The Central Hub Summer 2018

VDOT’S EASY RIDERS

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS

Summer 2018, Vol. 02 No. 01

INSIDE Unity Day Central Office Makeover Wakanda Driver Are You?

NATIONAL WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK

National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), observed during the second week of April, is one way VDOT brings attention to the dangers of having an “office” on the highway.

Work zone crashes increased by 10 percent in 2017, said Assistant State Traffic Engineer Mark Cole. The number of injuries and fatalities also increased. One of the most disturbing trends is the increasing number of crashes resulting from distracted driving, Mark noted. Twenty-five percent of all crashes were attributed to distracted driving, as were 50 percent of the fatalities.

April 11 was “Go Orange Day,” when VDOTers and the public were encouraged to wear orange to increase awareness. Deborah Sawyer from Performance and Strategic Planning, and Sandy Simpson from Business

“We are concerned about the increasing numbers of distracted driving crashes in our work zones,” Mark said. “We must all do everything we can to raise

Reform and Special Projects, shown above, add something new to their orange attire each year. This time, they included bows on their shoes.

More photos from Go Orange Day can be found on VDOT’s Flickr page.

awareness of this issue, including reminding ourselves, our friends and our families to stay distraction-free while driving, especially in work zones. Our road

WORK ZONE STATS

workers deserve to go home safely to their families.”

Though it takes time to receive comprehensive work

Crashes

Injuries

Fatalities

zone crash reports from the Virginia Department of

2017

2,666

1,329

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Motor Vehicles, at least three serious crashes have

2016

2,427

1,179

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already occurred in 2018. One of those resulted in

2015

2,622

1,417

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the death of a VDOT contract worker; the others caused serious injury to a VDOT employee and another contract worker. All three of those crashes were caused by distracted drivers.

The above numbers equate to the following increases since 2016: 3.5% increase in work zone crashes 6.1% increase in work zone injuries 20% increase in work zone fatalities

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“We cannot just talk about safety.

Our work is dangerous, and safety must always be Job One.�

-Stephen C. Brich, P.E. Commissioner

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Members of VDOT’s Central Office video team interviewed work zone

If anything pulls your attention from the road, you’re driving

crash survivors who recounted their

distracted. That could include talking on the phone – even

experiences. Additionally, they talked

hands-free – or speaking with someone in the passenger seat,

with crew members’ children who

working with the radio or fiddling with the navigation system.

advocated for safety in work zones to make sure their parents make it home

Typically when we think of distracted driving, cell phones come

each day. The result was a series of

to mind, and texting is one of the most alarming distractions.

compelling videos that were shared on

Did you know that sending a simple text can take your eyes off

VDOT’s social media and web channels.

the road for five seconds? It may not sound like much, but at

These first-person accounts and heartfelt

55 mph, that’s like traveling the length of a football field with

appeals put faces on the issue of work

your eyes closed.

zone safety. It’s just one way VDOT works to increase awareness.

At any given time during the day, it’s estimated that approximately 481,000 drivers across the country are using cell phones while driving. In Virginia, it is against the law for drivers under 18 years old to use cell phones or any other personal communication device while driving; texting is against the law for all drivers.

Kendall’s daddy works in Richmond District, and she was happy to tell everyone what they could do to help make sure he makes it home each day.

Jimmie Harris recounted a Hampton Roads District work zone crash that he was involved in earlier this year, and shared video from the scene.

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DE-CLUTTER, DE-STRESS During Records Management Month in April, there was a focus on reducing paper and electronic records – in accordance with established records retention schedules and

Quick and easy tips to reduce clutter at work: •

the things you use regularly within reach. Put everything

guidelines, of course. Bins were placed around the complex

else away – in drawers, in files or in the trash.

to collect unneeded papers, and on April 26, the shred truck was on hand to dispose of approximately 30,000 pounds of

Identify the items on your desk that are necessary. Keep

•

Don’t let papers pile up – dispose of them when they’re

discarded documents and papers. Additionally, the

no longer needed. Make it a point to clear your desk at

importance of discarding electronic records was reiterated

the end of each day.

during the annual Records Management Day training for records coordinators in Charlottesville.

There was also time set aside for some spring cleaning and decluttering. Were you able to improve your workspace during that time? If not, it’s never too late to start. Reducing clutter and maintaining a clean work area creates a more productive and comfortable environment for you and your co-workers.

•

Delete extraneous emails. Inboxes can get out of hand quickly, and it can become overwhelming. Set aside a few minutes each day to delete, delete, delete.

Do you still have questions about what can be tossed out?

See the Spring Cleanup page on InsideVDOT for good housekeeping guidelines.

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Hundreds gathered at the Altria Theater on April 24 for the second annual Central Office Unity Day. The festivities opened with the presentation of colors by the Benedictine College Preparatory Drill Team and jazz saxophonist James “Saxsmo” Gates performing the national anthem.

Sportscaster and coach Derrick Pearson delivered the keynote address, and Human Resources Technical Training Manager Patrick Patrong performed magic tricks on stage while motivating attendees. The daylong event also included remarks from Deputy Secretary of Transportation Quintin Elliott, Commissioner Stephen Brich and Chief Deputy Commissioner Rob Cary, a car show and exhibits showcasing employees’ hobbies, interests and heritages. A Family Feud-style game show featured contestants, including Secretary of Transportation Shannon Valentine, who answered questions based on surveys of Central Office employees.

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The Structure and Bridge Division created this 3D model for a public meeting regarding replacement of the Chatham Bridge, which carries Route 3 over the Rappahannock River in VDOT’s Fredericksburg District. The visual representation helped stakeholders better understand how the proposed replacement project would take shape.

When used in construction projects, 3D modeling allows for

that is connected to construction equipment like bulldozers,

faster and more accurate planning and construction. It has

excavators and paving machines. That means the dirt is moved

been in use in the industry for some time, and is starting to

correctly the first time, Chris noted. Also, when there’s an

take shape at VDOT.

update, the software will automatically incorporate that into the construction plan and alter the remaining plan as needed.

As Assistant State Location and Design Engineer Chris

It’s like a technological domino effect.

Swanson can tell you, there are many benefits that go along with 3D modeling. For one thing, a design can be

“When the model is connected, if one change is made the

tested as it is being developed. Simulations can be run

entire plan recreates itself,” he said. This also leads to savings

ahead of time to detect design flaws before construction

of time and dollars by reducing human error and the need for

even begins, which can save time and money.

change orders. According to the Federal Highway Administration, the combination of 3D modeling and GPS machine control

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Once construction starts, data from the 3D models can be

can increase productivity by up to 50 percent and cut survey

transferred to a global positioning system (GPS) machine

costs by up to 75 percent.

All of this also leads to a safer work environment.

Decreasing the need for some manual tasks such as staking, stringing lines, drawing fill lines and setting grade stakes means fewer onsite workers and increased safety, Chris said.

While it’s not yet in use to that degree at VDOT, the benefits and possible drawbacks are being studied to determine how it may be used in the future.

Roadway Design Engineer Wesley Floor develops a 3D model.

For now, one of the most common ways 3D modeling is being used at VDOT is to create visual representations of projects. Something that may be confusing to drivers, such as diverging diamond interchanges, can be virtually driven through onscreen with the help of 3D modeling. These video demonstrations are being used more and more frequently at Citizen Information Meetings as an educational tool to help people understand how an upcoming project will personally affect them.

Roadway Design Engineer Xing Li uses OpenRoads technology to develop a 3D model that will improve visualization and reduce errors and omissions during the design process.

The still image above was taken from a video created for use at a public hearing to show reclamation of the inner shoulder on Interstate 95 in the Fredericksburg District.

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MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS:

JUST PAY ATTENTION

“If all the car drivers rode motorcycles, they’d be much better car drivers.”

-Trevor Wrayton 12

VDOT Photographer Trevor Wrayton has been riding his

In fact, more than half of the motorcycles involved in fatal

motorcycle to work nearly every day for the last 30 years.

crashes collided with another motor vehicle. Motorists making

It’s a 112-mile round trip.

left turns at intersections are one of the most common

“I like [riding a motorcycle] because you use all your senses,” Trevor said.

“A car is very isolating,” he said. But, although riding a motorcycle can bring a lot of enjoyment, it can also be dangerous.

In 2017, 107 motorcyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes across the commonwealth, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. That total accounted for nearly 13 percent of all traffic fatalities in Virginia, even

causes of motorcycle crashes. “If all the car drivers rode motorcycles, they’d be much better car drivers,” Trevor noted.

Trevor’s best advice to those sharing the road with motorcycles is simple. “Just pay attention,” he said.

If someone you know drives a motorcycle, remind him or her to always wear a helmet—even if the law doesn’t require it. According to NHTSA, an estimated 740 lives could have been saved in 2015 if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.

though, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles typically make up just 3 percent of all registered vehicles.

How can you be more aware of motorcycles and help keep those who ride them safe? For starters, slow down and assess your surroundings.

“For the most part, people pay attention,” Trevor said.

That’s not always the case, though. Ten years ago, he was traveling through Petersburg where Interstates 85 and 95 meet when a car struck him as it was changing lanes.

“She didn’t see me – just moved over in the lane I was in,” he said. “She took me down at 60 mph. She was talking on her phone.”

Fortunately, he was wearing protective gear and wasn’t seriously injured in the crash.

“You have to keep your eye out all the time,” Trevor said, noting that many times you can spot a distracted driver because he or she is weaving or driving slower than other cars.

“It’s the No. 1 thing that worries me most,” he said.

Motorcycles can be hard to spot, and easy to hit. Because they are small and have greater maneuverability than cars

Several weeks ago, Tom Saunders – also a VDOT photographer and motorcyclist – took a portrait of a friend with his new bike.

It’s something he does regularly in his spare time. Those photos turned out so well, they led to a bigger idea. Tom ended up doing a series of portraits, one of which is shown above, with a diverse group of riders and motorcycles that were used as part of a statewide VDOT Motorcycle Safety Awareness campaign in May. “Riding is a lot of fun, but it’s more dangerous than it used

and trucks, motorcycles can be difficult to see on the roadway,

to be – people are so distracted with devices,” Tom said. “As a

and motorists have difficulty judging their distance and speed.

rider, I hope that some really good images will get people to stop, look and get the message.”

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OUR PEOPLE

Chris Burks Job Title: Senior Human Resources Consultant Division: Human Resources

Chris Burks said he has always had an interest in fashion, but it wasn’t until about eight years ago that he started making a statement with his head-turning, vintage style. He is known to don three-piece suits with bell bottomed pants, ruffled tuxedo shirts and flowers in his lapel. “I just like to have fun with it,” said Chris, who searches vintage stores and eBay for much of his 1970s-era clothing and accessories.

“Actions speak louder than words for me,” Chris said. “I’m not a big talker. If I want to say something, I put it in my dress.”

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How long have you worked for VDOT?

Can you tell us about your favorite vacation spot?

Almost six years with VDOT, but a total of 13 with the state.

By far, a sandy beach with warm water washing up on

What’s your professional background?

my toes.

I’ve been in the HR field for 20 years, and I spent six years

Favorite pastime?

in the U.S. Navy.

Spending time with family.

What do you do in your current position?

What’s the first thing you do to start your day?

I assist people and divisions with the full gamut of HR.

Make my bed, and then turn on my music.

What do you like best about your job?

What quality do you admire in other people?

Helping people and divisions with their needs.

A good attitude.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given?

What’s next on your bucket list?

You are your best investment.

A trip to Las Vegas.

How do you spend your free time?

Who is your inspiration?

Shopping, sleeping, traveling.

My mom is my inspiration and a person I really admire.

What’s your favorite food or restaurant?

What’s your best fashion advice?

Seafood.

“Dress to express, not impress!”

What type of music do you like?

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Rap, rhythm and blues, go-go, smooth jazz.

My favorite team in the whole wide world is the

Philadelphia E-A-G-L-E-S!

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This spring, the Administrative Services Division conducted an online survey of Central Office employees and presented a preliminary concept plan for the cafeteria, which included renderings of a possible meal prep area, self-service micro market and seating arrangements. The survey garnered 689 responses, with many expressing a desire for a clean, inviting space with affordable and healthy food options.

Suggestions to provide employees a space to exercise, shower and/or change are being considered as well.

Administrative Services Director Lisa Pride said feedback from the survey is being considered as plans for the cafeteria are refined and presented to agency leadership.

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PARDON OUR DUST Scaffolding and construction at the VDOT Central Office complex have been familiar sights during the past year. But despite the temporary inconvenience, it will give way to a refreshed look and enhanced work environment.

Following a roof replacement that was finished last summer, the 115-year-old Memorial Hospital Building underwent an extensive exterior renovation. Two sides of the building, which featured a patchwork of paint colors, were cleaned, scraped of loose paint and repainted. Exposed stone on the other two sides was cleaned of years of pollution and repairs were made to mortar joins in the masonry. Entryways, trim and the skywalk between the Memorial Hospital and Old Highway buildings were repainted. The west sidewalk along Governor Street and the front sidewalk pavers were also replaced.

As the Hospital Building project came to a close in February, another began to restore the Old Highway Building’s exterior windows, which couldn’t simply be replaced due to the historic nature of the 1939 art deco edifice. In addition to replacing broken and mismatched glass, the project entails reglazing, caulking and painting 234 metal-framed windows, each with six to 20 individual panes of glass. In completed areas, the result has been clearer views to the outside, more natural light and a reduction in drafts.

The Highway Building Annex, built in 1961, is next in line for a makeover. But in the meantime, plans are being finalized to overhaul the employee cafeteria, which closed last fall as a result of vendor staffing issues. The basement space was subsequently demolished to clear the slate for a new concept.

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Did you know the sun’s ultraviolet rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes? We’re all familiar with the immediate damage from these rays – sunburn. What you won’t notice right away is that ultraviolet rays also lead to wrinkles and age spots, and they are the top cause of skin cancer. Follow these recommendations to help protect yourself and your family:

•

Loose fitting, long-sleeved shirts and long pants provide protection from ultraviolet rays.

Clothes made from tightly woven fabric offer the best protection. Darker colors may offer more protection than lighter colors.

•

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from ultraviolet rays and reduce the risk of cataracts.

Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays offer the best protection.

•

Put on broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 before you go outside, even on slightly cloudy or cool days. Don’t forget to put a thick layer on all parts of exposed skin.

Sunscreen wears off, so be sure to reapply if you stay out in the sun for more than a couple of hours.

•

Check the UV Index for the day. This will let you know when risk from ultraviolet rays is highest. A UV Index app is available for smartphones. It can be found by searching “UV Index EPA.”

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“Wakanda forever!” Well, maybe not forever, but at least

In 2017, there were more than 18,000 crashes involving

during the week of March 14 - 18, nearly 4 million motorists

motorists aged 15-20 in Virginia, which is why the Wakanda

throughout the commonwealth saw Changeable Message

message was specifically designed to grab the attention of

Signs (CMS) featuring the message “Wakanda Driver Are You?

millennials. The messages were sent to TOCs statewide and

Safety is King.”

displayed on about 120 message boards. The campaign was

The safety-related highway message was part of an ongoing safety campaign led by the Operations Division in cooperation

also featured on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, where feedback was largely positive.

with the Communications Division, which provided social

In addition, the Wakanda signs received coverage by local

media support to take the message even further. Geared

media, including NBC, CBS and Fox affiliates. But the jewel

toward a younger demographic, the campaign referenced

in the coverage crown, so to speak, was a post by the

the immensely popular “Black Panther” film, which is part

Shade Room, a national celebrity site. Based in Los Angeles,

of the Marvel Comics Universe franchise. The movie topped

the Shade Room has over 2.2 million Instagram followers

the box office for five straight weeks.

and is known as the “TMZ of the internet.” Their Instagram post about VDOT’s Wakanda message generated over 224,000 likes alone.

Positive press and social media response for a VDOT initiative? As T’Challa would say, “This never gets old.”

An estimated 4 million drivers saw the Wakanda CMS sign.

“I hope the success of the Wakanda message will set a new precedent for more eye-catching CMS alerts in the future to reach more people across the commonwealth,” said Traffic Operations Center (TOC) Floor Specialist Dan Taylor, who

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wrote the message. “The goal is, and always will be, improving

The message was supported by an original graphic

safety on our roadways.”

posted on all VDOT’s main social media channels.

THE MILE MARKERS Welcome to your new position in Central Office (Sept. 1 to May 31) Hyung Jun Ahn Senior Pavement Engineer Maintenance

Todd A. Booher Right of Way Agent Right of Way

Jessica A. Cruz Business Manager Communications

Eric S. Akadiri Accountant Accounts Payable Fiscal

Robert H. Bourne III Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

James S. Damer Regional Right of Way Manager Right of Way

Mary-Margaret B. Allen Manager Human Resources

Payne R. Bowen Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Kaelyn N. Davis Environmental Compliance Inspector Environmental

Timothy J. Allen Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Ilker Boz Research Scientist Research Council

Hannelore F. Deastra State Review Appraiser Right of Way

Dustin C. Alwood Toll Facility Assistant Manager Tolling

Stephen C. Brich Commissioner of Highways Commissioner’s Office

Anita L. Demarco Right of Way Agent Right of Way

Luke Twum Ampofo Management Analyst Business Reform and Special Projects

Barbara Bronson Project Manager Information Technology

Lynn M. Doherty Human Resources Program Specialist Human Resources

Angel E. Aymond Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

Mitchell E. Brown Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Theophilus S. Duncan Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

Victoria A. Bains Engineer Program Manager Location and Design Chad A. Baker Training Program Manager Human Resources Pamela M. Balch Right of Way Agent Right of Way Feleshia S. Ballou Program Administrator Office of Public-Private Partnerships Shaneka N. Barksdale Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources Sally H. Barnes Business Coordinator Tolling Travis D. Belcher Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources Daniel R. Boggs Senior Negotiation Specialist Right of Way Nzinga A. Bolden Contract Analyst Maintenance Kellie M. Bonner Talent Acquisition Manager Human Resources

Casey L. Burke Right of Way Associate Right of Way Shelby B. Butler Right of Way Associate Right of Way Robert A. Cafaro Senior IT Enterprise Architect Information Technology Hyun Cho Research Scientist Virginia Transportation Research Council Jacquelyn W. Comuzzi Senior Procurement Officer Administrative Services Monet N. Conner Accountant Accounts Payable Fiscal Teresa L. Cook Special Project Coordinator Right of Way Pamela L. Copeland Procurement Specialist Administrative Services Laura S. Cordrey Senior Business Manager Operations William E. Cordrey IV Systems Supervisor Operations Thomas J. Crouse Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Deborah G. Eggleston Audit Manager Assurance and Compliance Amy R. Ettinger Program Administrator Office of Public-Private Partnerships Diane L. Fair Procurement Manager Administrative Services Michael P. Farnsworth Program Manager Information Technology Skyler P. Farr Construction Engineer Construction Olena O. Fecek Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources Tammy C. Fielder Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Senior Inspector Civil Rights Dana L. Foote Toll Accounting Supervisor Tolling John A. Foraste Senior Engineer MS4 Location and Design Tzeira A. Fortune Business Analyst Administrative Services

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THE MILE MARKERS

continued

Welcome to your new position in Central Office (Sept. 1 to May 31)

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Daniel J. Fourquet Planning Specialist Transportation and Mobility Planning

Maurice A. Hardin Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Elaine B. Fowler Program Coordinator Right of Way

Jeremiah S. Harris Senior Engineering Technician Materials

Robert W. Fowler III Quality Improvement Consultant Administrative Services

Meredith A. Harris Business Manager Location and Design

Gregory A. Freshour Manager Human Resources

Lars G. Harrisville Compliance Specialist Civil Rights

Mona R. Gabriel Assistant State Construction Engineer Construction

Amy B. Hartman Right of Way Specialist Right of Way

Samuel Garcia Human Resources Benefits Specialist Human Resources

Lisa L. Hawkins Business Manager Information Technology

Diana R. Gaston Senior Eminent Domain Coordinator Right of Way

Erich M. Hibbard II Business Architecture Manager Business Reform and Special Projects

Amy W. Golden Program Supervisor Natural Resources Environmental

Knox L. Higley Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Federico J. Gontaruk Engineer Program Manager Location and Design

Tesha L. Hill Business Coordinator Administrative Services

Richard M. Gratz Electronic Technician Toll Facility Tolling

Felicia B. Holland Toll Accounting Supervisor Tolling

Joseph W. Grubbs Business Intelligence Lead Information Technology

Davey A. Holmes Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Faizan Habib Program Administrator Office of Public-Private Partnerships

Jeanette R. Holmes Benefits Specialist Human Resources

Zachary A. Haga Right of Way Associate Right of Way

Hunter J. Holmstrom Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Mathew J. Hall Utilities Relocation Coordinator Right of Way

Theresa M. Horner Environmental Consultant Contract Manager Environmental

Mia S. Hall Program Analyst Human Resources

Sylvester Hubbard III Assistant Division Administrator Information Technology

Spencer R. Hall Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

Cody L. Huffman Core Development Program Engineering Associate Human Resources

Lanksford E. Hankins Jr. Senior Roadway Design Engineer Location and Design

Gurtej S. Hundal Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Zachary L. Hanson Engineer Planning Transportation and Mobility Planning

Charles E. Hylton Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Chelsea S. Jackson Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources Crystal D. Jenkins Right of Way Specialist Right of Way Dennis F. Johnson Right of Way Associate Right of Way Kristen R. Johnson Management Analyst Business Reform and Special Projects Nikia D. Jones Senior Program Analyst Asset Management Vinayak Kamatchi Senior Procurement Officer Administrative Services Kinda Katrib Core Development Program Engineering Associate Human Resources Pavneet Kaur Engineer Planning Transportation and Mobility Planning Frederick A. King Core Development Program Engineering Associate Human Resources Jill C. Kocolis Business Data Analyst Senior Supervisor Infrastructure Investment Main M. Krunz Senior Traffic Engineer Traffic Engineering Marian S. Kshetrapal Employee Relations Coordinator Human Resources Chien Lun Lan Research Scientist Virginia Transportation Research Council Christina L. Landes Manager Human Resources Lori A. Law Manager Civil Rights Lindsay M. LeGrand Assistant Division Administrator Communications John F. Leonard Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

Trumekia D. Leonard Senior Program Specialist Maintenance

Sabrina N. Mirshahi Management Analyst Business Reform and Special Projects

Ingrid T. Quiroz Traffic Data Analyst Traffic Engineering

Xing S. Li Senior Roadway Design Engineer Location and Design

Kimberly H. Mitchell Procurement Officer Alternative Project Delivery

Arthenia E. Rachel Auditor Assurance and Compliance

Jennifer M. Lightfoot Hazmat Program Manager Environmental

Olivia M. Mobayed Planning Specialist Transportation and Mobility Planning

Ziwen Ling Engineer Planning Transportation and Mobility Planning

Karla G. Moore Payroll Specialist Fiscal

Nicole T. Reed Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

Virginia R. Lingham Special Assistant Innovation Commissioner’s Office

Jennifer R. Morano Business Analyst Information Technology

Lewis N. Lloyd Research Scientist Virginia Transportation Research Council

Nuny C. Morgan HRIS Support Specialist Human Resources

Robert S. MacCrimmon Program Management Specialist Infrastructure Investment

Brian F. Newman-Lindsay Construction Engineer Construction

Rajan Manandhar Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Brandon M. Oberlander Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Senior Specialist Civil Rights

Tammy M. Mancinelli Assistant Division Administrator Civil Rights Jeffrey E. Manning Contract Analyst Maintenance Brandi H. Marchant Right of Way Agent Right of Way Jennifer R. Matthews Equipment Warranty Specialist Maintenance Michaela Anne C. McCain Outreach Coordinator Local Assistance Heidi J. McClintic Benefits Specialist Human Resources Megan S. McCracken Business Analyst Information Technology Kieland L. McFarland Program Analyst Construction Donna M. McGuire Procurement Manager Administrative Services Kevin R. McLamb Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources Katrina K. McNeil Financial Analyst Tolling Kristy W. McShea Accounting Specialist Tolling Tolling

Opal N. Revels Procurement Specialist Administrative Services Raquel M. Rickard Industrial Hygienist Environmental Shelley M. Ricks Right of Way Specialist Right of Way Natasha R. Roberts Procurement Officer Administrative Services Jason S. Robinson Assistant Division Administrator Infrastructure Investment

Jennifer L. O’Quinn Communications Manager Communications

James P. Rogers II Engineer Senior Supervisor Traffic Engineering

Bianca K. Otey Inventory Management System Program Coordinator Fiscal

Cherisha J. Rowlette Financial Systems Analyst Fiscal

Nicole D. Palmer Benefits Specialist Human Resources

Arturo A. Ruiz Core Development Program Engineering Associate Human Resources

Amanda E. Paolino Training Program Consultant Human Resources

Aaron J. Rusz Management Analyst Business Reform and Special Projects

Nishant M. Patel Engineer Alternative Project Delivery

Jennifer D. Salyers Location Studies Coordinator Environmental

Patrick Patrong Technical Training Manager Human Resources

Jason T. Sawyers Senior Roadway Design Engineer Location and Design

Nathan M. Pedersen Right of Way Agent Right of Way

Sravani Sayyaparaju Business Data Analyst Structure and Bridge

Tucker J. Phipps Right of Way Associate Right of Way

Richard J. Sealey Jr. Utilities Relocation Coordinator Right of Way

Jeffrey M. Pickering Right of Way Associate Right of Way

Rajendra B. Shrestha Senior Hydraulics Engineer Location and Design

Richard A. Prestiy Senior Audit Manager Assurance and Compliance

Brian C. Simmons Senior Engineering Technician Materials

Keith A. Pritts Utilities Relocation Program Manager Right of Way

Krishna M. Singh Program Supervisor SharePoint Business Reform and Special Projects

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THE MILE MARKERS

continued

Welcome to your new position in Central Office (Sept. 1 to May 31) Vikram Kumar Siripurapu Senior Solutions Architect Information Technology

Melissa A. Unverferth Toll Collector Supervisor Tolling

Richard S. Slate Auditor Assurance and Compliance

Sangeetha Vanchi Senior Program Analyst Asset Management

Daniel L. Smith Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources

Darius A. Vaughan Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources

David K. Smith Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources Jacob W. Spacek Program Analyst Asset Management Jeremy F. Spittle Utilities Relocation Coordinator Right of Way Ralph T. Spring Core Development Program Business Associate Human Resources Michael C. Stiles Assistant Fleet Director Maintenance D’Ann M. Stiltner Specialist Civil Rights Margaret D. Sumiel Procurement Manager Administrative Services Jason S. Tackett Outdoor Advertising Agent Land Use Office Lauren W. Taylor Program Specialist Human Resources Lynee C. Taylor Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Senior Construction Inspector Civil Rights

Jada A. Wade Toll Collector Supervisor Tolling Hadeel Wafa Core Development Program Engineering Associate Human Resources Lindsay E. Walker II Equipment Fleet Director Maintenance Sherman D. Ware Outdoor Advertising Program Manager Land Use Office Brian W. Waters Senior Hydraulics Engineer Location and Design Derrick L. Wayland Sr. Construction Inspector Trainee Human Resources Herbert H. Whay Jr. Senior Outdoor Advertising Agent Land Use Office Carla E. Wilkerson Senior Survey Technician Location and Design Tandi R. Williams Program Specialist Human Resources

Cassandra Thompson Senior Human Resources Consultant Human Resources

Sherrie L. Winston Payroll Specialist Fiscal

Robert C. Tieman Engineer Program Manager PMO Location and Design

Todd A. Zion Senior Negotiation Specialist Right of Way

Daniel B. Toombs Program Analyst Land Use Land Use Office Spencer K. Townsend Senior Program Analyst Asset Management

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Ricky A. Via Assistant Division Administrator Operations

Retirees (Sept. 1 to May 31) Barry L. Arrington Land Acquisition and Property Management Agent II Right of Way and Utilities

Joan G. Johnson Procurement Manager II Administrative Services

Karen C. Strickler Program Administrative Specialist II Infrastructure Investment

Joe R. Marling Engineering Technician II Traffic Engineering

Shamsi K. Taghavi Compliance/Safety Officer IV Safety, Security and Emergency Management

Lelia L. Martin Media Specialist II Administrative Services

John H. Taylor Architect/Engineer I Construction

Cynthia T. Bradley Program Administrative Specialist I Human Resources

Albert P. McGarrity Land Acquisition and Property Management Agent III Right of Way and Utilities

James K. Thomason Land Acquisition and Property Management Manager I Right of Way and Utilities

William A. Brown Electronic Technician III Maintenance

Jesus S.L. Mendoza Architect/Engineer I Structure and Bridge

Frank W. Waldrop Jr. Policy Planning Specialist II Location and Design

Warren Bultje Architect/Engineer I Location and Design

Cheryl A. Miltenberger Engineering Technician III Location and Design

Deborah C. Wells Human Resources Manager II Human Resources

Christine R. Crain Program Administrative Specialist III Civil Rights

Sharon W. Morales Program Administrative Specialist II Safety, Security and Emergency Management

Kimberly L. Wingo Financial Services Specialist II Fiscal

Ella P. Daughtrey Program Administrative Specialist I Right of Way and Utilities

Reginald M. Moseley Program Administrative Specialist III Civil Rights

Richard F. Wood Compliance Manager II Safety, Security and Emergency Management

Pamela D. Davis Information Technology Specialist III Information Technology

Brooke K. Mullery Trainer and Instructor III Human Resources

Jacob M. Eshler Policy Planning Specialist II Business Transformation

James A. Nixon Jr. Engineering Technician III Materials

John M. Worrell Land Acquisition and Property Management Agent II Right of Way and Utilities

Andrew B. Glenn Jr. Policy Planning Specialist II Maintenance

Emmette R. Peterson Engineering Technician III Structure and Bridge

Allan E. Grady Trainer and Instructor III Human Resources

Kathy L. Phillips Human Resources Analyst I Human Resources

Steven D. Hamlett Program Administrative Specialist II Right of Way and Utilities

Sharon K. Ponquinette Program Administrative Manager III Civil Rights

Stephany D. Hanshaw Program Administrative Manager III Operations

Richard T. Pugh Program Administrative Specialist I Civil Rights

Charles L. Harris Jr. General Administrative Manager II Operations

John S. Reus Jr. Audit Services Manager II Assurance and Compliance

Samuel W. Hayes Architect/Engineer Manager II Transportation and Mobility Planning

Catherine A. Scharlau Program Administrative Specialist I Right of Way and Utilities

Harvey M. Heflin Land Acquisition and Property Management Agent III Right of Way and Utilities

Stephen Scherr Trainer and Instructor I Human Resources

Colleen Bolden Program Administrative Specialist I Asset Management Rose-Ann Boltz Human Resources Analyst II Human Resources

Mildred L. Holmes Land Acquisition and Property Management Agent II Right of Way and Utilities

Larry W. Wyatt Architect/Engineer I Location and Design

Agnes E. Scott Program Administrative Specialist I Infrastructure Investment Donald E. Silies III Program Administrative Manager III Construction

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PHOTO ALBUM

MLK Day of Service: HomeAgain Donations ‘Topped All Other Years’ During the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, divisions were encouraged to “adopt” a room and help supply household items for families and individuals overcoming homelessness through HomeAgain Richmond.

“I don’t physically count donations, but I will say that this year topped all of the other years,” said Civil Rights Assistant Division Administrator Tammy Mancinelli, who heads up Day of Service activities. “We changed it up this year to request ‘rooms’ to be filled for newly-homed participants in the HomeAgain program, and VDOTers really took it to heart.”

Among the donations were towels and toasters, fire extinguishers and shower curtains. One employee included a hand-drawn picture from her daughter to brighten the donation box. “I was touched at the outpouring of donations,” Tammy said. “We came together and provided many household items to some very deserving people as they begin a new chapter in life.”

This is the seventh year Central Office has partnered with HomeAgain Richmond during the MLK Day of Service.

Adopt-A-Highway The annual Adopt-a-Highway spring cleanup was held on May 23. While the group was small this year, they made the most of their time – picking up six bags of trash at the Interstate 95/Broad Street interchange.

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VDOT Summer Interns VDOT welcomed over 75 new and returning interns and Civil Engineer Scholars for summer 2018. Students have been assigned to work across the state, with representation in all nine districts and Central Office in both engineering and business capacities. Central Office is currently hosting 30 interns.

VDOT Road Runners Set New Record With about 60 Central Office and Richmond District employees, VDOT had its largest team ever at this year’s Anthem Corporate Run. More than 6,100 participants on 213 teams representing companies from across the region ran or walked the 5-kilometer (3.1- mile) course at the Innsbrook Corporate Center the evening of June 7. This was the third year VDOT had a team at the Richmond Sports Backers event that promotes workplace wellness initiatives, team building programs and business-to-business networking opportunities. In the Military & Government category, the VDOT men’s team won first place, the women’s team took second and the co-ed team placed third.

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WHERE’S THE CONE?

Make it a solo mission or a team operation – this room might give you a tingling sensation.

White on the walls and white on the floor, it’s a place that’s full of history and lore.

Find the cone, take a selfie with it and email your photo to EmployeeNews@VDOT.Virginia.gov.

The first photo we receive will be featured in the next issue of The Central Hub.

On the cover: VDOT employees who ride their motorcycles to work. From left to right: Trevor Wrayton, Dwayne Altice, Ed Land, Mark Richards and Brian King.

Produced by the Communications Division Editors: Jenny O’Quinn, Melodie N. Martin Photography: Tom Saunders, Trevor Wrayton, Michaele White Graphic Design: Wendy J. Jenkins Contributors: Sarah Church, Anissa Rafeh Division Administrator: Shannon Nicole Marshall Content Ideas? Contact us.

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