Ten signature transportation projects that reflect the best in management and innovation by state departments of transportation were named Aug. 12 as finalists for the prestigious America's Transportation Award. Spectacular bridges, toll and access roads, innovative interchanges and interstates will now compete for the Grand National Prize—selected by a panel of community, business and transportation leaders—and the People's Choice Award, which will be decided by popular online vote.
"These awards highlight innovation, technology and transportation solutions that improve safety, relieve congestion, improve access to jobs or schools, and enhance the quality of life in America today," said Missouri Secretary of Transportation Pete K. Rahn, president of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
The competition is cosponsored by AAA, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and AASHTO to bring public attention to transportation projects around the country that make a positive difference to people, businesses and communities.
Online voting for the People's Choice Award began Aug. 12 and will continue to October 10.
The ten finalists are:
California: The MacArthur Maze, Oakland
Florida: Open Road Tolling, Miami-Dade County
Kansas: I-35 Interchange, Lenexa/Overland Park
Maryland/Virginia/District of Columbia: Woodrow Wilson Bridge
Minnesota: TH36 N St. Paul Reconstruction, Saint Paul
Mississippi: Saint Louis Bay Bridge, Bay Saint Louis
Pennsylvania: Route 830 Airport Access, Jefferson County
Rhode Island: Iway Bridge Float Project, Providence
Utah: 4500 South Bridge Replacement, Salt Lake City
Washington: Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Tacoma
"The business community depends on a safe, efficient and reliable transportation system to provide Americans with the goods and services they use every day," said Janet Kavinoky, director of transportation and infrastructure at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. "The U.S Chamber is pleased to co-sponsor America's Transportation Awards, which honors exemplary transportation projects that stimulate interstate and international commerce and thereby enhance our quality of life."
"Americans cherish their freedom of mobility, and a safe, efficient transportation system makes that mobility possible," said Kathleen F. Marvaso, AAA vice president of Public Affairs. "This award program showcases how quality transportation projects can make a positive contribution to meeting the mobility and safety needs of motorists."
Forty-one projects were entered into the America's Transportation Awards competition with 23 chosen as regional winners; an expert judging panel has now narrowed the field to 10 finalists. The Grand National Prize-winning state will receive funds to support a graduate-level educational grant in the transportation field. The People's Choice Award will fund a community service project selected by the winning state department of transportation. Awards will be presented at the AASHTO Annual Meeting in Hartford, Conn., Oct. 19.
For complete information on each of the finalists and the voting ballot, go to America's Transportation Award.
