Jim Humphrey attended the NC BOT meeting on Wednesday, November 4, 2009. Below are his notes. Thanks Jim for sharing!
Highlights
-The BOT will consider changing design standards and public notification processes/requirements for noise abatement walls in the next months. The long time between adoption of environmental documents and actual construction of NCDOT projects causes problems with citizens purchasing property along planned corridors. There was talk of increasing city, real estate agent and closing attorney accountability for sharing info but no decision was reached. There was a feeling that increased legislation will ultimately be required. Federal Standards are being revised and NCDOT must show their policy complies 6 months after the federal rules are finalized (federal rules are expected by mid 2009) A NCDOT Noise Barrier Aesthetics Committee will be formed to look at improved aesthetics for future and existing noise walls. Increased use of textures, colors and murals will likely be part of future recommendations.
-The legislature adopted legislation allowing cities and counties to permit golf carts on public roads. The NCDOT is developing requirements for use on state maintained streets and model ordinances for cities to consider. The NCLM is expected to assist in publicizing.
-The NCDOT is asking the BOT to authorize public hearing regarding potential changes allowing oversize/overweight transport of some loads on Sundays. Changes were requested by companies that move large boats.
-The nation’s first totally “green” airfield lighting (all runways) is being pursued at the Raleigh-Durham airfield thru use of LED lighting.
-The NCDOT will become more involved in Norfolk Southern and NC Railroad Board Meetings (and visa versa) in order to enhance partnerships.
-A Complete Streets Advisory Committee has been formed to assist the NCDOT in implementing it’s Complete Streets Policy. Tracy Newsome of Charlotte is the Vice-Chair.
-The NCDOT is looking seriously at tolling ferry operations to generate revenues.
-A draft Annual Report highlighting NCDOT’s accomplishments and shortfalls is complete and being reviewed by the BOT. The report will include a scorecard of progress on key accountabilities.
-A draft Ethics Policy has been distributed to board members for comments and approval.
