2025 conference Sessions recap 

Balancing Safety and Efficiency: MDOT Strategic Project Development

One of the sessions developed and facilitated by the Project Development Subcommittee at the MdQI 2025 Conference was Balancing Safety and Efficiency: MDOT Strategic Project Development. The intent of this session was on the development of Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) plans for infrastructure projects, emphasizing the safety of both workers and the traveling public while aiming to enhance productivity and reduce inconvenience.

The team accomplished this intent through three separate focused discussions. The first of which was a discussion of the considerations that weigh into the development of MOT plans currently on SHA projects, some other considerations that warrant being included as the development process evolves, and a review of ways that development of work zones can impact driver behavior within these work zones. This was followed by an examination or case study of the MOT utilized by MTA at a couple of at grade intersection replacement jobs, including the considerations that went into the development, best practices, strategies, and key takeaways from the development and execution of these projects. 

Finally, the team wrapped up the presentation by including an industry partner/ practitioner. This brought in some insight from the construction side of the industry on strategies for communicating differently and emphasizing work zone safety rather than just MOT and thought-provoking questions from the perspective of the driver and contractor or MDOT to illustrate the varying priorities that all interact in an active work zone.

Early Coordination for Project Development, Design PM's Awareness, & Understanding

The MdQI Utility and Project Development Subcommittees partnered to deliver a joint session on the continued education and need for Early Utility Coordination for Project Development on MDOT Projects. Read more. 

Like 2019 and 2021 Early Utility Coordination Sessions, the Utility Subcommittee will have Project Development Subcommittee members speak to how this process assists Project Managers with an improved understanding of the corridor’s inventory, other projects in the area, and the Roles and Responsibilities of key staff for successful Project Delivery.

Low-Carbon Transportation Materials and Environmental Product Declarations - MDOT SHA Plans and Updates

The session on Low-Carbon Transportation Materials (LCTM) was interactive and highly patronized by stakeholders from transportation and other agencies, industry, consulting community and academia. Maryland State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) provided plans and updates on Maryland’s Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and LCTM program.

The panelists who subsequently discussed LCTM were drawn from MDOT SHA, industry, and academia. The presentation and panel discussion underscored the growing importance of ongoing collaboration, cooperation, and communication in ensuring that we institutionalize the development and use of LCTM in Maryland by incorporating Life Cycle Assessment and EPDs as standard practices. The development and use of LCTM has tremendous economic and environmental benefits. Implementation of LCTM program in MD through improved plant operation efficiency, innovative and cost-effective pavement material and design selection, and efficient construction and maintenance practices would enhance pavement performance, reduce environmental impacts of Maryland’s construction program, and provide significant socioeconomic benefits. This effort would align with Maryland’s goal set in its Climate Solutions Now Act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% over 2006 levels by 2031 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.

Goal

Develop innovative and cost-effective projects, on time and within budget, that use practical design principles, protect the environment and improve the overall quality of Maryland's transportation systems.

Objectives & Action Plans

Objective: Continually educate the industry in matters related to Project Development

Action Plan/Strategy:

• • Identify the need for updates of guidelines and practices 

  • Assist in the development / delivery of training materials

  • Follow up to ensure the training has produced the desired results.

Objective: Promote efficiency in Project Development by improving the delivery process 

Action Plan/Strategy:

• Identify areas of inefficiency

• Assist in the development and revision of processes and products

• Follow up to ensure the process and products have produced the desired results

Current Initiatives

• Apply "Lessons Learned" from previous projects

• Continually improve the alternative delivery process

• Promote environmental streamlining in planning and design

• Explore methods for accelerating construction of projects

• Mentor SBE / MBE firms

Alternative Delivery Work Group

Meeting Agenda & Minutes

Subcommittee Members