Overview

Sponsors

Reach Your Target Market at the Transportation Innovation Conference!

The annual MassDOT Transportation Innovation Conference provides a forum for innovative transportation systems, management ideas, and initiatives. The conference is an important opportunity for transportation practitioners to share knowledge, sponsor peer-to-peer learning, and collaborate on issues of mutual interest. 

Attendees will participate and learn about the exciting infrastructure investments being made by MassDOT and new innovative methods and technologies in transportation; meet and network with other transportation professionals!

The event is open to all transportation practitioners from federal, state, and local transportation agencies, Metropolitan Planning Organizations, transit agencies, academia, and private industry.

RESERVE YOUR BOOTH TODAY!

The annual MassDOT Transportation Innovation Conference attracts transportation professionals from across New England seeking the latest information on innovative technologies, designs and practices.

This event will be an invaluable opportunity for state, MPO/local, transit agencies, researchers, human service agency staff, advocates, planners, and private sector practitioners to share ideas, sponsor peer-to-peer learning, and collaborate on issues of mutual interest.

The conference runs from 7:30AM to 4:30PM on April 30 and May 1, 2024. 

SPONSOR/EXHIBITOR PACKET

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

GOLD LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

A GOLD Level Sponsor receives a booth space, skirted table, chair, and the following:
Three complimentary attendee registrations
Your logo will also be included on:
• Event website (including link to sponsor’s website)
• Email marketing
• Conference slide show that is played throughout the event in the main ballroom
• Company banner displayed in main ballroom 
• Session agenda signs outside each meeting room

Cost: $3,500.00 - (Until April 3); $4,500.00 - (After April 3)

SILVER LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

A SILVER Level Sponsor receives booth space, skirted table, chair, and the following:
Two complimentary attendee registration
Your logo will also be included on:
• Event website (including link to sponsor’s website)
• Email marketing
• Conference slide show that is played throughout the event in the main ballroom.

Cost: $2,000.00 - (Until April 3); $3,000.00 - (After April 3)

BRONZE LEVEL SPONSORSHIP

A BRONZE Level Sponsor receives booth space, skirted table, chair, and the following:
Your logo will also be included on:
• Event website (including link to sponsor’s website)
• Conference slide show played throughout the event in the main ballroom.

Cost: $1,250.00 - (Until April 3); $2,250.00 - (After April 3)

Exhibitor Opportunities

EXHIBITOR

Includes an exhibit booth. Each booth attendee must pre-register online for the conference.
Cost: $750.00 - (Until April 3); $1,750.00 - (After April 3)

NON-PROFIT/Government EXHIBITOR

Includes an exhibit booth. Each booth attendee must pre-register online for the conference.
• Non-Profit agencies interested in being a sponsor must pay regular sponsor fees.
Cost: $150.00

Online registration is now available. Click on the "Sponsor Fees" tab at the top of the page. 

Questions can be directed to Kathryn Donnelly at donnelly@umass.edu.

Booth choice will be given to Gold Level Sponsors first, then Silver, then Bronze, then Exhibitors in order of paid registrations.

BOOTH INCLUDES:

Table-top display area with 8-foot skirted table, one chair and one waste paper basket.
Additional chairs are available on request, based on the number of attendees from your organization.
Please indicate any special needs including electrical outlets. 

There are additional fees for any exhibit-specific audiovisual equipment requests (e.g., table-top or free-standing TV/Screen). Please contact the UMass Transportation Center at 413-545-2604, for specific equipment costs. 

Exhibitors can SET UP on April 29 - 2:00pm-5:00pm and on April 30 between 6:00am and 7:45am.
Dismantling of exhibits may not occur prior to 4:30 pm on May 1.
Exhibitors MUST enter through Door 4 on Major Taylor Blvd. prior to show hours.

Arrangements may be made for shipment and storage of exhibitor displays to The DCU Center prior to the conference. A handling charge will be assessed depending on the weight of the package(s).  Should you need to ship items to the DCU Center for this event, please address shipment to:

Guest Name (or the person who will be on site)
Your Company Name / MassDOT Transportation Innovation Conference
The DCU Center, 50 Foster St, Worcester, MA 01608

Please note - Once your registration and payment have been received, you will receive a confirmation from the UMass Transportation Center.   

After receiving this confirmation, we ask that you please visit www.MassDOTInnovation.com and complete registrations for all attendees from your organization. 

FIRST FLOOR EXHIBIT SPACE

Schedule

2024 Transportation Innovation Conference Schedule

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 • 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM 

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM - Registration/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, and Technology Innovations 

Experience It: “Empathy at the Intersection" Experiential Exhibit (Both Days)

Participate in different hands-on activities that invite you to view an intersection from a new perspective. You will have the opportunity to put on the Age Gain Now Empathy Suit (AGNES) (on 4/30 only) to experience limited mobility and vision impairment associated with aging as you try to cross the street. Apply your skills in the “Look Both Ways” VR driver simulation to test your reaction time in an urban environment. Gain perspective on high-vision and conventional truck cabs. Discover the difference in visibility of vulnerable road users offered from the driver's seat and learn about current research on vehicle design.

Exhibit Partners: US DOT Volpe Center, Olin College of Engineering, Fundación MAPFRE Insurance, MIT AgeLab 

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM - Networking, Breakfast and Opening Plenary

Master of Ceremonies: Pete Sutton, Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Coordinator, Massachusetts Department of Transportation 

Jonathan Gulliver, Highway Administrator, Massachusetts Department of Transportation

CONCURRENT SESSION 1: 9:15 AM - 10:30 AM

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM - Break/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, Technology Innovations

CONCURRENT SESSION 2: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

From the Boston Region MPO to RIDOT to the Lumber River Council of Governments (LRCOG) in North Carolina, mitigating the risk of climate change-induced damage to transportation infrastructure involves collaborating across state lines and regional boundaries.   Come and listen how each of these entities are incorporating innovative processes to strengthen the resilience criteria used to evaluate projects, create a more resilient regional transportation system, and address transportation infrastructures vulnerabilities in this changing world.

Moderator: Max Natanagara, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Skye Levin, VHB 
Ariel Patterson, Kleinfelder 
Judy Day, Boston Region MPO

Day Presentation, Patterson Presentation, Levin Presentation

Moderator: Patricia Leavenworth, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Joseph Sirignano, Benesch 
Jason Fuller, HDR 
Jonathan Ernst, GTR

Ernst Presentation, Fuller Presentation, Sirignano Presentation

The Strengths and Weaknesses of Concrete - Room E

Moderator: Jason Robertson, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Richard Mulcahy, MassDOT 
Jianqiang Wei, UMass Lowell 
Sergio Breña, UMass Amherst  
Joseph Fleury, City of Boston 
Mark Thompson, Jacobs 
Kay Wille, University of Connecticut 
Marisa Chrysochoou, University of Connecticut

Thompson-Fleury Presentation, Wei-Brena-Mulcahy Presentation, Wille-Chrysochoou Presentation

Walking and Biking Into the Future: MassDOT's Next Gen Bike & Pedestrian Facilities Vision Map - Junior Ballroom

Learn about an exciting new project to create a statewide pedestrian and bicycle facilities vision map for all applicable MassDOT roadways and pathways.  This project will help MassDOT achieve the performance goals in the Massachusetts Statewide Pedestrian Plan and Bicycle Plan.  It will assist MassDOT in identifying roads and pathways that are within the range of short walking and biking trips, including those with high comfort pedestrian and bike facilities and those where such facilities are lacking. This will support MassDOT’s goals of expanding the high comfort walking and biking networks for short trips statewide and addressing identified network gaps. 

Moderator: Pete Sutton, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Pete Sutton, MassDOT 
Pedro Hernandez, MassDOT 
Rich Plenge, VHB 
Kenia French, VHB 

Session Combined Presentation

Establishing Target Speed Guidance - Main Ballroom (Hybrid)

Design controls provide the framework through which the physical form, functionality and ultimate safety of transportation facilities is determined. Please join us for a review of upcoming changes to design controls in the latest chapter in the MassDOT Project Development and Design Guide. This session will provide an overview of the new chapter and focus on achievement of safer speeds, which starts with selection of appropriate target speeds. Come learn about the new guidance and participate in a discussion about how we will put this into practice to improve roadway safety. Hear about municipal speed management case studies from across Massachusetts.

Moderator: Jackie DeWolfe, MassDOT  
Presenters:  
Jackie DeWolfe, MassDOT 
Jim Danila, MassDOT 
Francisco Lovera, MassDOT 
Chris Falcos, MassDOT

Session Combined Presentation

LUNCHEON-KEYNOTE AND MUNICIPAL AWARDS: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM

Monica Tibbits-Nutt, Secretary and CEO, Massachusetts Department of Transportation  

Victoria Sheehan, Executive Director, Transportation Research Board  

Introduction: Meredith Slesinger, Rail and Transit Administrator, Massachusetts Department of Transportation

Sheehan Presentation, Awards Presentation

CONCURRENT SESSION 3: 2:00PM - 3:00PM

The Hands-On Learning Lab (HOLL) is a dedicated space to take free lessons on a variety of GIS and ArcGIS topics. Each self-paced lesson takes about 1 hour to complete and includes conceptual information and step-by-step software exercises. Laptops and ArcGIS software needed to complete each lesson are provided. Instructors are available to assist with lesson selection and answer any questions you may have.  The Learning Lab will be open throughout the conference.

Moderator: Matthew Weidele, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Andrew Burkholder, VHB 
Shanta Keller, VHB 
Douglas Whittaker, Michael Baker International 

Burkholder-Keller Presentation

Apply It:  The Future of Transportation Advances Today! (continues through session 4) - Junior Ballroom

This workshop serves as an opportunity for us to reimagine planning, design, policies, and decision-making processes and to maximize our strengths to move boldly in that direction. Specifically, this workshop will help you explore the AASHTO vision for community/human-centered transportation, learn about and practice leader behaviors that you can employ to catalyze progress toward that vision, and plan to hit the ground running when you return to your organization. A budgeting simulation and details on Connecticut DOT’s work with municipalities will be featured! Results of this workshop will inform the “Lead It!” panel held on Wednesday (5/1) and build upon the three vulnerable road user experience simulations offered in the Exhibit Hall on Tuesday (4/30) and Wednesday (5/1). 

Moderator: Julie Lorenz 
Presenters:  
Angie Hinzey, MITRE 
Katherine Hedberg-Klose, Connecticut DOT 
Ashley Anglin, United Way of Northern New Jersey

Anglin Presentation, Hedberg-Klose Presentation, Hinzey Presentation, Lorenz Presentation

Poster Session - First Floor Showcase Corner

Poster Session Moderator:  Hao Yin, MassDOT 

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM - Break/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, Vendor Showcase, Technology Innovations, and Research Posters

CONCURRENT SESSION 4: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM

GIS Hands-On Learning Lab  - Room A (ALL DAY)

The Hands-On Learning Lab (HOLL) is a dedicated space to take free lessons on a variety of GIS and ArcGIS topics. Each self-paced lesson takes about 1 hour to complete and includes conceptual information and step-by-step software exercises. Laptops and ArcGIS software needed to complete each lesson are provided. Instructors are available to assist with lesson selection and answer any questions you may have.  The Learning Lab will be open throughout the conference.

Enhancing Bridge Project Outcomes: Scoping Strategies and Best Practices - Room B

Dive into the critical role of scoping meetings in bridge project development, detailing the process, purpose, and optimization of pre-25% scoping sessions mandated by MassDOT since March 2021. The session will cover the standardized approach to these meetings, including the adoption of a new form and the shift to a virtual format. Learn from the Bridge Program's experiences in conducting over 200 scoping sessions, focusing on the preparation, execution, and follow-up stages. Additionally, explore the designer's perspective on ensuring effective scoping meetings, including best practices for preparation and the key responsibilities from project initiation to the drafting of the scoping checklist. This session aims to provide attendees with actionable insights on improving project planning and execution through effective scoping meetings, highlighting the benefits of virtual settings, and detailing the crucial components of the scoping checklist to avoid common errors.  

Moderator: Rob Rottenbucher, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Rob Rottenbucher, MassDOT 
Nicholas Vo, MassDOT 
Thomas Donald, VHB

Donald Presentation, Rottenbucher-Vo Presentation

Innovative Intersections: The Future of Design - Rooms C & D

Moderator: Francisco Lovera, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Smith Siromaskul, HDR 
Will Hume, HDR 
Richard Coakley, Jacobs 
Luciano Rabito, Jacobs

Siromaskul Presentation, Rabito-Coakley Presentation

DECIDE® Exercise Requirements Session - Room E

This session demonstrates the DECIDE® (Distributed Environment for Critical Infrastructure Decision-making Exercises) application of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (DHS) to the New England State DOT structure in order to design and conduct transportation related exercises. Through a presentation of examples and requirements, attendees will have a clear understanding of the process to plan and conduct DECIDE® exercises that simulate cyber threats for government transportation organizations and their partners and to stress and test incident response plans, resulting in after-action reports to improve strategic communication, compliance, risk, and overall resilience in transportation safety.

Moderator: Mike Knodler,UMass Transportation Center
Presenter:  
Joseph Minicucci,  Norwich University Applied Research Institutes (NUARI)

Minicucci Presentation

Technological Innovations in Infrastructure Project Management and Municipal Funding - Main Ballroom (Hybrid)

Explore cutting-edge tools transforming MassDOT's infrastructure project management and municipal funding processes. Learn how GIS technologies like MapIT, eSTIP, and the TIP Scoring Tool streamline project coordination and enhance data integration. Discover MassDOT Grants Central, a one-stop platform simplifying the grants process for municipalities, promoting efficiency and strategic project alignment. This session highlights technological innovations fostering improved project lifecycle management and funding acquisition.

Moderator: Cassandra Gascon, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Carl Hughes, MassDOT 
Kristen Pennucci,MassDOT 
Mike Bolduc, MassDOT 

Bolduc-Hughes Presentation, Pennucci Presentation

UMTC Reception at the Transportation Innovation Conference: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Free Networking Reception with Complimentary Appetizers & Cash Bar For All Registered Attendees

Wednesday, May 1, 2024 • 7:30 AM - 3:15 PM  

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM - Registration/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, and Technology Innovations  

Experience It: “Empathy at the Intersection" Experiential Exhibit (Both Days)

Participate in different hands-on activities that invite you to view an intersection from a new perspective. You will have the opportunity to put on the Age Gain Now Empathy Suit (AGNES) (on 4/30 only) to experience limited mobility and vision impairment associated with aging as you try to cross the street. Apply your skills in the “Look Both Ways” VR driver simulation to test your reaction time in an urban environment. Gain perspective on high-vision and conventional truck cabs. Discover the difference in visibility of vulnerable road users offered from the driver's seat and learn about current research on vehicle design.

Exhibit Partners: US DOT Volpe Center, Olin College of Engineering, Fundación MAPFRE Insurance, MIT AgeLab 

8:00 AM - 9:15 AM - Networking, Breakfast and Opening Plenary

Master of Ceremonies: Pete Sutton, Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Coordinator, Massachusetts Department of Transportation 

Jonathan Gulliver, Highway Administrator, Massachusetts Department of Transportation

CONCURRENT SESSION 5: 9:15 AM - 10:30 AM

The Hands-On Learning Lab (HOLL) is a dedicated space to take free lessons on a variety of GIS and ArcGIS topics. Each self-paced lesson takes about 1 hour to complete and includes conceptual information and step-by-step software exercises. Laptops and ArcGIS software needed to complete each lesson are provided. Instructors are available to assist with lesson selection and answer any questions you may have.  The Learning Lab will be open throughout the conference.

As more automakers respond to the increasing demand for EVs, come listen to how Massachusetts is addressing the need for EV charging infrastructure.  The panel will outline challenges and mitigation techniques being used in planning for EV charging in the state.   More specifically, discussion will focus on MassDOT Aeronautics’ experience with ground vehicles, aircraft, clean energy and independent power. 

Moderator: Andy Paul, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Annie Weathers, MIT Lincoln Laboratory  
Owen Silbaugh, MassDOT 
Andy Paul, MassDOT 
Chris Aiello, MassDOT 

Aiello Presentation, Weathers Presentation, Silbaugh Presentation

Are you thinking about Design-Build (DB) methodology?  Join in on the discussion as the panel does a deep dive into the application of DB and more specifically the benefits of Progressive Design-Build (PDB) as an alternative delivery method.  What are the efficiencies and benefits to PBD and when, who and where should it be employed.

Moderator: Murthy Kolla, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Robert Penfield, VHB 
Mark Colgan, VHB 
Christine Mizioch, AI Engineers 
Richard Thomas, Design Build Institute of America 
Ken Beehler, WSP Advisory Services

Session Combined Presentation

The Geospatial Technology group at MassDOT created a forum for GIS users called SWAG (Spatial Website Analysis Group) to share applications, analyses and ideas that use GIS technology, either on our GeoDOT platform or in a standalone space that could be integrated with our platform. Over the last few years, MassDOT has elevated this forum to large-scale collaborative venues, such as the annual Innovation Conference, to allow the greater GIS community to share how they are innovating and building new and exciting GIS tools. There will also be trivia questions with prizes and an open forum brain teaser session.

Moderator: Jose Simo, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Corey O’Connor, MassDOT 
Amy E. Getchell, MassDOT 
Patricia Cahill, MassDOT 
Carl Hughes, MassDOT 
Charles Major, MassDOT,
Martha Koch, MBTA

Getchell-O'Connor Presentation, Koch Presentation, Major Presentation, Cahill Presentation

Explore the transformative impact of AI and ML across the transportation sector. From preparing for disruptive technologies and leveraging advanced analytics for project delivery, to revolutionizing traffic management and shaping the future of mobility and employment within smart cities, this panel addresses the critical intersections of innovation, infrastructure, and the workforce. Through discussions on generative scheduling, the implications of GenAI on mobility, and the potential for AI to reshape job landscapes, attendees will gain comprehensive insights into the evolving dynamics of transportation in the age of digital transformation. 

Moderator: Jesse Newberry, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
John Kaliski, Cambridge Systematics  
Bryan Pounds, McKinsey & Company 
Naveen Juvva, Deloitte 
Patt Talvanna, Boston Consulting Group 
Ryan McCreedy, Slalom

Pounds Presentation, Kaliski Presentation, McCreedy Presentation, Juvva Presentation, Talvanna Presentation

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM - Break/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, Technology Innovations

CONCURRENT SESSION 6: 11:00 AM - 12:15 PM

GIS Hands-On Learning Lab  - Room A (ALL DAY)

The Hands-On Learning Lab (HOLL) is a dedicated space to take free lessons on a variety of GIS and ArcGIS topics. Each self-paced lesson takes about 1 hour to complete and includes conceptual information and step-by-step software exercises. Laptops and ArcGIS software needed to complete each lesson are provided. Instructors are available to assist with lesson selection and answer any questions you may have.  The Learning Lab will be open throughout the conference.

Transforming Urban Corridors by Improving Safety and Access for All Users - Room B

Identifying transportation conflicts, improving equitable access, and securing buy-in from stakeholders and communities continues to be a priority for MassDOT.   Whether it's a project in a notable seaside destination reimagining downtown transportation components or the City of Pittsburgh’s bridging the gap to re-create park access or restoring a historic masonry bridge connecting Needham & Newton to accommodate today's transportation demands; innovative thinking and designs along with support from community stakeholders are essential.  Find out what steps have been taken to address these critical transportation topics.

Moderator: Jonathan Church, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Nicholas Burdette, HDR 
Jason Schrieber, Stantec 
Elizabeth Jenkins, Town of Barnstable 
Mike McCall, Stantec 
Carly Soderholm, Stantec

McCall-Soderholm Presentation, Schrieber-Jenkins Presentation

Equity & Transportation: Tackling Challenges with the Help of Data - Rooms C & D

Moderator: Ethan Britland, MassDOT  
Presenters:  
Liz Williams, MassDOT 
Chris Falcos, MassDOT 
Corey O’Connor, MassDOT 
Gary Baker, US DOT, Volpe Center 
Alison Link, US DOT, Volpe Center 

Falcos-O'Connor Presentation, Baker Presentation, Williams Presentation

Revolutionizing Traffic Safety and Efficiency: The Role of Technology and Data - Room E

Dive into the transformative power of technology and data analytics to enhance traffic safety. Our speakers will explore a range of field applications, from the use of Machine Learning and GIS in developing a High-Injury Network (HIN) model to the integration of data-driven safety analysis (DDSA) in traffic impact studies, highlighting a significant shift towards more predictive and preventative approaches in traffic management. Additionally, the potential of connected vehicle (CV) data to revolutionize transportation planning and decision-making will be showcased, illustrating how vehicle-specific performance metrics can offer unprecedented insights into system operations and safety. Join us to discover how these advancements are setting new standards in traffic safety and efficiency, paving the way for future innovations in the field.

Moderator: Charlotte Mays, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
David Petrucci, FHWA 
Ben Revette, Dewberry 
Tito Sanchez, BETA Group Inc. 
Austin Pszenny, Beta Group Inc. 
Jonah Williams, Merrimack Valley Planning Commission 

Revette-Pennetti Presentation

Discovering the Applications of UAS to Assess Transportation Infrastructure - Junior Ballroom

The use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) has become more and more beneficial in everyday activities and using them for assessing the condition of transportation infrastructure is no different.  Drones are useful for conducting safe, efficient post-storm inspections for municipalities and DOTs.  They are also beneficial for construction projects and asset management.  For example, the MassDOT Aeronautics’ Drone Operations Program (DOP) is partnering with MassDOT Highway to implement and adopt the use of innovative UAS applications in data collection, storage, and dissemination.  Attend this session to learn more.  

Moderator: Christopher E. Bailey, MassDOT
Presenters:  
John Diaz, GPI 
David Price, GPI 
Richard O’Hearn, MassDOT 
Peter Kurt, MassDOT 
Daryl Amaral, MassDOT 

Diaz-Price Presentation, O'Hearn-Kurt-Amaral Presentation

Bike, Walk, Ride...Accommodating the Vulnerable Road Users in Everyday Life - Main Ballroom (Hybrid)

Getting around our cities and towns by bicycle and/or public transit can be challenging.  From pedestrian fatalities close to bus stops to cyclists not being able to access safe routes to reach supermarkets, MassDOT has researched ways to improve safety for vulnerable road users. These presentations will discuss ways to incorporate certain types of floating bus stops and remove obstacles to safe cycling within 500 ft of supermarket entrances with the result of increasing safety and accessibility.

Moderator: Anil Gurcan, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Kayla Sousa, MassDOT 
Stacey Schwartz, MassDOT 
Peter Furth, Northeastern University 
Stephanie Upson, MassDOT 
Yu-Min (Thomas) Yang, UMass Amherst 
Eleni Christofa, UMass Amherst  

Furth-Upson Presentation, Sousa Presentation, Yang-Christofa Presentation

LUNCHEON KEYNOTE-WORKING SESSION: 12:15 PM - 1:45 PM

Lead It: Building the Community Centered DOT

Learn how state DOT leaders are taking action to develop more community centered transportation organizations.  We will examine priorities of national DOT leaders, how current operations and planning issues are being addressed through empathetic leadership, and how agile management techniques can be leveraged to deliver customer-focused outcomes.  This synthesis session combines the expo simulations and the challenges identified in our empathetic leadership workshop so that you’re prepared to lead transformation in your organization.

Moderator: Meghan Haggerty, Chief Operating Officer, Massachusetts Department of Transportation 

Garrett T. Eucalitto, Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Transportation
Hayes Morrison, Undersecretary/Acting Chief of Staff, Massachusetts Department of Transportation 
Kerri Woehler, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Washington Department of Transportation 
Nate Higgins, Director, Slalom

Eucalitto Presentation, Higgins Presentation, Billboard Contest Winners

1:45 PM – 2:00 PM - Break/First Floor Exhibit Hall - Sponsors/Exhibitors, Equipment, Demos, Vendor Showcase, Technology Innovations

CONCURRENT SESSION 7: 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM

GIS Hands-On Learning Lab  - Room A (ALL DAY)

The Hands-On Learning Lab (HOLL) is a dedicated space to take free lessons on a variety of GIS and ArcGIS topics. Each self-paced lesson takes about 1 hour to complete and includes conceptual information and step-by-step software exercises. Laptops and ArcGIS software needed to complete each lesson are provided. Instructors are available to assist with lesson selection and answer any questions you may have.  The Learning Lab will be open throughout the conference.

Regional Transit Authorities-Meeting the Needs of Their Customers - Room B

With an increase in funding from the most recent state budget, regional transit authorities (RTAs) across the Commonwealth are rolling out new initiatives in all aspects of their operations – new service, expanded night and weekend operating hours, rider experience improvements, and enhanced employee services. Hear from the RTAs about what this new state funding has already made possible, and what other programs and projects are coming online soon.

Moderator: Nicholas Downing, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Mike Lambert, Brockton Area Transit 
Dave Bradley, Lowell Regional Transit Authority 
Joshua Rickman, Worcester Regional Transit Authority
George Anastas, Lowell Regional Transit Authority

Anastas Presentation, Lambert Presentation, Rickman Presentation

Using Online Geospatial Data Tools to Improve Project Decision-Making and Project Delivery - Rooms C & D

Moderator: Courtney Quirmbach, MassDOT
Presenters:  
Jose Simo, MassDOT 
Charles Major, MassDOT 
Billy Woolford, MassDOT

Woolford Presentation, Major Presentation

Bridging the Gap: Building Resilient & Innovative Structures for People and Wildlife - Room E

Improvements to transportation infrastructure incorporate today's innovative technology and cross-disciplinary solutions to create a more resilient transportation system.  Critical bridges connecting Cape Cod to the mainland and other bridges used to connect fish passage downstream to upstream (and vice versa) are being replaced to address deficiencies, improve access for all and solicit input from many stakeholders.  Come join the discussion on creative ways being used to move the Commonwealth's transportation infrastructure forward.

Moderator: David Paulson, MassDOT
Presenters:  
Donald Hendon, HDR  
Tyler Greco, Pare Corporation 
Eric Silva, Pare Corporation 
Nicole Buck, McFarland Johnson

Greco-Silva Presentation, Hendon Presentation, Buck Presentation

Addressing Severe Crash Locations and Speeding: A Comprehensive Assessment Using Innovative Technology - Junior Ballroom

What roadway vulnerabilities are being shared with drivers to identify and prioritize systemic improvements to specific severe crash locations and speeding?  Come and listen to how these specific crash locations were identified via MassDOT's safety analysis.  Also, learn how the Safe Waves Signal Analysis Tool detects speeding opportunities.

Moderator: Jim Danila, MassDOT 
Presenters:  
Md Shakir Mahmud, VHB 
Peter Furth, Northeastern University 
Milad Tahmasebi, Northeastern University

Mahmud-Gooch-Gross-Polin Presentation, Furth-Tahmasebi Presentation

3:15 PM Conference Adjourns

Venue

The DCU Center

The Convention Center has 100,310 square feet of exhibit space, 23,636 square feet in 11 meeting rooms, and a 12,144 square foot ballroom, (the largest in Central Massachusetts). The DCU Center is designed and sized specifically for the professional fulfillment, comfort and budget of small to large-sized conventions, meetings, social events and trade shows.

• 58,960 square feet of contiguous Exhibition Space

• 2 Ballrooms

• 11 Meeting Rooms (inclusive of Ballrooms)

• 2 Lounges

• Exquisite Pre-function Space

• Superb In-house Catering

• Separate Entrances for all Exhibit Halls

• Utility Floor Boxes located on 30-ft. centers

• Sophisticated Communication and Utility Services

• Electric: 120, 208 and 480 volt

• Water In and Out

• Compressed Air

• Voice, Video, CATV, Telephone and Data Communication

• Satellite Down-Link Capabilities

• Adjustable Lighting Levels

• 3 Access Doors that provide direct entry for large semis and other equipment onto Exhibit Hall floor

• Floor Load: Exhibition Hall - 350 pounds per square feet
Ballrooms & Meeting Rooms - 100 pounds per square feet

• Ceiling heights:
Exhibit Hall-30'
Ballroom-19'
Jr. Ballroom-14'8"

• Meeting Rooms-13'6", Showcase Corner-36'

• Dock Height: 4' with adjustable dock levelers

• Handicap Accessible

Area Hotels

Hilton Garden Inn
35 Major Taylor Blvd, Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (508) 753-5700

Courtyard Worcester
72 Grove St, Worcester, MA 01605
Phone: (508) 363-0300

Holiday Inn Express
110 Summer St, Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (508) 757-0400

AC Hotel by Marriott Worcester
125 Front St, Worcester, MA 01608
Phone: (774) 420-7555

Parking

Speakers

Monica G. Tibbits-Nutt

Monica G. Tibbits-Nutt, is the Secretary and CEO of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). 

Secretary Tibbits-Nutt is responsible for four divisions of MassDOT: Highway, Rail and Transit, Registry of Motor Vehicles and Aeronautics. As Secretary, she also serves on the Massport and MBTA Board of Directors.

Prior to her appointment, Ms. Tibbits-Nutt served as Undersecretary of MassDOT where, among other responsibilities, she led the effort to stand up the Office of Transportation and Climate Planning and Policy. She also served on the MassDOT Board of Directors and as the Vice-Chair of the Fiscal Management and Control Board (FMCB) that oversaw the MBTA. 

Ms. Tibbits-Nutt was also the Executive Director of the 128 Business Council, a transportation management association and regional service provider that builds privately funded, cooperative public transportation routes throughout the Route 128 West Corridor.

Areas of specialty include regional and transportation planning, urban design, and transit equity. In both her work and research, she is particularly interested in capitalizing upon every opportunity to better educate transportation stakeholders and the public about all aspects of the planning process. As part of this focus on education, she serves as the Vice President of the non-profit Youth Engagement Planning (YEP!), which brings urban planning and community advocacy into K-12 environments.

Ms. Tibbits-Nutt is an active member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and a LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design & Construction with the U.S. Green Building Council. 

Victoria Sheehan

Victoria Sheehan is the executive director of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The Transportation Research Board (TRB) provides leadership in transportation improvements and innovation through trusted, timely, impartial, and evidence-based information exchange, research, and advice regarding all modes of transportation. 

Sheehan came to the National Academies from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (DOT), where she was commissioner for seven years. Responsible for an operating budget of over $650 million, she oversaw a staff of more than 1,600 employees representing diverse areas such as aeronautics, rail, transit, construction, operations, finance, and administration. Her team led the development of New Hampshire’s Ten-Year Transportation Plan, and Sheehan worked directly with the governor, general court, and executive council to ensure it would address the state’s growing needs.

Before joining the New Hampshire DOT, Sheehan spent 10 years at the Massachusetts DOT leading strategic planning and highway performance, managing the bridge consulting program, and overseeing an eight-year, $3 billion Accelerated Bridge Program. Sheehan served as president of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) for 2020-2021 and has been an active board member in a range of other professional organizations. She holds a master’s degree in structural engineering and architecture from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

Jonathan Gulliver

Jonathan was appointed Massachusetts State Highway Administrator at MassDOT in 2017.  He is responsible for the oversight of the day-to-day operations of the nearly 2,800 men and women dedicated to the safe operation, construction, maintenance of the Commonwealth's network of roads, bridges, and tunnels.  With a focus on innovation and safety, Jonathan had led a significant restructuring and modernization of the Highway Division and is responsible for the delivery of the $2B+ annual capital program.
 
Prior to his appointment as Highway Administrator, Jonathan led MassDOT’s Worcester office where he was responsible for the state highway and bridge system of Central Massachusetts.  Jonathan started his career in state service as a construction inspector and has over two decades of experience managing and delivering complex state and municipal projects and holds a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute. 

Meredith Slesinger

Meredith joined MassDOT in August 2020 and serves as the Rail and Transit Administrator. The Rail & Transit Division oversees the Commonwealth’s passenger and freight rail programs and the 15 Regional Transit Authorities which provide fixed route and demand response bus service outside Greater Boston. Under her leadership, the Rail & Transit Division has received $110 million in federal grants to enhance passenger rail service connections between western and eastern Massachusetts.
 
Previously, she was the senior director of strategic planning at Amtrak where she led special projects such as developing Amtrak’s five-year business plans and staffing the Board of Directors. As the director of policy and outreach at the Northeast Corridor Commission, Meredith authored the Commission’s cost sharing policy, which established the first dedicated capital funding for Northeast Corridor infrastructure and a policy framework for coordinated regional planning among Amtrak and the Northeast states and commuter railroads. 
 
She graduated from New York University.

Pete Sutton

Pete Sutton is the bicycle and pedestrian program coordinator for MassDOT, where he manages updates to statewide plans, co-chairs the MA Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board, and chairs MassDOT’s Moving Together conference. He is also member of the MassTrails Team and volunteers with local biking and walking advocacy groups. Pete has cycled or walked nearly every greenway and rail trail statewide from Provincetown to Williamstown.

Meghan Haggerty

Meghan Haggerty is the Chief Operating Officer at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.  As Chief Operating Officer, Meghan is responsible for strategic planning and implementation.  In this role, Meghan has championed the MassDOT Project Management Office which supports  MassDOT’s operating divisions to implement performance improvement projects.  Meghan formerly worked in the MassDOT Highway Division as the Chief Administrative Officer and as the Chief of Staff.  Meghan’s accomplishments include leading workforce transformation efforts post Covid, implementing a state workforce vaccine mandate, successfully meeting hiring goals to support the BIL, and reducing durations between project advertisement and notice to proceed.   Prior to working at MassDOT, Meghan was the Director of Operations for the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Economic Development.  She was also the Director of Policy at the Massachusetts Port Authority.  She has her AB in Social Studies from Harvard College and a Master’s in Public Policy and Urban Planning from the Harvard Kennedy School.

Kerri Woehler

Kerri Woehler is Deputy Assistant Secretary for Multimodal Development and Delivery at the Washington State Department of Transportation. Responsible for leading implementation of policy and direction that ensures all modes of transportation are considered and integrated within the planning, programming, development and delivery of transportation systems and projects, Kerri oversees multiple divisions including Development, Active Transportation, Transportation Operations, and Transportation Safety. Kerri’s prior roles include work in multimodal planning, rail, aviation, and a Metropolitan Planning Organization. She graduated from Western Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science, and earned a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from Portland State University.

Nate Higgins

Nate Higgins has 17-plus years of experience delivering solutions that blend data, analytics, and strategy. He is a Director within Slalom's public sector practice, helping to transform agencies ranging from social justice, higher ed, and transportation by integrating modern technologies - often using agile delivery practices. He has a background in transportation, including traffic engineering, transportation performance management, asset management, strategic planning, and scenario planning. He is passionate about bringing the best tech and practices to transportation.

Hayes Morrison

Hayes Morrison is the Undersecretary & Acting Chief of Staff at MassDOT. In addition to leadership of eight departments, she has guided agency policy toward achieving climate and resiliency goals.  A proven leader with more than two decades of experience in transportation planning & strategy, her work includes roles as a strategist and adviser to Chief Elected & Chief Executive Officials in both local and state government. She is highly qualified in transportation policy development and strategy, land use, environmental planning & real estate development.
 
Her career in public service also includes prior roles at the Massachusetts Port Authority (Deputy Director, Strategic & Business Planning), the City of Somerville (Director of Transportation, Infrastructure, Parks, & Open Space), and the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization, Transportation Finance Manager.

Hayes earned her B.S. at Auburn University and her Master’s Degree in City & Regional Planning at Clemson University. 

Garrett T. Eucalitto

Garrett T. Eucalitto was nominated by Governor Ned Lamont and confirmed by the legislature as Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) in January 2023. He is the Vice President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and President of the Northeast Association of State Transportation Officials (NASTO). Prior to becoming Commissioner, Eucalitto served as Deputy Commissioner of CTDOT from 2020 until 2023. Before joining CTDOT, he worked as Transportation Program Director for the National Governors Association (NGA), Undersecretary at the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management, and began his career as a Legislative Assistant on Capitol Hill. Commissioner Eucalitto is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and Boston University. 

Attendees