Jim Humphrey’s (CDOT) notes from the May 5-6 BOT meeting.
One change for the meeting….an ethics statement is read and all members are required to sign a sheet of paper indicating they will abide by the ethics policy.
Secretary’s Comments-Conti passed out a rail program pamphlet that will be produced periodically. Mentioned opening of I-40, award of Phase I of Yadkin River bridge (HDR, a Charlotte firm is member of team), Turnpike Authority awarded contract for electronic toll collection (upon question was stated NCTA still considering use of cash toll stations at request of companies who may finance and operate), Paul Worley of Rail Division won national award….
The Built Environment-2 gentlemen spoke on how infrastructure, particularly sidewalks and bike facilities, can help with physical well being. Lots of good statistics and info on how NC is doing (low…not well). Interesting, the Complete Streets Policy which the BOT approved in July 2009 was a highlight as great improvement initiative.
Legislative Agenda-Johanna Reese spoke of the Mobility Fund in the Governor’s budget as well as about the 3 bills you already have heard about. Regarding the Mobility Fund, Mark Foster indicated the funds may be used for some non DOT traditional items….I think he meant some web and information technology related investments to assist logistics or ED (he mentioned in other meetings I attended that DOT is developing a list of the types of things these funds may be used on, so this should help clarify). Hearing a paragraph has been added to legislation that ensures an inclusive process, with cities and MPOs among others, to develop criteria for funding. Regarding the three bills, Johanna specifically stated that one bill would remove language so that the NCDOT could consider local funding assistance in project funding decisions.
Logistics Task Force-Roberto Canales presented info on the history and work program. A report was developed previously that indicated the types of things NC should do to improve logistics/freight movement. Roberto described that report as a plan calling for more planning. The task force has the general job of “creating new jobs and recruiting industry thro the movement of goods and information” (his description) and is undertaking the planning mentioned previously.
Initiatives for Historically Under Utilized Businesses-Several NCDOT speakers presented info on their efforts to attract and utilize minority and other business.
Financial Update-Mark Foster indicated they are seeing some positive turnaround in revenues. He described the Governor’s transportation budget recommendations which included $52m more for the Highway Fund (primary use was putting back in Driver Education dollars removed previously) and $80m+ in Highway Trust Fund (Mobility Fund). Mark also spoke of a new financial system for large MPOs which helps them better manage federal dollars designated for their projects (CMAQ and STP primarily). My impression is that the system is already in use by MPOs. It would seem to help folks keep track of projects, including phased projects…understand how much money is unspent….and when certain money most be spent. Apparently some problems existed during the recent rescission that demonstrated MPOs need such a system.
Eco Enhancement Program-Bill Gilmore outlined the programs which performs wetland and stream restoration “off site” that may be called for as part of NCDOT projects. He also went over the proposed budget which the board will be asked to approve next month.
Cash Management Model Demo-Postponed until next month.
DMV Revenue Shortfall-The head of DMV spoke of decreases in revenues caused by the slow economy and concern over the increase in expired licenses….which is not only a financial concern to NCDOT, but also a concern that these vehicles may lack liability insurance. He did not present any solution.
Turnpike Authority-David Joyner presented a status report regarding all projects. He called the Monroe Connector the “most viable toll project in the state”. They are pursuing federal TIFIA funding but have produced financial models with and without these dollars. He stated construction would start in early 2011 and it would be open to traffic in 2014/2015. David stated challenges to the NCTA include rising interest rates, recessionary impact on growth and revenue forecast, securing funding in lieu of federal TIFIA loans and securing gap funds for unfunded designated toll projects.
Jim Humphrey
