Check out these web resources
Segmental concrete bridges
www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/segmental
Segmental concrete bridge technology (SCBT) is a method of joining cast-in-place or precast bridge elements to form a continuous span. It can be a useful solution for deep valley crossings, crossings in sensitive environments or over wide spans of water, bypasses across existing roadways, and smaller scale projects in tight urban spaces.
The FHWA’s SCBT “virtual” team has a new website. It includes discussions about specific engineering issues, a reference library, photo gallery, calendar of events, and archive of frequently asked questions.
More FHWA virtual teams
Virtual teams provide expert advice and other services related to specific topics.
Fiber reinforced polymer composites: www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/frp/index.htm
High performance steel: www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/hps.htm
High strength bolts: www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/bolts.htm
Seismic technology: www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/seismic/index.htm
High performance concrete: knowledge.fhwa.dot.gov/cops/hpcx.nsf/home
New GIS website
The FHWA has a new website highlighting geographic information systems (GIS) uses in transportation, events, and resources, plus contacts for specific questions.
Road safety tools for local agencies
trb.org/publications/nchrp/nchrp_syn_321.pdf
A new National Cooperative Highway Research Program synthesis report examines practical roadway safety tools and procedures that are relatively easy to apply and that can be implemented by agencies with limited financial support and personnel.
Rural motorists face greater risk
www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/airbags/
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rural Americans face greater risk of being injured or killed in a traffic crash than those who live and commute in urban areas. Especially at risk are pickup truck occupants and 15–20 year olds. Find the report on NHTSA’s website. Go to the following page and click on “Buckle Up America - Safety Belts and Rural Communities” (posted 05-28-04).
New tool for rural agencies
The National Association of Counties and the National Association of Development Organizations have launched ruraltransportation.org, a new web-based resource for rural transportation stakeholders, including local elected officials and regional development professionals. The site provides a venue for sharing best practices, forums for peer learning, highlights of local initiatives, an ITS network, calendar, and other resources.
Two sites just for kids
www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/outreach/KidsPage/
NHTSA’s Kid’s Page features Vince and Larry, crash test dummies who act as tour guides through topics like bike and bus safety. The site features games and a virtual coloring book. Teacher’s aids are provided for use in the classroom.
The APWA has a website to introduce children to the important role of public
works in their lives: clean drinking water, paved sidewalks and streets, safe
pedestrian crossings, etc. There are separate sections for elementary, junior
high, and senior high school children.
