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Advanced Blueprint Reading for Highway Workers (New Course!)

(Request this course)
Description
This class discusses how the highway supervisor, superintendent, maintenance worker and inspector can use a set of highway plans to ensure any new work, or roadway/structure repair work is performed according to design standards.   At the successful conclusion of the course, the student should be able to:

  • Read and interpret the information given on a set of highway plans.
  • Review plans and recognize potential maintenance problems.
  • Use the proper vocabulary to communicate about key elements of the plan.
  • Locate key items in the plan using stations.
  • Locate buried or hidden objects in the field using scaling and triangulation techniques.
  • Draw legible field sketches and red-line drawings
This course is designed as a follow-up to T2’s Blueprint Reading for Highway Workers.
 
Professional Development Hours: 6.0
 

Advanced Road Safety Audits

(Request this course)
Description
The purpose of this workshop is to provide local rural governments with an ability to develop a practical safety improvement program based upon applying the concepts of a road safety audit review. Local rural government agency personnel that may be interested in developing a safety program and applying the concepts of a road safety audit review should take this course. County Engineers and road supervisors and commissioners will find this workshop beneficial to their safety programs. The course would also be beneficial for forest service, national park, BLM, BIA, and other entities concerned with safety on rural roads.

Professional Development Hours: 7.0.


Asphalt Recycling

This course is scheduled for April 18, 2024
Description
This course discusses the advantages of asphalt recycling as part of your road maintenance program. It covers techniques for recycling asphalt pavement, including surface recycling, hot mix recycling (both in plant and on-site), and cold mix recycling. The course instructed by Ed Stellfox emphasizes cold mix recycling, full depth reclamation, reviewing materials, equipment and operations. It also presents recent examples of asphalt recycling projects in several states. The following topics will be discussed: advantages; review of techniques -materials, equipment, and operations for surface recycling, hot-mix recycling, cold-mix recycling, and full depth reclamation.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0.


Asphalt Resurfacing

This course is scheduled for March 28, 2024
Description
This course instructed by Ed Stellfox reviews the various asphalt mixes, their components and their uses. Asphalt resurfacing procedures are covered, including preparation, material, equipment, operation and safety. Special emphasis is placed on proper rolling and compaction of the asphalt overlay. Superpave mix design is discussed as well.

Municipal officials, road commissioners, supervisors, and superintendents; public works and maintenance personnel; equipment operators; and city or town managers are encouraged to attend.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0.


Asphalt Roads - Common Maintenance Problems

(Request this course)
Description
Municipal employees with road maintenance responsibilities should understand the causes of common maintenance problems on asphalt roads and be  familiar with proper repair materials and methods. This course instructed by Ed Stellfox discusses causes and repair procedures for common problems such as cracking, potholes, rutting, corrugations, etc. The procedures cover materials, equipment, and techniques for lasting repairs. Also included, a brief discussion of surface treatment.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0.


Asset Management For Local Governments

(Request this course)
Description
This two-day short course instructed by Alan Kercher introduces the main elements of transportation asset management (TAM) and the GASB 34 Mandate. TAM is a set of tools and approaches that has attracted significant attention over the past decade in the U.S. and internationally. The popularity of the asset management approach arises from important challenges and opportunities confronting state and local transportation agencies in the national capital region: Increased concern about security and safety Increasing traffic and congestion Advances in communication and information technologies.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Basic Drainage

(Request this course)
Description
This course instructed by Ed Stellfox emphasizes the importance of good drainage with discussions of water and its effects on roads, problems caused by improper drainage, and ways to handle these problems. It covers types of drainage facilities, ranging from ditches, culverts, subdrains, inlets and end structures. Their uses, materials, installation and maintenance as well as erosion control are addressed. It also introduces geosynthetic drainage applications. The following topics will be covered: importance of drainage, characteristics of water, system maintenance, drainage principles, surface and subsurface drainage, ditches, driveways, drainage culverts – materials and placement, headwalls, endwalls and inlets, erosion control, and geosynthetics in drainage.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Bicycle Design and Planning

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day workshop instructed by Dane Ismart will introduce plan and design concepts for the development of bicycle facilities. The course was developed to complement the AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities. This course is targeted towards transportation planners and traffic engineers who are planning or designing bicycle facilities. Participants will receive a copy of the AASHTO Guide for Development of Bicycle Facilities and its CD.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

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Blueprint Reading for Highway Workers

(Request this course)
Description

Today’s highway workers use a variety of blueprints and drawings to guide them in accurately performing the construction and maintenance of roadways and related components. Upon successful completion of this course instructed by Glynn Stoffel, the student will be able to read and interpret the drawings included in a set of highway plans. At the conclusion of the course, the student will be able to:
  • Recognize and define the various lines and symbols used in plan construction.
  • Describe and discuss the characteristics of plans, plats, profiles, views, details and other drawings found in a set of working plans.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use engineer’s and architect’s scales.
  • Describe how to effectively use plans in the field.
  • Obtain a score of at least 70% on the review test.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


BMP’s For Stormwater Management

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day workshop will provide municipalities, engineers, watershed and other associations with guidance and examples for the implementation and construction of cost effective BMPs for watershed protection and storm water compliance. Storm water management regulations, funding, technical approaches as well as specific innovative products and technologies will be covered. The workshop will also provide and emphasize networking opportunities for the attendees. Engineers, planners, inspectors, contractors and municipal, county, state, MS4, and watershed association staff who are involved in design, specification, construction, maintenance, and regulatory issues related to storm water management and watershed protection (including highway, site development, industrial, agricultural and landfill design) should take this course.

Professional Development Hours: 15.0.


Budgeting for Public Works Departments

(Request this course)
Description
This course is designed to give public works managers some tools for developing a realistic budget and to present techniques for "selling" your budget, getting others to "buy into it", and help to promote it. Participants will also receive tips for dealing with the challenges of today's economy, the whims of Mother Nature, and the honest delivery of contracted services and materials. The workshop  is a good introduction to budgeting for those responsible for developing and presenting public works budgets. Designed to assist public works directors, foreman and supervisors, select board members, elected officials and decision makers, and others with budgeting responsibilities.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Context Based Complete Streets

(Request this course)
Description

This one-day course describes how Context Based Design grows Complete Streets. Context Classification and Functional Classification are joined in the design process to yield great walkability and true Complete Streets where design elements change from one context zone to the next. Walkability is defined in this course, as achieved in many compact urban areas. Planners, Engineers, Architects and elected officials will benefit from these discussions.

By definition, Complete Streets design serves multiple travel modes. However, street and highway designs should also vary significantly to accommodate varying land development context, existing and future.

In the past, agencies placed greater design emphasis on faster moving motor vehicles. The auto industry was producing more powerful vehicles every year, but the planning areas were not changing. They remained fixed within two coarsely defined contexts; rural or urban, as defined by the census based, catch-all, urbanized area definition. Suburban roadway design guidance, by focusing on faster vehicle flow, usually compromised walking and biking design.

The Complete Streets movement has successfully motivated over 1,000 policies nationwide. They require mobility for all people, regardless of age, ability, income, race or ethnicity. Policies specify safe, comfortable & convenient access to community destinations & public places. All modes are specified; allowing travelers greater comfort when they desire to walk, drive, bicycle or take public transportation.

These multi-modal policies must also consider unique places in the design of transportation systems. Context based design must specify street and highway elements scaled to match the great diversity of surrounding context. For example, lower target speeds, on-street parking and street tree shade all match the Urban Center context. Conversely, higher speed design, off-street parking and fewer trees, match the Suburban context. Successful land development patterns and context-sensitive street design are symbiotic and state and federal agencies are moving in context sensitive directions.

This course explains emerging context classifications and the way street designs must vary significantly in each context. Many unique design elements, well suited for suburban context are wrong for the urban context. Policies and standards are described to meet the new challenge of greater efficiency and safety for all modes, in all diverse context areas. In class, and in the field, workshop exercises yield better understanding of unique street designs based on adjacent context. 


Construction Mathematics

This course is scheduled for April 4, 2024 - this class has all seats reserved. (Request this course)
Description
Construction inspectors may need to brush up on math skills specifically related to construction inspection, especially basic geometry, fractions, area, volume and conversions. The class lead by Ed Stellfox is a good refresher, and excellent preparation for the construction inspection class. The course was designed for road workers, foremen, superintendants, construction inspectors and supervisors in need of a refresher, especially in preparation for the Construction Inspections class.

Depending on the interest of the participants, the course may cover: whole number and fractions, decimals (for measurement and payment), mixed operation fractions and decimals, formula evaluation, techniques of algebra, ration and proportion, percentage, hints for problem solving, useful formulas, square and square roots, conversion, and transportation construction examples.

*Participants should bring a calculator, scale and straight edge; notebooks will be provided.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Crash and Safety Data Analysis

(Request this course)
Description
This day and a half course instructed by Dane Ismart will cover the following:

  • Crash Data and Computation of Crash Frequency - Using several years data, establish crash rates to compare with similar locations, while explaining hazard indices, conflict analysis, and warrant analysis.
  • Condition Diagramming and Collision Types - Review the process and the elements contained in a condition diagram and use police reports to identify the type, times, conditions or crashes on a collision diagram.
  • Speed Analysis and Traffic Calming - Methods for conducting speed studies, including data collections, sample size, computation of mean, 85th percentile and pace speeds, and controlling speed with traffic calming techniques.
  • Sight Distance Analysis - Methods for determining minimum stop and sight distances will be covered, to check whether sight distances for exercise area are adequate, or should be made improved to be adequate.
  • Pedestrian Safety - Design features such as signing, marking, timing for intersection crossings, crosswalk widths, minimum sidewalk standards including radius, ramps, and specialized HAWK pedestrian crossing.
  • School Crossing Considerations - Review school crossing mitigation measures including school guard criteria, school signs and markings, speed zones, gap analysis, and school crossing signalization.
  • Marking and Signing Considerations - Review marking designs and requirements, including sign design and location requirements as well as both longitudinal and traverse markings specifications according to the MUTCD.
  • Safety Design Issues and Mitigation - Introduce the concept of Improving safety through improved access design and applying them to identify mitigation measures for improving real and potential safety problems.
  • Presentation - Following provided guidelines, each team will present their findings as part of a television interview.

This course is intended for Traffic Engineers, planners, traffic analysts, traffic signal technicians and local officials involved in the planning or design of transportation facilities.

Professional Development Hours: 10.0


Crashes and Statistics (one-day virtual course)

This course is scheduled for May 14, 2024

Description
This course is designed to relate crashes and crash statistics.  The relationship is an important component for analyzing crashes and developing mitigation efforts.  As part of the class, we will start out with the on-line Fatality Analysis Reporting System.  The class will conduct on-line exercises to identify crash statistics for their city, county, or state.  A second on-line program - USLIMITS2 - will be demonstrated and the class will run the program.  USLIMITS2 develops recommendations for assigning the appropriate speeds for roads.  Statistical analysis techniques such as significant crash rates will be demonstrated as well as speed surveys and calculation of 85 percentile speeds.  Also sight distances and speed differentials and their affects will be discussed.   

Agenda:

  • FARS Analysis and Exercise
  • Speed Limits and USLIMITS
  • Significant Crash Rate Analysis
  • Calculation of Median and 85th Percentile
  • Spot speed studies
  • Sight Distance and Speed Differentials
  • Mitigation Measures

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Critical Lane Analysis

(Request this course)
Description
This course will cover the critical lane analysis procedure prescribed by the Maryland counties of Montgomery, Prince George's and Anne Arundel and will also examine other capacity techniques which analyze the critical lane or movement. The course provides comprehensive coverage of the topic through lecture and problem solving. Due to the level of the subject coverage, participants should have a background in basic engineering principles. This course is designed for persons having Traffic Engineering responsibilities. It is oriented specifically to engineers and other individuals who are involved in traffic impact analysis and comparative capacity analysis techniques.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Culvert & Storm Drain System Inspection and Management

(Request this course)
Description
Culvert and storm drain systems are a vital part our of infrastructure that require periodic review and maintenance to achieve their design life, service life and function. This training provides component-based rating systems that enable inspectors to assess culvert and storm drain systems that are newly installed and those that had been installed for a number of years for agency reporting. AASHTO has developed two new guidance documents that delineate acceptable installations for new pipe installed within 30 days of installation and existing culvert asset management rating for previously installed systems. This training helps agencies to develop a transportation asset management plans for their culvert and storm drain system inventories. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials Appendix X5 Pipe Culvert Inspection and Evaluation for New Construction and the AASHTO Culvert and Storm Drain System Inspection Guide, 1st Edition for existing systems will be covered to  provide inspectors with tools for routine conditional assessment of culverts and/or storm drains, along with a reliable and reproducible method to rate the condition of all system components.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0


Design Of Stormsewer Management Systems

(Request this course)
Description
Learn basic hydrology and hydraulic design of stormwater management facilities with an emphasis on conventional Best Management Practices (BMP's). We will discuss various types of practices including detention/retention, infiltration, and filtration systems. Learn how to develop a hydrograph, determine storage requirements, design release structures and perform hydrologic routing.  The two-day course will include design procedures used in the Maryland Stormwater Design Manual.  This course focuses on design practices and is not intended to address policy issues. This course was designed for Engineers, Technicians, and Planners involved with the design of stormwater management facilities, review of plans submitted by consultants and developers, and those responsible for selection and evaluation of BMP's. If you attended Drainage Design and Design of Storm Sewer Systems, you don't want to miss this class.

Professional Development Hours: 15.0.


Designing Pedestrian Facilities for ADA Accessibility

This course is scheduled for August 6, 2024

Description
Upon completion of this day and a half course instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E., the participant will be able to identify applicable laws, regulations, guidelines, and standards pertaining to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Know the requirements for ensuring accessibility in existing facilities vs. work in new construction and alterations. Identify some of the challenges in the Public Right-of-Way (PROW) faced by persons with disabilities. Review design elements necessary for achieving accessibility in the PROW, including work zones. Identify best practices. There will be (weather permitting) a field visit to a nearby intersection to assess its design and accessibility. Topics covered in the course include: 

  • Laws, Regulations, and Pedestrian Characteristics
  • Pedestrian Access Routes
  • Curb Ramps and Other Transitions
  • Detectable Warning Surfaces
  • Pedestrian Crossings
  • Accessible Pedestrian Signals
  • Pedestrian Facilities and Temporary Pedestrian (TPAR) in Work Zones
  • Field Visit

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Designing Safer Roads for Pedestrians and Bicyclists 

(Request this course)

Description
Pedestrians and bicyclists are susceptible to traffic injuries and fatalities, perhaps more so than drivers. Yet we design highways for the mobility of motorized traffic perhaps neglecting the needs of the most vulnerable, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. This course, instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E., will teach participants how to diagnose pedestrian and bicyclist safety deficiencies and select the appropriate countermeasures to make conditions safer for all users. The course includes an overview of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility requirements and a field trip where students will be exposed to various design elements. Engineering countermeasures will be emphasized but education and enforcement countermeasures will also be covered. Upon Completion of the course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand pedestrian and bicyclist traffic
  • Describe their needs,
  • Diagnose crash causes
  • Select proper countermeasures
  • Identify safety-related geometric design elements (including roundabouts and bicycle lanes), and
  • Describe disable pedestrian considerations as per the American with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The following modules will be covered:
  1. Course Introduction
  2. Infrastructure Safety Management
  3. Understanding Pedestrians and Bicyclists
  4. Pedestrians and Bicyclists Countermeasures
  5. ADA Requirements
  6. Roundabouts
  7. Field Trip
  8. Development of a Safety Action Plan
Audience: Engineer, Safety and Roadway Designers as well as individuals with Traffic/Transportation interests.

Drainage Management Systems

(Request this course)
Description
Municipalities need to know the location and condition of their storm water assets to develop and update their management plan. Software can help in that process. This training led by Alan Kercher covers the basics of storm water management, an overview of the software program, the creation of a project map, collection of drainage structure inventory, report generation, and analyzing potential problem areas. The demonstration will have a series of examples used for instruction. Local road managers, municipal engineers, public works employees, and town administrators are encouraged to participate. This course is designed to cover the drainage management software program, not a design manual.

Professional Development Hours: 5.0.


Excavation and Trenching Safety (New Course!)

 
Description
Municipal workers should understand the hazards and how to work safely around trenches and other excavations.  Using OSHA Regulation 29 CFR, 1926.650 as a guide, this class instructed by Glynn Stoffel discusses excavation work hazards, the role of the Competent Person, soil classification methods and testing, cave-in protection systems and their installation, and how to inspect and make safe areas where excavation is conducted.
Audience: Transportation superintendents, supervisors, public works maintenance personnel, equipment operators, inspectors, and anyone who may be involved in underground operations are encouraged to attend this course.
 
Professional Development Hours: 6.0

Flagger Certification

(Request this course)

Description
The safety of workers, motorists and pedestrians is dependent upon the flaggers' performance. Since the flagger position involves safety, proper training is vital; flaggers are expected to pass a test to prove their proficiency and competence level. A MD SHA-approved ATSSA (American Traffic Safety Services Association) flagger card will be issued upon satisfactory completion of this course. This will be valid for 4 years and is acceptable in several states, including MD, VA and DC.

At the end of this class, you should be able to:

  • Describe why proper flagger operations are important
  • List abilities of a good flagger
  • Use standard references as they pertain to flagger control (Federal and Maryland)
  • Know proper flagging signals and procedures
  • Know flagger practices for various typical situations

Course content:

  • Flagger: An Important Profession
  • Flagger Standards/Guidelines
  • Component Parts of TTC Zone
  • Video Presentation
  • Flagging Equipment
  • Flagger Station/Location/Position
  • Flagger Signals
  • Typical Situations/Practices
  • Exam
  • Distribution of Certification Cards

The class instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E. is presented in PowerPoint© and will include a 25-question multiple choice exam and a flagger demonstration (dexterity test).  Students will receive their ATSSA Flagger Certification card the day of the course (upon passing the exam).

The course is intended for anyone whose actions affect safety of contemporary traffic control work zones, including traffic managers, traffic technicians, inspectors and designers.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0.

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Geometric Design

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day workshop instructed by Dane Ismart will introduce plan and design concepts for the development of bicycle facilities.  The course will introduce planning and design concepts for the development of bicycle facilities.  The course was developed to complement the AASHTO Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities. This course was designed for transportation planners and Traffic Engineers who are planning or designing bicycle facilities.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Gravel Road Maintenance

(Request this course)
Description
This course instructed by Ed Stellfox addresses basic maintenance techniques for unpaved and gravel roads. Topics include road materials, blading or dragging, reshaping or regrading for proper crown, regraveling, stabilization or full-depth reclamation, and dust control, with an introduction to road management techniques.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Highway Capacity Analysis

(Request this course)
Description
This course instructed by Dane Ismart provides a working knowledge on the basics of capacity analysis and the use of the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) and Highway Capacity Software.  The course includes lectures and sample problems. Topics addressed will cover the analysis of a wide range of facilities from freeway systems to signalized and unsignalized intersections. Design issues and their effect on capacity will be covered as well as the major changes in the latest version of the Highway Capacity Software.  In this course you will hear how the methodologies were developed. Engineers, planners, traffic analysts, traffic signal technicians and local officials involved in the planning or design of transportation facilities are encouraged to participate.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Highway Capacity Interrupted Flow

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day course instructed by Dane Ismart will cover the theory and methodology of the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual for interrupted flow. The Chapters that will be covered include:

  • Signalized Intersections
  • Unsignalized Intersections (A) Two-Way Stops (B) Four Way Stops
  • Urban Arterial

Changes in each of the interrupted Chapters of the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual will be highlighted during the lectures. The Highway Capacity Software will be demonstrated to the class using sample problems. The new roundabout capacity procedure is covered under a separate course.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Highway Capacity Manual and Level of Service (PE Exam Review)

Description
This class is designed for individuals who want to review the Highway Capacity Manual in preparation for taking the PE Exam.  The course will also serve as a refresher or introduction for participants that are interested in highway capacity.  The course will also review the changes that have been made in the 2016 Version of the Manual.  The two-day course will review traffic flow characteristics, interrupted, and interrupted flow.  Sections covered will include the procedures for signalized and unsignalized (two-way, all-way, and roundabouts) intersections.  Also covered are basic freeway sections, multilane highways, weaving, and ramp analysis.  Emphasis will be placed on explaining the principles behind the HCM and making sure the participants are familiar with the Manual.  The class will participate in a series of manual exercises and workshops to improve their familiarity with the capacity methodology.

Who Should Attend:  Engineers who are planning to take the PE Exam as well as staff who wish to become familiar with the Highway Capacity Manual

Agenda:
Day 1
8:15 AM Introduction
8:30 AM Traffic Flow Characteristics
9:15 AM Break
9:30 AM Signalized Intersections
12:00 Lunch
1:00 PM Unsignalized Intersections
4:30 PM Adjourn
Day 2
8:15 AM Basic Freeway Sections
10:30 AM Multilane Highways
11:30 AM Weaving
12:00 Lunch
1:00 PM Weaving Continued
3:00 PM Ramps
4:30 PM Adjourn

Professional Development Hours: 12.0


Highway Capacity Uninterrupted Flow

(Request this course)
Description:
This one-day course instructed by Dane Ismart will cover the theory and methodology of the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual for uninterrupted flow.  The Chapters that will be covered include:

  • Basic Freeway Sections
  • Weaving
  • Ramps
  • Multilane Highways
  • Two Lane Rural Roads

Changes in each of the uninterrupted Chapters of the 2010 Highway Capacity Manual will be highlighted during the lectures. The Highway Capacity Software will be demonstrated to the class using sample problems.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Intersection Capacity Analysis (New One-day course!)

(Request this course)
Description
This new one-day course will be instructed by Dane Ismart and will cover the below agenda.

8:15      Introduction

8:45      Capacity Principles 

9:30      Break

9:45      Signalized Intersection Principles

10:45    Break

11:00    Signalized Timing, Capacity, and Level of Service

12:00    Lunch

12:45    Field Data Collection Instructions

1:15      Class Collects Field Signalized Intersection Data

2:00      Break

2:15      Manual Capacity and Level of Service Analysis Using the Field Data

3:00      Two-way Stop Sign Capacity Analysis

4:00      Adjourn 

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Intersection Design, Safety and Capacity Analysis (one-day virtual course)

This course is scheduled for April 16, 2024
Description
The Intersection Design course will address how design affects the safety and capacity of the intersection.  The course will start with the determination of whether to signalize an intersection.  Signal warrants will be discussed and the class participant will conduct a warrant exercise.  For the rest of the class geometric design issues will be addressed.  Design features covered include deceleration lanes, corner   clearance, vehicle corner clearance, and corner radiu

Also, functional areas of an intersection will be defined and an exercise to calculate the functional area will be conducted.  A quick review of roundabout design and a comparison will be made of roundabouts versus intersections will be presented.

Finally, the class will end with a summary discussion of how design affects intersection capacity. 

 Agenda:

  • Warrants and Warrant Exercise
  • Geometric Design
  • Deceleration Lanes
  • Corner Clearances
  • Functional Areas
  • Vehicle Clearances
  • Roundabout Design Summary
  • How Design Affects Capacity

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Intersection Signal & Design Analysis

(Request this course)
Description
This course instructed by Dane Ismart will have broad general coverage of at-grade intersection analysis and design features. The analysis will include signalized, unsignalized and roundabout intersections. Specific coverage will include capacity, analysis, signal warrants, queue analysis and safety selected design features. Software packages such as HCS and SIDRA will be demonstrated. This course is targeted for municipal engineers; public works directors; state, federal, and private engineers; planners, designers, and traffic engineers that may be involved in the selection and design of intersections.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Introduction to Access Management

(Request this course)
Description
Traffic engineers have long recognized that eliminating unexpected conflicts and separating decision points improves safety.  Access control reduces the number the number, and spacing of events and driveways.  The greatest benefits are significantly reduced crash rates, less congestion, and higher capacity.  

This course introduces the participants to the principles and techniques as contained in TRB’s Access Management Manual.  The course covers such issues such as median design, driveway spacing, signal spacing, cross street design at interchanges, left turn and right turn lanes, and joint and interconnected driveways.   Examples of good practice are presented to the class.  A series of short class exercises are included in the course.  Mr. Dane Ismart is the instructor for this one-day course.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Introduction to Geosynthetics

(Request this course)
Description
This course is an introduction to geosynthetics, beginning with a discussion of geosynthetics, what they are, how they are made and how they can be used in a road maintenance program. The course then looks at other geosynthetics and their road system uses, including geogrids, geocells and geowebs, presenting new materials with new applications. Designed for municipal officials, road commissioners, supervisors, and superintendents; public works and maintenance personnel; equipment operators; and city or town managers. This course instructed by Ed Stellfox, will cover the following topics: history; materials (geotextile fabrics, geogrids, geocells and geowebs); uses and applications of drainage, erosion control, reinforcement, separation, and reflective crack control.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Introduction to Highway Work Zones in Urban Areas

(Request this course)
Description
This two-day course instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E. will introduce participants to temporary traffic control (TTC) in urban work zones. It is designed to give participants a complete overview of temporary traffic control in urban work zones, including applicable standards, devices used, component parts and their requirements, and installation/removal considerations. Emphasis will be given to considerations and issues that affect urban work zones, such as restricted space, reduced visibility, signals, businesses, pedestrians, utility operations, and others, and potential adjustments.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Introduction to Temporary Traffic Control

This course is scheduled for April 9, 2024
Description

An introductory course to temporary traffic control (TTC)  in highway work zones. This one-day course instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E. is designed to give participants a complete overview of TTC in work zones, including applicable standards, guidelines, traffic control devices, component parts and their requirements, installation/removal considerations, and pedestrian accessibility. This course will prepare participants to take the Maryland SHA Traffic Manager’s course.
 
Topics Covered/Agenda:

  • Introduction to temporary traffic control (TTC)
  • Quantification of the work zone safety problem
  • Standards and guidelines applicable in the State of Maryland (MD SHA)
  • Fundamental principles of TTC
  • Component parts of the TTC zone
  • Temporary traffic control devices
  • Tapers and other transitions 
  • Installation and removal considerations
  • Pedestrian accessibility

The instructor will briefly cover the use of temporary portable rumble strips in work zone areas.

The course is intended for anyone whose actions affect safety on temporary traffic control work zones, including traffic managers, traffic technicians, inspectors and designers.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Low-Cost Safety Improvements

This course is scheduled for March 6, 2024
Description
This course instructed by Dane Ismart, provides participants with methods for implementing effective, low cost safety improvements targeted at high crash areas. It emphasizes the basic and enhanced application of traffic control devices, low cost safety improvements, and their specific safety benefit (crash reduction factors). Traffic crash data collection, identification of hazardous locations, and engineering study procedures are also discussed. Emphasis is placed on low cost solutions that may be made at the local level.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Managing Utility Cuts

(Request this course)
Description
One of the most aggravating occurrences undermining the structural stability of a newly constructed or resurfaced road is the utility repair. This course covers the management of roadway excavations by contractors and utilities through local ordinances or statutes, permits and fees, specifications and proper inspection. State procedures for state roads will be reviewed along with Miss Utility one call requirements, trenching and shoring, and work zone traffic control. The use of flowable fill will be discussed. The session ties everything back to liability and good risk management and closes with tips on program development and implementation.

This course was designed for engineers, inspectors, technicians, supervisors, and local officials involved with the construction and maintenance of roadways, or the inspection of roadway work utilities, and is targeted towards those agencies and jurisdictions which do not have established procedures for permits and inspections of roadway work by utilities and others. It is also appropriate for those that may be revising existing procedures.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


NEW 2010 Highway Capacity Manual

(Request this course)
Description
This three-day workshop instructed by Dane Ismart has been developed for transportation professionals interested in the latest updates and software applications to the 2010 HCM. In addition to a general overview, each procedure will be presented to highlight the changes in the 2010 HCM in comparison with the HCM2000. A detailed demonstration of the HCS 2010 will be included to illustrate how the new methods will be implemented in software. Special attention will be given to those procedures that will change most, including Signalized Intersections, Urban Streets, Roundabouts and Freeway Weaving. The Highway Capacity Software (HCS) will be previewed to demonstrate the new features being implemented in the 2010 version.

Professional Development Hours: 18.0.


The New MD MUTCD One Day Seminar

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day training is to enable participants to become familiar with the new MD MUTCD regarding the application of its principles to their traffic control devices in Maryland.  As of February 3rd, 2012, the new Maryland Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MDMUTCD) has been officially adopted by the State of Maryland.  The workshop, instructed by Dane Ismart, is open to representatives of all traffic engineering and planning organizations and elected officials.  Part of the workshop is also geared towards Local Administrators and Elected Officials.  Agenda will include compliance days for new and existing traffic control devices, new sections within various chapters of the manual, other changes in standards and guidance, procedure for experimentation and interpretation, etc.

Who should attend: State and Local Transportation Engineers, Traffic Engineers, Planners, Elected Officials, and Traffic Engineering Consultants responsible for the placement and maintenance of uniform traffic control devices in Maryland. Sponsors: This workshop is presented by the Maryland T2 Center and is sponsored by The Maryland State Highway administration (SHA) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Pedestrian & Bicycle Accommodation

(Request this course)
Description
This workshop taught by Dane Ismart covers:

  • The criteria bicyclists used to measure how well bicycle facilities meet their needs.
  • The latest 2010 HCM procedures for determining the LOS of both bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
  • The factors needed to provide a safe and comfortable bicycle trip.
  • Various types of bicycle facilities including share paths and their design criteria.
  • The proper markings and stripings for bike lanes.
  • The placement and design of bike lanes at intersections.
  • The design of bike lanes through interchanges.      

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

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Preventive Pavement Maintenance (Learn about seal coates, slurry seals and microsurfacing)

This course is scheduled for March 14, 2024
Description
This course is the first step in making your asphalt pavements last longer at lower costs. The course instructed by Ed Stellfox covers preventive maintenance treatments such as chip seals, slurry seals, and micro-surfacing and discusses when and where each technique could be effective. It presents application methods, including preparation, materials, equipment, operations and safety, along with practical tips on how to avoid trouble.
This course is open to municipal officials, road commissioners, supervisors, and superintendents; public works and maintenance personnel; equipment operators; and city or town managers.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Project Development for Federal-Aid Projects (How Not to Become Non-Participating)

(Request this course)
Description
State DOTs and local agencies when developing projects involving federal-aid must follow a prescribed set of rules, regulations, and procedures. This course will cover the various steps necessary to meet the federal requirements. The course will be initiated with a discussion of categorical funds and what activities they are eligible for. A detailed presentation will be made on how the federal highway financial system works and the process that determines the amount of federal funds that will be available to the States and MPOs. Presentations will then be made on federal rules to meet planning and environmental requirements, right-of- way rules and requirements (the Uniform Act), design standards, the bridge inspection program requirements. Federal contract requirements will also be presented that discuss a broad of issues such as use of proprietary materials, contract bidding rules, contract provisions, etc. Class exercises will be used to demonstrate typical real life issues involving the development of federal-aid projects. 

Who Should Attend: State DOT and local staff and officials involved in the development of transportation projects using federal-aid funds.
 
Professional Development Hours: 12.0

Project Development with Federal Aid

(Request this course)
Description
State DOTs and local agencies when developing projects involving federal-aid must follow a prescribed set of rules, regulations, and procedures. This course instructed by Dane Ismart will cover the various steps necessary to meet the federal requirements. The course will be initiated with a discussion of categorical funds and what activities they are eligible for.  A detailed presentation will be made on how the federal highway financial system works and the process that determines the amount of federal funds that will be available to the States and MPOs. Presentations will then be made on federal rules  to meet planning and environmental requirements, right-of-way rules and requirements (the Uniform Act), design standards, the bridge inspection program requirements.  Federal contract requirements will also be presented that discuss a broad of issues such as use of proprietary materials, contract bidding rules, contract provisions, etc. Class exercises will be used to demonstrate typical real life issues involving the development of federal-aid projects.
This course is intended for State and Local Government personnel involved with federal funded projects.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Right-of-Way Requirements for Local Public Agency Federal-Aid Projects NEW COURSE!

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day course covers an overview of the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Act and its application especially for Local Public Agency Federal-Aid Projects.  The primary training goal for this course is to provide a better understanding of the various requirements and pitfalls Local Public Agencies may experience during ROW acquisition and the potential of the loss of federal-aid when these requirements are not met.  As part of the course subjects that. will be covered include on the Uniform Act, Administration, Valuation, Acquisition and Negotiation, Relocation Assistance, and Property Management.

Who Should Attend:  Local Planning Agency staff and other public and private staff involved with Federal-aid local projects involving ROW acquisition.

Agenda:

8:00 AM                      Registration

8:15 AM                      Course Introduction – Why This Is Important

8:45 AM                      Introduction to the Uniform Act

10:30 AM                    Break

10:45 AM                     Project Delivery and Administration

11:45 AM                    Lunch

12:45 PM                     Valuation

1:45 PM                       Break

2:00 PM                       Acquisition and Negotiation

3:00 PM                       Break

3:15 PM                       Relocation Assistance and Property Management                         

4:15 PM                        Adjourn 

Professional Development Hours: 6.0
 


Road Diets (Road Configuration) Workshop - New Course!

Description
The course instructed by Dane Ismart covers the design, safety, and operations of road diets.  Road diets, although they come in many different designs, reduce the number of through lanes and allocate excess roadway width to parking, bicycle lanes, freight movements, and transit operations.  The classical design reduces a 4-lane undivided highway to three lanes consisting of one through lane in each direction and a continuous two lane left turn in the middle.  A road diet may also reduce the widths of lanes as well when appropriate. The advantages, disadvantages, various road diet configurations, guidance, and criteria for determining the feasibility of implementing a road diet are discussed.  Safety and operational considerations as well as examples of actual case studies are part of the course.  The after results of example corridors that are renovated and redesigned as road diets are presented.  The course is concluded with the class broken up to teams that work on a corridor problem and present their solution and road diet design. 
 
Audience: This Workshop will be of interest to Engineers, Transportation Planners, Pedestrian and Bicycle Coordinators, Safe Routes to School Coordinators, Local Public Agency Coordinators, and Transportation Alternatives Program Managers.
 
Professional Development Hours: 6.0.
 

Road Safety 365 - A Safety Workshop for Local Governments

This course is scheduled for September 10, 2024
Description
This course instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E. is designed to provide local and rural agencies with practical and effective ways to mainstream safety solutions into their day-to-day activities and project development process. This one-day workshop focuses on processes for incorporating safety into all aspects of local and rural projects, and on making safety a priority through inclusion in the traditional decision-making process - 365 days a year. The course stresses the importance of road safety, and illustrates how it can be integrated into rural/local transportation project development at all stages: planning, design, construction, implementation, operations, and maintenance. Through practical exercises and facilitator-led discussions, the emphasis is on operations and maintenance to reflect the predominant, day-to-day responsibilities of rural/local transportation agencies. The benefits and potential cost savings of safety initiatives are shown using examples from rural/local agencies.

The workshop audience ranges from decision-makers to road crews. It is aimed primarily at local and rural road and public works supervisors. Others who would benefit include: elected officials, public safety advocates, State DOT personnel, law enforcement, consultants, regional and rural development organizations, municipal associations.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Road Safety Audit

(Request this course)

Description
The new half day course for municipal officials who want to improve the overall safety of their roads will find the Road Safety Audit (RSA) is a good tool for meeting their goals. Conducted through a formal process, an RSA ends with a report and plan to improve safety for all road users. These audits can be completed quickly in the hopes of identifying potential safety issues before crashes occur. Municipalities may conduct road safety audits on existing roads and intersections or during any phase of project development, from planning and preliminary engineering through design and construction.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for local government officials responsible for the installation, maintenance, and inspection of traffic signs, roadway safety, and asset management. This includes traffic technicians, public works directors, supervisors, roadmasters, and crews responsible for traffic signs.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0


Road Safety Audits

(Request this course)
Description
The purpose of this workshop is to provide local rural governments with an ability to develop a practical safety improvement program based upon applying the concepts of a road safety audit review. The target audience is local rural government agency personnel that may be interested in developing a safety program and applying the concepts of a road safety audit review.  County Engineers and road supervisors and commissioners will find this workshop beneficial to their safety programs. The course would also be beneficial for forest service, national park, BLM, BIA, and other entities concerned with safety on rural roads.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Roadway Safety Fundamentals

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day course instructed by Mark Hood will cover the following topics:

  • Basics of road safety: why, when, and where crashes occur
  • Solving fundamental traffic safety problems
  • Using traffic control devices to improve safety: signs, signals, pavement markings, and maintenance
  • Common roadway safety issues: curves, stopping sight distance, edge drop-offs, etc.
  • Basic Intersection Safety

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Road Surface Management

This course is scheduled for April 11, 2024

Description
This course instructed by Ed Stellfox provides participants with the basic concepts of road surface management including inventory, distress identification, condition survey, strategies, programs, budgets, and field surveys. A Road Surface Management Systems software demonstration will also be conducted during this course.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

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Roundabout Planning and Design

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day workshop lead by Dane Ismart will highlight the new procedure to roundabouts as per the NEW 2010 Highway Capacity Manual. Topics covered in the roundabout course will include geometric design, signing, striping, safety, and accommodation of pedestrians and bicyclists. An important component of the course will be a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of roundabouts. HCS 2010 software will be used to demonstrate the US Roundabout Capacity procedure rather than SIDRA and Rodel. Maryland’s Roundabout Guide will also be discussed and included as part of the course. Transportation Planners and Traffic Engineers who are planning or designing a modern roundabout are encouraged to participate.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Safe Work Practices On and Around Heavy Equipment (New Course!)

Jobs requiring heavy equipment demand that all persons on the job recognize the hazards that exist when operating and working around this equipment.  The class provides a comprehensive overview of how to safely operate and work with the equipment used in highway and utility construction and maintenance work.
 
The subjects covered include:
  • OSHA standards for heavy equipment
  • Job site hazard recognition and abatement 
  • Safe operation of backhoes, excavators and graders
  • Safe operation of front-end and skid-steer loaders
  • Hand signals and other communication techniques
  • Safely working around heavy equipment
  • Safely working around dump trucks and other mobile equipment
  • Safe excavation techniques
  • Safe rigging and lifting techniques 
  • Safe street driving and transport of heavy equipment
Professional Development Hours: 6.0

Safety through Access Management 

(Request this course)
Description

Traffic engineers have long recognized that eliminating unexpected events and separating decision points simplifies the driving task.  Since access control reduces the number, complexity, and spacing of events to which the driver must respond, it results in improved traffic operation and reduces accidents.  Other benefits include reduced delay, improved traffic flow, increased capacity, and improved fuel economy.  This course covers not only why, but also how to manage access, from a policy, legal, and design perspective. This two-day short course instructed by Dane Ismart coveres the following topics:

  • Access management policies
  • Access design principles
  • Trip generation
  • Access management techniques
  • Retrofit programs
  • Access and median design guidelines
  • Site plans and access for major activity centers
  • Evaluation of improvements
  • Workshops

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


School Crossing Design & Safety Analysis (New Course!)

Description
 
The School Crossing Design Course instructed by Dane Ismart will cover the recommended guidelines for school crossings.  Various issues such as determining the school area boundaries, signing and markings for school crossing areas, and design criteria will be covered.  Requirements and guidelines as covered by the Maryland MUTCD will be reviewed as part of the class.  How to select treatments such as potential signalization, crossing guards, pedestrian cross walks, coverage, school speed zones and speed monitoring, location of traffic control devices, and warrants will be presented to the class. The Safe Routes to School program will be reviewed. Sources for information and school crossing information will be given to the class as well as innovative school treatments from other states.   A class exercise will be conducted by the partricipants to demonstrate the application of the procedures and design principles for implementing school crossing treatments.   
 
Audience: Local and state planners and designers, school officials and associations involved in school transportation, and transportation consultants. 
 
Professional Development Hours: 6.0

Selected Topics In Highway Design & Safety

(Request this course)
Description
This two-day course will cover several aspects of highway design and safety. Some selected topics include cross-section, super-elevation, spiral design, vertical alignment, and sight distance design. The course will also explore determining speed profiles, passing and delay on two-lane highways, design consistency estimates and safety as well as infrastructure coefficient and its relationship to crashes. This workshop is targeted to traffic operations engineers, highway design engineers, and planners in the private and public sectors.

Professional Development Hours: 20.0.


Sign Inventory Management Systems

(Request this course)
Description
Motorists rely on traffic signs to regulate, warn, and guide themselves and others. The courts have consistently held governmental entities responsible for adequate placement and maintenance of traffic signs. The Sign Inventory Management System was developed to help effectively maintain traffic signs and document the effort at the same time. As a management system, SIMS goes beyond a simple inventory to include repair decisions, priority analysis, repair options, and parts management. A SIMS training/users manual and SIMS software will be provided. This class instructed by Alan Kercher was designed for local road managers from small to medium size municipalities; individuals who conduct inventories and condition assessments; SIMS computer operators and data base managers.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0, for more information about PDHs, visit our FAQ page.

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Signalized Intersection

(Request this course)
Description
This two-day course instructed by Dane Ismart, Signalized Intersection will cover the Highway Capacity Manual procedures for evaluating signalized intersections. The methodologies used to calculate signalized intersection capacity will be discussed in detail. The course will also demonstrate how design and safety should be considered and coordinated when considering intersection capacity. Comparisons between signalized and unsignalized intersection's (two-way and four-way stops, and roundabouts) capacity and delays will be made and discussed. MUTCD warrants for signalized intersections will be reviewed.

As part of the course, the class will conduct a field study and collect intersection field data and delay. After the field study, the class will conduct a capacity analysis. Capacity software computer programs such as HCM, SIDRA, and Synchro will be demonstrated and used to estimate the capacity of the intersection visited as part of the field study.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Signalized Intersection Design and Timing

(Request this course)
Description
This course reviews the Highway Capacity Manual procedure for determining the capacity and level of service for signalized intersections.  In the course we explore the impacts of cycle length, progressive timing, phasing, left turn treatments, NEMA movements, storage areas and queueing, approach volumes, blockages such as parking and buses, green times, and lost times on the operations of a signalized intersection.  As part of the course in the afternoon the class goes to a field site and collects information at a selected signalized intersection.  The field data is then used by the class to calculate the delay and level of service using the HCS software.  Variations to the cycle length, timing, and phasing are explored to determine the optimize settings that minimize delay and improve the level of service. 

Who should attend:  Engineers and planners who want a better understanding between the characteristics of signals and timing and levels of service and control delay. 

Professional Development Hours: 6.0

Registration Fees: There is a $110 registration fee for all participants.


To Signalize or not to Signalize: MUTCD Warrants
(Signal Warrant and Intersection Control Analysis)

This course is scheduled for June 26, 2024
Description
The To Signalize or Not To Signalize Course instructed by Dane Ismart covers the MUTCD criteria for determining whether the installation of a traffic control signal is justified at a particular location. The course includes an analysis of the factors for existing operations and safety at study locations and the potential to improve these conditions. The following warrants are discussed in detail and include:

  • Warrant 1 – Eight-Hour Vehicular Volume
  • Warrant 2 – Four-Hour Vehicular Volume
  • Warrant 3 – Peak Hour
  • Warrant 4 – Pedestrian Volumes
  • Warrant 5 – School Crossing
  • Warrant 6 – Coordinated Signal System
  • Warrant 7 - Crash Experience
  • Warrant 8 – Roadway Network
  • Warrant 9 – Intersection Near a Railroad Grade Crossing
The course will also cover warrants for four-way stops as well as alternatives to traffic control signals. A detailed discussion of the advantages and disadvantages both in the terms of capacity and safety of various types of traffic controls will be presented. The basis for both the installation and the removal of traffic control devices will be discussed.
 
As part of the course, workshop problems will be given to the class participants. The class will be provided intersection field data and will determine if signals are warranted for the sample intersections. After completing the intersection analysis. MUTCD signal analysis software will be demonstrated and the workshop problems will be evaluated based on the microcomputer analysis.
 
Who Should Attend: Traffic Engineers and transportation planners involved in the design and planning of corridors and intersections.
 
Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

Site Impact Analysis

This course is scheduled for April 2, 2024
Description
This course will cover the ITE Trip Generation Report and ITE’s procedure for conducting a traffic impact study.  The content includes discussions on site impact methodology, development of background traffic, evaluation of existing and future conditions, trip generation rates, trip distribution, mode split, traffic assignment, and impact mitigation strategies.  Special attention is paid to trip generation and includes how to use the ITE tables, pass-by trips, and internal capture.  The completion of the course will increase the participants understanding of traffic impact studies.  

This course is designed for transportation engineers, traffic engineers, and planners concerned about the impacts of site impact development. 

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Speed Management and Establishing Speeds

This course is scheduled for May 8, 2024
Description
The Speed Management One-day Course reviews the relationship between speeding and fatalities as well as injury accidents. As part of the Course the Fatality Analysis Reporting System and the Query System are demonstrated and incorporated into fatal crash analysis to determine what works for reducing the crash rate. An important issue that is included in the course is how to establish aspeed limit. The free online FHWA USLIMITS2 expert system for developing recommended speed limits for both urban and rural areas is demonstrated and incorporated in a class exercise. A series of lectures are given to establish a toolbox of techniques for reducing fatal and injury crashes. The class is presented with a problem and asked to establish their safety program.
When discussing the toolbox of safety techniques, the participants are presented with various traffic calming techniques. The techniques are discussed in terms of safety, speed,diversion, and cost effectiveness.

Course Outline
8:15 Introduction
8:45 Speeding Characteristics
9:30 Break
9:45 Establishing a Speed Limit
10:00 US LIMITS2 Class Exercise
10:30 Break
10:45 Speed Related Roadway Departures
11:45 Lunch
12:30 Fatality Analysis Reporting System Class Exercise
1:15 Speed Related Intersection Fatalities
2:00 Break
2:15 Pedestrian and Bicycle Speeding Fatalities
3:15 Traffic Calming Techniques to Control Speed
4:00 Adjourn

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Storm Sewer Systems and Pavement Drainage

(Request this course)
Description
This two-day course provides students with a thorough knowledge of surface pavement drainage design and hydraulic design of storm sewer systems. The course includes a brief review of hydrology for pavements, detailed information on sizing curb open inlets, grates, and curb and gutter flow. One day is spent on sizing storm sewers, computing energy losses and hydraulic grade line calculations. Example problems are performed using monographs and calculators (bring your calculator!)

This course is intended for engineers, consultants, designers, technicians, and planners involved with the design of stormsewer facilities, review of plans submitted by consultants and developers, or those responsible for policy related issues. Those involved in other areas of drainage who would like to obtain a better understanding of the design practices are also encouraged to attend. The course will benefit individuals who are new to this field as well as those with much experience.

Students should have some algebra and trigonometry skills, and bring: pencils, a straightedge, and a calculator (scientific functions are helpful but not required).

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.

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Stormwater and Erosion Sediment Control

(Request this course)
Description
Course will deal with design and construction of erosion and sediment control and stormwater management BMP’s. The course will focus on the design elements for most construction sites disturbing more than one acre of land. The course covers NPDES construction permit requirements, design procedures, available resources for design and other regulatory requirements. Also included are examples of drawings and text. The course emphasizes selection and design of appropriate erosion and sediment control, temporary and permanent best management practices (BMPs), proper location of BMPs, and application of bid quantity/payment items. Examples and exercises in the class include road, linear, residential, and commercial construction operations. The course will also cover maintenance and is designed for those who inspect, maintain or direct maintenance on stormwater control measures and practices, such as ponds and infiltration systems.  Attendees will learn the fundamentals of BMP processes, mechanics, operations and maintenance needs, and how to create and execute a maintenance work plan.

Who should attend: Parks/public works staff, consultants (designers/engineers),  private contractors, stormwater managers, private land owners (big and small properties), property managers/HOA, BMP/project designers, and/or anyone with stormwater BMP responsibilities

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Stormwater Management - Erosion and Sediment Control

(Request this course)

Description
Design of construction stormwater pollution plans focusing on the stormwater polution prevention plan (SWPPP) design elements for most construction sites disturbing more than one acre of land. The course covers National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) construction permit requirements, design procedures and other regulatory requirements. The course emphasizes selection and design of appropriate temporary and permanent best management practices (BMPs) and proper location of BMPs. Examples and exercises in the class include road, linear, residental, and commercial construction operations.

Audience: Engineers, planners, inspectors, contractors, municpal, county and/or state employees who are invovled in the design specifications, construction, maintenance and regulatory issues related to stormwater management and watershed protection. 

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Strategies for Improving Highway Safety

(Request this course)
Description
To acquaint the participants with the options available to reduce traffic congestion and increase mobility. The course will examine the causes behind the growing congestion problem and specific strategies that can be taken to reduce it. This two-day seminar is intended for local transportation officials, primarily highway and traffic engineers, involved with the planning and design of highway facilities. An engineering background is not required. An optional third day includes a hands-on workshop, where participants apply the strategies learned.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Strategies to Alleviate Traffic Congestion

This course is scheduled for October 1, 2024
Description
This 1-day course presents an overall framework for developing a coordinated program to provide a good multimodal transportation service to the community; thus alleviating the traffic congestion problem.

Course Objectives:

  • To help participants understand the traffic congestion problem
  • To discuss development of a coordinated program to alleviate traffic congestion
  • To discuss strategies available to help alleviate the traffic congestion problem

Upon completion, participants will:

  • Understand the traffic congestion problem
  • Have the knowledge necessary to develop a coordinated program to alleviate traffic congestion (improve mobility & accessibility)
  • Know strategies available to fight congestion:
    • Existing roadways
    • New roadways
    • Providing transit services
    • Managing transportation demand

Modules Covered:

  • Module 1:  Understanding Traffic Congestion
  • Module 2:  Development of a Coordinated Program
  • Module 3:  Existing Highway Systems
  • Module 4:  Building New Capacity
  • Module 5: Providing Transit Services
  • Module 6: Managing Transportation DemandModule 7: Closing

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Street Access Design and Driveway Location (New Course!)

This course is scheduled for June 12, 2024
Description
This one-day course will include:

  1. Discuss the impact of access management on highway safety and operations.
  2. List benefits of access management.
  3. Discuss typical roadway access challenges in your area.
  4. Choosing access management techniques to mitigate roadway challenges.
  5. Discuss Maryland’s access management guidelines and designs.

Who should attend:

  • Designers, planners, and safety city, county,  State, and consultant staff.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0


Techniques for Reducing Construction and Maintenance Costs

(Request this course)
Description
Counties and municipalities bear a considerable financial burden with respect to the construction and maintenance of roadways. Inflation, increasing cost of labor, materials and fuel have risen steeply in the past few years. At the same time, municipal budgets have not kept pace. It is essential to conserve resources, find energy efficient and low maintenance materials and to use more efficient techniques. This workshop instructed by Ed Stellfox, will conclude with groups of participants developing a cost control plan for a project.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

(Request this course)
Description
Maybe you have heard about The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People – the best-seller business book.Now you have a chance to attend two days of training based on this same book. This training experience lead by Kim Carr provides the foundation to strengthen the human side of performance at the personal, managerial, and organizational levels. This program equips employees with the tools and skills to work at the highest levels of effectiveness, both with and through others. The content of this training helps build stronger organizations by strengthening and exercising the character and competence of the individuals within them. During the workshop, you’ll experience interactive exercises, case studies, and poignant video segments, and learn from the experiences of other participants.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Tort Liability & Risk Management

(Request this course)
Description
This workshop instructed by Ronald Eck provides an overview of the legal duties and responsibilities of roadway personnel. Key legal concepts relating to the liability of roadway agencies are reviewed from a risk management standpoint. Common types of claims/lawsuits brought against street departments and highway agencies are identified through examples/case studies. Risk management principles and practical risk management activities will be identified.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Traffic Calming

This course is scheduled for March 12, 2024

The Maryland Transportation Technology (T2) Center is offering this 1-day training seminar instructed by Dane Ismart on the principles and practices of Traffic Calming. This Traffic Calming seminar is designed to present a broad-based understanding of traffic calming philosophy and measures while recognizing and preserving the function of roadways. This course is adapted toward state and local government officials and employees who are charged with enhancing roadway safety.

The seminar will focus on the appropriateness and effectiveness of various traffic calming measures as well as the specifics of designing such measures to achieve their desired effect. Attendees will work on a workshop to develop appropriate traffic calming solutions for a neighborhood. Upon completion of the workshop session, the participants will present their solutions to the class. The goal of the course is that participants will leave with a basic understanding of what traffic calming is, and what issues are typically encountered when using traffic calming techniques. Students will receive a course notebook.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

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Traffic Engineering Fundamentals

This course is scheduled for April 23-24, May 6-7, 2024 (must attend all four days)
Description
This course instructed by Dane Ismart and Juan M. Morales, P.E. condenses what was the five-day Traffic Engineering Short Course into a new four-day course.

Agenda Day One:
  • Introduction
  • Traffic Engineering Terms and Design Year Traffic
  • Break
  • Site Impact Analysis
  • Lunch
  • Safety Principles and Crash Principles
  • Break
  • Principles of Access Management

Agenda Day Two:

  • Intersection Analysis and Geometrics
  • Break
  • Signal Timing
  • Lunch
  • Arterial and Freeway Analysis
  • Break
  • MUTCD

Agenda Day Three:

  • Roundabout Basics
  • Break
  • ITS Overview
  • Break
  • Traffic Calming
  • Lunch
  • Pedestrian Safety
  • Break
  • ADA Accessibility

Agenda Day Four:

  • Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)
  • Break
  • Temporary Traffic Control (TTC) Standards and Guidelines
  • Break
  • Component Parts of a TTC Zone
  • Lunch
  • Temporary Traffic Control Devices
  • Break
  • Positive Protection

Audience: This course is geared towards anyone with an engineering background and/or traffic engineering responsibilities in a related field. Also junior level traffic engineers, transportation planners, highway designers and city/county engineers.

Professional Development Hours: 24.0.


Traffic Signs

(Request this course)
Description
This half-day course instructed by Ed Stellfox  will cover the regulations and guidelines for traffic signs including; regulatory signs, warning signs, and guide signs. A review of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) will also be covered. An in depth discussion of sign examples, installation and maintenance, as well as sign management will be covered.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0.


Traffic Sign Installation & Inspection

(Request this course)
Description
This one-day course instructed by Mark Hood will cover the basics of traffic signs: using the appropriate rules and regulations to select and apply appropriate traffic signs, as well as proper installation and maintenance techniques. Participants will learn the importance of and the basic rules for signing, inspection techniques for sign installations, and maintenance procedures for sign faces and supports. This course was designed for technicians, supervisors, & crew involved in sign assembly, installation, maintenance, inspection, or management.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Traffic Sign Retroreflectivity

(Request this course)
Description
To provide nighttime sign visibility, most signs are made from retroreflective sheeting.  Retroreflectivity is the property of a material that re-directs light back to the originating source.  The Federal Highway Administration has adopted new traffic sign retroreflectivity requirements that are included as Revision 2 of the 2003 Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).  To comply with the new requirements, public agencies have until January 2012 to implement and then continue to use an assessment or management method that is designed to maintain traffic sign retroreflectivity at or above the minimum levels specified.  Five assessment or management methods are defined in the MUTCD as acceptable maintenance methods for traffic signs. This workshop instructed by Ronald Eck, is intended for those directly involved in sign maintenance, particularly sign retroreflectivity.  Participants will be “walked through” the assessment techniques available for conducting sign maintenance with respect to retroreflectivity.  Specific objectives of the workshop are to: review the new MUTCD requirements, understand sign inspection methods that can be used to evaluate sign retroreflectivity in compliance with the new requirements, and learn traffic sign inspection techniques that can assess sign retroreflectivity.

This workshop is aimed at roadway agency personnel who install and maintain signs and who want to learn more about the assessment methods that can be used to comply with the new MUTCD requirements.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.

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Transportation Asset Management

(Request this course)
Description
This course instructed by Alan Kercher introduces the main elements of transportation asset management (TAM). TAM provides the framework and management tools necessary to cost-effectively deal with the ever-increasing inventory of aging roadways, bridges and roadside infrastructure.  Deteriorating infrastructure coupled with the dramatic fluctuations in construction costs, the retirement of experienced transportation workers, and the increased competition for available funding is overwhelming many public works agencies. TAM provides agencies with the tools to save money by systematically selecting the right repair at the right time at the right location in order to minimize the life-cycle costs of assets while increasing the level of service. This course will cover the processes and tools necessary to help transportation agencies document asset conditions, optimize allocation of resources, and determine the most effective use of available funds. A main emphasis of the course will be a focus on how to successfully implement a TAM system to ensure that all levels of an agency are making informed decisions, both short-term and long-term that will improve the overall operational efficiency of the organization.  The course also illustrates available tools to support the use of TAM in any public agency and provides guidelines for the implementation of these principles. The workshop audience ranges from managers, engineers and planners to road crew supervisors.  Others who would benefit include: elected officials and state DOT personnel.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Trenching Safety

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Description
Anytime anyone excavates a trench, safety should be a number one priority. This course discusses the inherent dangers of trenching operations and outlines the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) rules and regulations on construction excavation. Recognizing the potential cave-in factors, identifying soils, using proper sloping and shoring techniques, and backfilling are all discussed, along with pneumatic and hydraulic shoring systems. A review and work problems using OSHA’s timber shoring charts gives the participants knowledge and use of this valuable resource. A review of work zone traffic control and the one-call system (Miss Utility) will also be presented. The session will close with discussions on the importance of a qualified inspector and recordkeeping.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Understanding Design and Maintenance for Roads for Elected Officials

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Description
This course instructed by Ed Stellfox is the first step in understanding the problems that a Municipal Road department faces on a daily basis. This course designed for elected officials conveys an understanding of design and maintenance of municipal roads that will make your life easier when dealing with Road Superintendents, Public Works Directors, Foremen, etc. It also gives elected officials a better understanding of what is involved in a road and street budget. This is an excellent course for: Municipal elected/appointed officials, road commissioners, supervisors, and city or town managers.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Winter Maintenance

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Description
This course covers all aspects of winter operations- planning and organizing, methods of snow and ice control, salt usage, and winter equipment maintenance. Instructed by Ed Stellfox this lesson will include usage of snow maps, formal snow plans, snow plow and salt spreader operation. This course in intended for municipal officials, road commissioners, supervisors, superintendents, publics works and maintenance personnel, equipment operators, and city or town managers.

Professional Development Hours: 6.0.


Work Zone Design

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Description
The course instructed by Juan M. Morales, P.E. will give participants knowledge of the entire temporary traffic control (TTC) process: planning, design, review, installation, maintenance, and inspection of temporary traffic control for highway work zones. Issues regarding planning, design, review, and operation of temporary traffic control are covered, including pedestrian accessibility, worker safety, human factors, and legal aspects.

The material is based on Part 6 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and are modified to address Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) TTC standards and guidelines. 
 
Topics Covered:
  • Introduction to TTTC
  • TTC Standards and Guidelines (MUTCD and MD SHA)
  • Fundamental Principles of Traffic Control
  • Human Factors
  • Component Part of the TTC Zones
  • Traffic Control Devices
  • The Typical Project
    • Planning
    • Design
    • Installation
    • Inspection
    • Enhancements and Modifications
    • Constructability Reviews
    • Removal
  • Traffic Control Plan Strategies
  • MD SHA Standards, Guidelines and Practices
  • Legal Aspects of TTC
  • Workshops

The course is aimed at individuals who are responsible for the design, review, or modification of temporary traffic control for work zones adjacent to and within roads and highways.  The course will also be of interest to those responsible for installation, operation, and inspection.

Professional Development Hours: 12.0.


Work Zone Traffic Control

(Request this course)
Description
This half-day course instructed by Ed Stellfox will discuss the importance of work zone traffic control (WZTC) covering topics such as safety and liability. Regulations and guidelines will also be discussed with topics ranging from traffic control plans, traffic control devices, installation, and flagging procedures. Plan exercise and inspection of work zones will also be covered.

Professional Development Hours: 4.0