gov.
64
Litter Control
Tackling Litter in Georgia:
Georgia DOT's Communications
The Governor's Litter Task Force
For decades, litter has been a challenge in Georgia. More than just an eyesore, there have been several incidents where roadway litter and debris caused seriously hazardous driving conditions, and even fatalities.
By Executive Order, Governor Sonny Perdue established the Litter Prevention and Abatement Task Force in 2005, forming a collaboration of state agencies, businesses, organizations, local governments and Keep Georgia Beautiful (KGB) affiliates statewide to develop a comprehensive approach to eradicate litter in Georgia.
Prior to this directive, several local, state and private entities had implemented their own anti-litter initiatives. In fact, by Georgia Code, Georgia DOT has long been quite literally on the frontlines fighting litter. Our maintenance crews are charged with roadside litter pick-ups -- clearing trash and accident debris that compromise driver safety -- efforts which cost the Department about $14 million annually in equipment and labor. Even so,
Office were key participants on this Committee.
After extensive statewide focus group and market research efforts, it was determined that Georgia DOT's existing antilitter slogan: "Litter. It Costs You," would become the overall theme for the Governor's statewide campaign, including the slogan's sub-themes: Litter. It Costs You Beauty; Litter. It Costs You Health; Litter. It Costs You Money; and Litter. It Costs You Safety.
The campaign's Web site, www.litteritcostsyou.org was created to provide individuals, cities, organizations and school groups with information on litter in Georgia.
The Governor directed the Task Force to include initiatives that involved school-aged children and the Youth Clean Community Challenge and the
campaign mascot, the "Brown Trasher" became the cornerstones of a statewide school education and outreach program.
litter remained a serious issue for the
Market research also confirmed
state.
Georgia DOT's earlier findings that
The Governor's vision was for a statewide, unified, dedication of resources, knowledge and expertise to prevent litter from its many sources. Task Force meetings began in May 2005 with
the primary litter offender is male between the ages of 18-34. Recognizing the need to reach this target group with its own message, the Brown Thrasher Committee decided on "Only Losers Litter."
leadership from the Governor's Office.
Mascot To reach this group, the campaign was
One of the primary goals was to make the
visible at every Braves home game in the spring
public more conscious of negative impacts of litter of 2007 and radio stations statewide with strong
to Georgia's environment, natural beauty and
listenership among young males.
roadway safety, and the tens of millions of dollars spent each year on litter pick-up. A Communications and Statewide Campaign Committee was formed to develop statewide public awareness strategies, including market research, print and broadcast media coverage, a Web site and TV and radio ads. Staff from
To continue the momentum built by the campaign's focus on intentional "trash-from-car-window" littering, Task Force initiatives for the near future include addressing negligent sources of litter (i.e. unsecured truck loads and debris from construction sites) and solid waste management, waste reduction and recycling.
65
Public Transit
Urban and Rural Transit Map
DADE
CATOOSA
WALKER WHITFIELD MURRAY
FANNIN GILMER
TOWNS UNION
RABUN
WHITE
HABERSHAM
CHATTOOGA
GORDON
PICKENS
LUMPKIN
STEPHENS
FLOYD
POLK City of Cedartown
HARALSON
DAWSON
BARTOW
City of Canton FORSYTH
CHEROKEE
HALL
BANKS FRANKLIN
HART
JACKSON
MADISON
ELBERT
PAULDING
COBB
GWINNETT
DOUGLAS
FULTON DEKALB
BARROW
WALTON City of Social Circle
CLARKE OGLETHORPE
OCONEE
WILKES
LEGEND
Regional Urban Transit System Urban Transit System Rural County Transit System Rural City Transit System
LINCOLN
CLAYTON ROCKDALE
CARROLL HEARD
COWETA
FAYETTE
HENRY
NEWTON
MORGAN
GREENE TALIAFERRO WARREN
SPALDING
BUTTS
JASPER
PUTNAM
HANCOCK
GLASCOCK
McDUFFIE
COLUMBIA RICHMOND
TROUP
PIKE MERIWETHER
LAMAR MONROE
UPSON
JONES
BALDWIN
JEFFERSON WASHINGTON
BURKE
HARRIS MUSCOGEE
TALBOT
CRAWFORD
BIBB
TAYLOR
PEACH
MARION
MACON
HOUSTON
WILKINSON TWIGGS
JOHNSON
EMANUEL
JENKINS
BLECKLEY
LAURENS
TREUTLEN
CANDLER
SCREVEN BULLOCH EFFINGHAM
CHATTAHOOCHEE MONTGOMERY
SCHLEY
STEWART
WEBSTER
City of Americus SUMTER
QUITMAN
TERRELL
RANDOLPH
City of Dawson
LEE
City of Unidilla DOOLY
City of Vienna CRISP
PULASKI WILCOX
TURNER
DODGE
WHEELER
TELFAIR
BEN HILL
JEFF DAVIS
TOOMBS
EVANS
TATTNALL
BRYAN
APPLING
LONG
LIBERTY
CHATHAM
CLAY EARLY
CALHOUN City of Arlington
DOUGHERTY
BAKER
WORTH City of Sylvester
TIFT
IRWIN BERRIEN
COFFEE ATKINSON
MILLER
MITCHELL
COLQUITT
COOK
SEMINOLE DECATUR
GRADY
THOMAS
BROOKS
LANIER LOWNDES
CLINCH
BACON
WAYNE
PIERCE
WARE
BRANTLEY
McINTOSH GLYNN
CHARLTON
CAMDEN
ECHOLS
66
Public transit programs are a key part of Georgia's ability to mitigate congestion, improve air quality, and facilitate economic development needs. Georgia DOT's transit programs allow over 167 million Georgians to live, work, and play without relying on the sole use of single occupancy vehicles (SOVs).
Urban Transit Systems
1. Albany Transit System (ATS) 2. Athens Transit System (ATS) 3. Augusta Public Transit (APT) 4. Chatham Area Transit Authority (CAT) 5. Clayton County Transit (C-TRAN) 6. Cobb Community Transit (CCT) 7. Columbus Transit System (METRA) 8. Douglas County Rideshare* 9. Gwinnett County Transit (GCT) 10. Georgia Regional Transportation
Authority (GRTA)** 12. Hall Area Transit 13. Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority
(MCBTA) 14. Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit
Authority (MARTA) 15. Rome Transit Department (RTD)
* Vanpool services provided ** Express Bus Service Only
Rural City Transit Systems
1. Cedartown 2. Social Circle 3. Unadilla 4. Vienna 5. Americus 6. Dawson 7. Arlington 8. Sylvester
2007 Urban Transit Facts
Urban Transit Systems (Statewide): 14
Total Revenue Vehicles:
1103 buses
388 rail cars
1 trolley
Revenue Vehicle Miles:
19,631,400
Number of Passenger Trips: 303,973,799
2007 Rural Transit Facts
Number of Rural Transit Programs: 100
Total Revenue Vehicles:
437
ADA Compliant:
245
Revenue Vehicle Miles:
13,335,973
Number of Passenger Trips: 2,144,436
67
Georgia Rail System
Freight Rail
The leading freight rail commodities originating in Georgia are clay, concrete, glass, stone products, non-metallic minerals, miscellaneous mixed shipments, pulp/paper and/or allied products. The leading freight commodities terminating in Georgia are coal, farm products, chemical/ allied products and miscellaneous mixed shipments. Two major freight railroad companies, CSX Transportation and the Norfolk Southern Corp., own and operate 71 percent of the total state system.
CSX operates 1,626 miles of railroad in Georgia. Norfolk Southern operates 1,930 miles of railroad in Georgia. 68
Railroad Facts
Estimated Track Route Mileage
The Georgia Railroad System consists of over 5,000 route miles.
Light Density lines
28 percent (1,410 miles) of the state's railroad system is operated by 23 independent or short-line operators.
Norfolk Southern has approximately 851 miles of light density lines and CSX has another 242 miles.
Georgia's light density lines carry less than five million gross tons of freight per year and function as local service operators, primarily in rural agricultural areas.
Corridor Preservation
Georgia DOT seeks to preserve and enhance rail freight access for the state's shippers through the strategic acquisition and rehabilitation of shortline trackage in danger of abandonment.
Georgia DOT owns nearly 540 miles of light density line. Approximately 90 percent of this mileage is leased to a shortline operator. The remaining 10 percent is either leased to the Department of Natural Resources for use as a bicycle and pedestrian trail or is not leased and the rail line is inactive.
Mainlines
2,436 miles of the rail system are classified as "mainline track."
Some Georgia mainlines transport more than 80 million gross tons per year, ranking them among the most heavily used in the country.
Railroad Company
Miles
Norfolk Southern
1,930
CSX Transportation
1,626
Shortline Railroads
The Athens Branch (ABR)
19
Chattahoochee Bay (CBR)
2
Chattahoochee Industrial (CIRR)
16
Chattooga & Chickamauga (CCKY)
68
First Coast Railroad (FCRD)
8
Fulton County Railway (FCR)
55
Georgia Central (GCR)
152
Georgia & Florida Railway (GFRR) 232
Georgia Midlands (GMR)
78
Georgia Northeastern (GNRR)
100
Georgia Southwestern (GSWR)
221
Georgia Woodlands (GWRC)
17
Golden Isles Terminal (GITM)
19
Great Walton (GRWR)
36
Hartwell (HRT)
58
Heart of Georgia (HOG)
226
Louisville & Wadley (LW)
10
Riceboro Southern (RSOR)
19
Saint Mary's (SM)
18
Saint Mary's West Railroad (SMWR)
23
Sandersville (SAN)
13
Savannah Port Terminal (SAPT)
10
Valdosta Railway (VR)
10
TOTAL Railroad Mileage
1,410
69
Georgia Rail Map
Shortline Railroad Name
ABR CBR CIRR CCKY FCRD FCR GCR GDOT GFRR GMR GNRR
The Athens Branch Chattahoochee Bay Chattahoochee Industrial Chattooga & Chickamauga First Coast Railroad Fulton County Railway Georgia Central Georgia Dept. of Transportation Georgia & Florida Railway Georgia Midlands Georgia Northeastern
GSWR GWRC GRWR GITM HOG HRT LW RSOR SAN SAPT SMWR VR
Georgia Southwestern Georgia Woodlands Great Walton Railroad Golden Isles Terminal Heart of Georgia Hartwell Louisville & Wadley Riceboro Southern Sandersville Savannah Port Terminal Saint Mary's West Railroad Valdosta Railway
70
Proposed Commuter Rail
The Georgia Rail Passenger Program (GRPP) contains seven commuter rail lines, seven lines of intercity rail service as well as the Multi-Modal Passenger Terminal (MMPT). The state's seven commuter lines serve 55 communities. The intercity lines link nine of Georgia's largest cities and towns with the metro Atlanta/Macon area, as well as link two of the largest travel markets in adjoining states.
Proposed Commuter Rail Service Map
71
Passenger Rail Program
This program involves two distinct kinds of rail transportation: Commuter trains, which will serve inbound commuters to work in the Atlanta area in the mornings and then home in the evenings; and Intercity trains, which will connect communities throughout Georgia and the Southeast. Intercity Passenger Rail Service in Georgia is provided by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation, known commonly as "AMTRAK."
AMTRAK operates the following routes in Georgia:
The Crescent operates daily between New York and New Orleans with stops in Atlanta, Gainesville and Toccoa. This train offers coach and sleeping car accommodations, as well as full dining car and lounge car service.
The Silver Meteor and the Silver Star operate daily between New York and points in Florida with stops in Savannah and Jesup. These trains offer coach and sleeping car accommodations, as well as full dining car and lounge car service.
The Palmetto operates daily between New York and Savannah via Charleston, South Carolina. The train offers coach and business class accommodations along with lounge car service.
Proposed High-Speed Passenger Rail Service
Studies are continuing on developing High-Speed Passenger Rail Service on two corridors:
Macon to Atlanta to Greenville, South Carolina to Charlotte, North Carolina Atlanta to Chattanooga
72
Proposed Intercity Passenger Rail Service
A two-tiered intercity passenger rail network has been proposed for the state of Georgia. Recommendations for implementation are as follow:
First Priority Corridors
Second Priority Corridors
Atlanta to Macon via Lovejoy and Griffin Savannah to Jacksonville via Vidalia Macon to Savannah via Vidalia or via Jesup Macon to Albany via Americus
Atlanta to Augusta via Madison Atlanta to Columbus via Griffin Atlanta to Greenville via
Gainesville and Toccoa
Georgia Rail Lines Map
Chattanooga
Greenville
Gaines-
Cartersville Canton ville
Toccoa
Bremen
Birmingham
A tlanta Senoia
A thens Madison
A ugusta
Griffin Macon
Columbus
A m e r i c u s
GRPP Rail Lines Commuter Intercity H.B. 1348
U.S. High Speed Rail Corridors
Albany
Tallaha ssee
East-
V idalia
Savannah
man
Cordele
Tifton Douglas
Jesup
Waycross
Brunswick
V a l d o s t a
Jacksonville
73
Georgia Airport System
LEGEND
RUNWAY LENGTH NUMBER
5500 and Longer 40
5000 to 5499
24
4000 to 4999
20
Less than 4000
21
Air Carrier Airports 9
INSTRUMENT LANDING CAPABILITY
Precision Approach-ILS
27
Non-Precision Approach 58
GEORGIA AIRPORTS
Total number of Landing Areas (Public and Private) 473
PUBLIC USE AIRPORTS
General Aviation and Air Carrier Airports 105
Publicly Owned and Open to the Public 103
Privately Owned and Open to the Public
2
PRIVATE USE AIRPORTS/HELIPORTS
General Aviation Airports 247
Heliports
120
74
Air Carrier Service
LEGEND
Air Carrier Airports 9
5500' and Longer Runway Precision Approach-ILS
AIR CARRIER FACTS 2007
Number of Passengers International Airports (Atlanta and Savannah) Number of Airport Employees
80.6 Million 2 65,000+
75
Georgia Ports Authority
The Port of Savannah set new annual records for containers handled and total tonnage in 2007. As the second busiest container facility on the East Coast and fourth in the nation, the Port of Savannah reported 2.3 million Twenty-foot Equivalent (TEU) containers handled in fiscal year 2007. The additional TEUs represented an impressive 14.5 percent increase over last year and clearly established Savannah as a gateway for American commerce.
A partnership study with the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) and the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business titled, "The Economic Impact of Georgia's Deepwater Ports on Georgia's Economy in Fiscal Year 2006" was released in 2007. The study showed Georgia's deepwater ports and inland barge terminals supported more than 286,476 jobs and contributed $14.9 billion in income, $55.8 billion in revenue and $2.8 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia's prospering economy. Additionally, the report indicated deepwater ports are one of Georgia's strongest economic engines, fostering the development of virtually all industries every year.
In fiscal year 2007, the Port of Brunswick also experienced significant gains. The Colonel's Island facility handled a record 1.245 million tons, a 10 percent increase over the previous year. Total tonnage for all terminals was 2.432 million tons.
Other Port of Brunswick developments included Mercedes-Benz's announcement of plans to consolidate shipping operations and naming Brunswick as its South Atlantic hub. The consolidation will bring an additional 50,000 vehicles for a total of more than 140,000 Mercedes moving through Georgia's ports annually.
Additionally, Bunge North America, one of the nation's leading agribusiness and food companies, announced a major agreement with the GPA to coordinate shipments of agriculture products through the Port of Brunswick for all of the Southeast. The new account is expected to bring at least 500,000 tons of business this year.
76
David Smalls
Other GPA Highlights
The Panama Canal's expansion will bring a new class of ships to Savannah, holding more cargo and demanding deeper drafts.
With Georgia's unmatched agricultural resources, the Port of Savannah boasts an export-toimport ration that cannot be matched by its competitors. In fiscal year 2007, 47 percent of GPA's cargo was exported.
Distribution centers are leading the way for growth. Three new major import distribution centers in the Savannah area opened in Fiscal Year 2007 - Oneida, IKEA and Target.
The following three major projects completed in fiscal year 2007 will further attract and support increased cargo volumes through the Port of Brunswick:
Colonel's Island North/South Access RoadThe Highway 17 Overpass, which opened in fiscal year 2007, provides unrestricted movement of both rail and vehicle traffic between the north and south sides of the terminal enabling the GPA and Brunswick auto processors access to an additional 900 acres available for expansion.
Anguilla Junction - The additional 4,000 feet of track connects to approximately 8,000 feet of existing track for staging outbound trains. It further adds three new 3,400-foot-long yard tracks, which double rail capacity at the Port of Brunswick.
Overton Junction - The 7,500-foot track connecting Norfolk Southern and CSX lines will reduce transit times to and from Colonel's Island.
Future Plans
GPA and the Georgia DOT have been working together to develop a clearer picture of how to handle future growth.
The James D. Mason Intermodal Container Transfer Facility (ICTF) is one of GPA's greatest assets. With 12,500 feet of accessible track and 7,500 feet of storage track, demand for this facility has increased from four trains per week to 10. To accommodate the demand, the GPA has completed expansion efforts to increase capacity by 25 percent.
The Jimmy DeLoach Parkway is the most critical and costly project required to keep the cargo and jobs coming. The project includes the construction of approximately 2.9 miles of roadway between Jimmy DeLoach Parkway and State Route 307. The roadway will provide direct access to the port for existing distribution centers in the Crossroads Business Center, and proposed distribution center developments in the area.
77
SAFETEA-LU
Federal Highway and Transit Funding
The Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, referred to as SAFETEA-LU, was enacted in 2005 and provides total authorizations of $286 billion for highways, highway safety and transit programs for fiscal years 2005-2009. The law authorized average annual highway funding of $40 billion. Georgia DOT expects to receive average annual formula apportionments totaling $1.3 billion. Within the five-year highway funding, Congress earmarked $22 billion for member-designated projects. Georgia members earmarked $405 million for 250 projects. Georgia highway users contribute a larger share of federal fuel tax revenue to finance the federal highway program than the share of funding the state receives from the program. Thus, it is referred to as a "donor" state. Georgia highway users "donated" about $1 billion to fund highway projects in other states during fiscal years 1998-2003. Georgia DOT and congressional members worked with other donor states to increase the minimum rate of
return for the share of funds received relative to the share of contributions. As a result, Georgia's overall rate of return for highway funds is projected to increase from 85 percent under the previous bill to 89 percent under SAFETEA-LU.
SAFETEA-LU authorized average annual transit funding of $9 billion and Georgia transit systems expect to receive average annual funding of $134 million in formula apportionments. A substantial amount of discretionary funding for major capital projects is expected as well. Georgia congressional members secured $40 million for 21 bus and bus facility projects in the bill and additional funds will be earmarked in annual U.S. DOT appropriations bills. Lastly, SAFETEA-LU provides funding for special highway safety programs such as encouraging the use of safety belts and child car seats; combating drunk and drugged driving; inspecting heavy trucks for safety; and safety data collection.
Funding to Georgia from Major Highway Categories
Highway Programs FY 2006 FY 2007
Interstate Maintenance
National Highway System Surface Transportation
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality
Bridges
$240 M $271 M $217 M $248 M $281 M $324 M $48 M $57 M $70 M $81 M
Safety Improvement
$44 M $52 M
Equity Bonus
$152 M $144 M
Transit Programs FY 2006 FY 2007
Urbanized Area Formula $70 M $71 M
Other than Urbanized Areas
$14 M $15 M
Elderly/Disabled
$3 M $3 M
New Freedom
Job Access/Reverse Commute Fixed Guideway Modernization
$2 M $2 M $4 M $4 M $28 M $32 M
78
Transportation Funding in Georgia
Fiscal Year 2007 Actual Expenditures
$5,127,227,693.87
$3,113,428,641.63
$1,254,780,902.05 $741,928,753.60
Federal Funds
Motor Fuel Funds
Other Funds
$17,089,396.59
State General Funds
Georgia has several major sources for funding public-sector transportation programs.
1. Motor Fuel Tax Funds Georgia collects a motor fuel tax of 7.5 cents per gallon on gasoline, diesel fuel, gasohol, liquid propane and any other substance sold as motor fuel. It also levies a retail motor fuel sales tax for transportation at a rate of 3 percent.
2. Federal Funds
The Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) authorizes funding for highway, highway safety, transit and other surface transportation programs for the next three years.
Annual Operating Budget for FY 2008
Motor Fuel Tax
$750,414,878
Federal Funds
$1,335,062,254
The Federal Transit Authority provides mass-transit grants that are used for actions such as buying buses and covering operating expenses for urban and rural public transportation.
State General Funds $23,372,316
Other Funds
$7,413,336
Totals
$2,116,262,784
79
Transportation Funding in Georgia
3. Georgia General Assembly The Georgia General Assembly funds transportation programs from motor fuel tax and general funds or through the issuance of general obligation bonds. Projects funded by the Georgia General Assembly can include local roads, the Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) and intermodal projects such as public transportation, rail, ports and aviation.
4. State Road and Tollway Authority The State Road & Tollway Authority provides guaranteed revenue bond funding. These funds will be used to accelerate transportation needs in Georgia.
STIP Funds by Category Fiscal Years 2008 - 2011
$3,239,680 Reconstruction/Rehab
$957,176 Transit
$969,770 Bridges
$560,049 Safety
$1,052,411 Other
$1,273,880 New Construction
$911,204 Maintenance
$495,397 Enhancement
Total STIP Fund Estimates: $9.46 Billion
80
Glossary
511 A free phone service that provides real-time traffic and travel information 24 hours a day. Accident Investigation Sites (AIS) Interstate shoulder extensions that provide safe areas for motorists involved in accidents to exchange information. Alternative Mode Transportation modes other than one person in a motorized private vehicle, such as transit, walking, bicycling or carpooling. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) AASHTO serves member state departments of transportation, the U.S. DOT, and Congress by providing leadership, technical services, information and advice as well as by contributing to national policy on transportation issues. Arterial A major highway that is primarily for through traffic and usually on a continuous route; it serves major traffic movements while providing access to abutting land. Bicycle Lane or Bike Lane A portion of a roadway that has been designated by striping, signing and pavement markings for preferential or exclusive use of bicycles. Categorical Exclusion Examples of categorical exclusions are actions which, based on past experience with similar actions, do not do any of the following: induce significant impacts to planned growth or land use for the area; require the relocation of significant numbers of people; have a significant impact on any natural, cultural, recreational, historic or other resource; involve significant air, noise or water quality impacts; have significant impacts on travel patterns; or otherwise (either individually or cumulatively) have any significant environmental impacts. Changeable Message Sign (CMS) Used to advise drivers of traffic or roadway conditions ahead on I-20, I-75, I-85 and Georgia 400 and, in some cases, recommend alternate routes; the CMS also reduces driver frustration by providing advanced warning. A CMS is also referred to as a Variable Message Sign (VMS); also utilized for Amber Alerts and Levi Calls which aide in locating lost, missing or kidnapped individuals. The Clean Air Campaign The Clean Air Campaign is a non-profit organization that works to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality through a variety of voluntary programs and services. It
81
Glossary
serves as a clearinghouse for a multitude of organizations that have programs in place to address traffic congestion and air pollution. Commuter Rail Conventional rail passenger service within a metropolitan area, usually operating over existing, intercity railroad tracks; a diesel locomotive pulling three (or more) passenger coaches normally provides service primarily in the morning and afternoon home-to-work travel periods. Conformity The requirement that state or metropolitan transportation plans, programs and projects be consistent with the State Implementation Plan and attaining federal and state air quality standards. A conformity finding by the U.S. EPA is required as part of the federal review of Transportation Plans and Transportation Improvement Programs. Congestion Management System (CMS) A systematic process which provides information on transportation system performance and alternative strategies to alleviate congestion and enhance the mobility of persons and goods. A CMS includes methods and evaluates performance, identifies alternative actions, accesses and implements cost-effective actions. Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ) A special provision of the ISTEA that directs funds toward projects in Clean Air Act NonAttainment areas for ozone and carbon monoxide. Construction Work Program A listing of all projects to be funded by/through the Department in a six-year time frame. The project may include Preliminary Engineering (PE), Right-of-Way (R/W), and/or Construction (CST) phases; most projects are roadway and bridge construction projects. However, the CWP includes other non-roadway projects as well (e.g., transit, bike and pedestrian, railroad crossings, etc.). *DOT (*368) Free cellular phone service for motorists who see or are involved in an accident or traffic congestion. This phone number connects to the Traffic Management Center's operators, who can provide information on roadway incidents. This service is expected to be phased out in 2008. Daily Vehicle Miles Traveled (DVMT) A daily average of the amount of miles a vehicle travels on Georgia's public roads.
82
Development of Regional Impact
Any development that, because of its character, magnitude or location, would have substantial effect on the health, safety or welfare of more than one county, city, town or other political subdivision.
District
A management region defined by the Georgia DOT; the Department's seven district offices throughout the state provide localized services.
Environmental Assessment (EA)
A document that assesses an action that is not a categorical exclusion and does not clearly require the preparation of an environmental impact statement (EIS); or where the Federal Highway Administration believes an environmental assessment would assist in determining the needs for an EIS.
Environmental Documents
Environmental impact reports and statements, negative declarations, initial studies and environmental assessments under CEQA and NEPA.
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
A detailed statement prepared under NEPA presenting studies and information needed to identify and assess the significant effects a project may have on the quality of the human environment.
Environmental Justice (EJ)
According to the EPA, it is the fair treatment of people of all races, income and culture with respect to the development, implementation and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations and policies. Fair treatment implies that no person or group of people should shoulder a disproportionate share of negative environmental impacts resulting from the execution of this country's domestic and foreign policy programs.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
A federal agency charged with protecting the natural resources of the nation.
Environmental Protection Division (EPD)
A state agency charged with protecting and restoring Georgia's environment.
Feasibility Study
A study about a project's feasibility that is summarized in a document; the study addresses issues including the project's cost, effectiveness, alternatives considered, analysis of alternative selection, environmental effects, public options and other factors. The Major Investment Study replaced the Feasibility Study for major projects involving federal funds under the ISTEA.
83
Glossary
Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) An environmental document is prepared following the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), which includes the results of the public involvement process and agency input of the DEIS; this document summarizes the substantive comments on social, economic, environmental and engineering issues made as a result of the public involvement process, and documents compliance with requirements of all applicable environmental laws, executive orders and other related requirements. Flexible Funding Authority given to the recipients of federal funds to carry out transportation projects and provide transportation services with minimal governmental restrictions; this can be applied to state and local funds. Geographic Information System (GIS) An organized collection of data that utilizes computer software and a hardware system to assemble, store, analyze and display geographically-referenced information. Georgia Rideshare Program Transportation program that provides a safe and convenient way to commute to and from destinations through the operation of carpools, vanpools and Park & Ride lots. Governor's Road Improvement Program (GRIP) A system of four-lane highways that enhance economic development throughout the state. It was initiated in 1989 by a resolution of the state legislature and the Governor to connect 95 percent of our state's cities (with a population of 2,500 or more) to the Interstate System. HERO Unit Respond quickly to incidents and clear the roads so that the normal traffic flow can be restored. Responsible for patrolling the Atlanta-area freeways. Provide support to law enforcement, first responders and other emergency agencies. High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane Travel lanes designated only for vehicles carrying two or more occupants, motorcycles, alternative fuel vehicles and emergency vehicles travelling on I-20, I-75 and I-85 within the metro Atlanta area. Highway Emergency Response Operators (HEROs) Georgia DOT employees who are skilled at offering assistance to motorists with vehicle problems or individuals involved in accidents on Atlanta interstates.
84
Infrastructure
In transportation planning, all the relevant elements of the environment in which a transportation system operates; in transit systems, all the fixed components of the system such as rights-of-way, tracts, signal equipment, stations, park-and-ride lots, bus stops and maintenance facilities.
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
Initiatives by government and industry to improve safety, mobility, efficiency, productivity and environmental quality of transportation systems through the use of modern electronics and communications technologies.
Intermodal Management Systems (IMS)
A systematic process of identifying key linkages between one or more modes of transportation, where the performance or use of one mode will affect another, defining strategies for improving the effectiveness of these modal interactions, and evaluation and implementation of these strategies to enhance the overall performance of the transportation system.
Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)
Surface transportation legislation created by Congress in 1991 to guide and fund the nation's transportation system. The law expired in 1997, but much of the program was carried forward by TEA-21.
Interstate
A freeway that is part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways (the Interstate System); a divided highway which can be accessed only by on and off ramps.
Local Assistance Road Program (LARP)
The Georgia resurfacing program designed to assist local governments in preserving their paved road systems.
Major Investment Study (MIS)
A study and resulting document that replaces Feasibility Studies under ISTEA for major improvement projects involving significant federal funds. A MIS includes the study of factors that may justify a proposed project such as its cost effectiveness and overall effectiveness and incorporation or intermodal transportation. The MIS also requires consideration of other transportation modes as well as broader public and agency input.
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
The national environmental law that establishes procedures for conducting an environmental analysis for a project involving federal action.
85
Glossary
National Highway System (NHS) A network consisting of the interstates and other specifically designated routes which provide access to major intermodal facilities and to key military bases. NaviGAtor Georgia's integrated Intelligent Transportation System designated to minimize congestion of highways and improve traveler safety within the metro Atlanta area. Non-attainment Areas These are geographical areas, defined by the Environmental Protection Agency, whose air quality does not meet federal air quality standards designed to protect public health. Park & Ride Lots Transit access mode in which passengers drive or bicycle to a transit station, park in a specified area and ride the transit system from there to their destination. Right-of-Way (ROW) The land acquired for or devoted to transportation purposes; for example, highway ROW and railroad ROW. SAFETEA-LU The Safe, Accountable, Efficient, Transportation Equity Act - A Legacy for Users or SAFETEA-LU, is a bill that authorizes spending for a six-year reauthorization of the nation's surface transportation program. Scenic Byway Any designated highway, street, road or route which features certain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) A list of federally-funded, priority transportation projects proposed to be carried out in the first three years of adoption. The Office of Planning oversees the STIP public involvement process for the six rural Georgia DOT Districts. Statewide Transportation Plan (SWTP) An outline for meeting Transportation 2000 objectives over a 20-year period. Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982 (STAA) A highway program that designates national routes for oversized trucks to move freight throughout the state.
86
Surface Transportation Program (STP) A block grant program that can be used for any roads that are not functionally classified as local or rural minor collector roads. Transportation Control Centers (TCC) Satellite transportation management facilities that are linked directly to the TMC, establishing a regional transportation management system. Transportation Enhancements (TE) A transportation enhancement project that uses funding from TEA-21 to enhance the public's transportation experience by concentrating on cultural, natural and scenic areas. Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21) Legislation that provided $198 billion in federal funding for highways, highway safety, transit and other transportation programs (1998-2003). Transportation Management Center (TMC) The state-of-the-art facility -- located in the Wayne Shackelford Building -- that houses Georgia's NAVIGATOR system. Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) Document required by the ISTEA that contains a description of all proposed transportationrelated planning activities and air quality planning activities undertaken in a metropolitan region in a given year. Urban Transit Service Public transportation service located within an urban area that operates on a fixed schedule along designated routes. Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) The total number of miles traveled on all roadways by all vehicles; reducing VMT can help ease traffic congestion and improve air quality.
87
GEORGIA DOT's FAST FACTS
z Georgia consists of more than 18,000 state highway system miles, 1,245 interstate miles, 83,000 county road miles and 14,000 city street miles.
z More than 200 Transportation Enhancement (TE) projects. z Georgia has 462 miles of Scenic Byways. z Georgia boasts 3,000 miles of bicycle and pedestrian routes. z 101 Changeable Message Signs on interstates 20, 75, 85, 285
and GA 400 alert motorists of traffic incidents and Levi's Calls. z 63 HERO Units assisted in more than 77,743 roadway incidents in 2006. z 90 miles of HOV lanes on interstates 20, 75 and 85 operate
24 hours a day, 7 days a week. z 14 urban transit systems statewide made over 303.9 million passenger
trips in 2006. z 100 rural transit systems statewide made over 2.1 million passenger
trips in 2006. z 94 active Park & Ride Lots statewide provide about 7,470 available
spaces to commuters. z 3,100 mainline rail track miles transport more than 80 million gross
tons of freight per year. z Georgia's deepwater ports and inland barge terminals supported more
than 286,476 jobs throughout the state and contribute $55.8 billion in revenue. z 20,800 acres of dredged material containment areas provided
by Georgia DOT for harbor/waterway maintenance. z 1.4 million square yards of pavement surround Georgia's 103
publicly-owned, public-use airports and their 3.25 million takeoffs and landings each year. z Georgia collects a 7.5 cents-per-gallon Motor Fuel Tax and a 3 percent
sales tax. z $9.46 billion is the estimated funding for fiscal years 2008-2011
Statewide Transportation Improvement Program.
88
Notes
89
Notes
90
About the 2007 Fact Book
This publication, updated annually, serves as a comprehensive, at-a-glance guide to the Georgia Department of Transportation. It offers descriptions of various offices, programs, studies and initiatives. Additionally, it provides contact information for State Transportation Board members, Division Directors, District Engineers and other key personnel.
Upcoming Changes to Department Contact Information
Please Note: Information contained in the 2007 Fact Book was compiled prior to several changes which may impact how you contact some Department personnel after Spring 2008: General Office: The Department's Atlanta headquarters will move to new offices at One Georgia Center. Therefore, the telephone numbers and mailing addresses of most staff now located at the 2 Capitol Square General Office may only be valid through the Spring, when the Department is scheduled to begin its move.
The new address will be: One Georgia Center, 600 West Peachtree Street NW, Atlanta, Georgia 30308
Web address: The Department's Web address has changed from www.dot.state.ga.us to www.dot.ga.gov, in keeping with the format used by most other Georgia state government agencies. Email: All email addresses have changed to a new format and will now use the dot.ga.gov ending instead of the longer dot.state.ga.us. To ensure that we remain available to the public throughout the transition, you will still be able to reach us at the current G.O. address, Web site URL and email addresses through the end of calendar year 2008. However, please feel free to note the changes, as only the new G.O. address, Web URL and email addresses will be in effect after January 2009.
91
Georgia Department of Transportation
Office of Communications 2 Capitol Square, S.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30334 (404) 656-5267 www.dot.ga.gov webmaster@dot.ga.gov