FHWA Local Aid Support just announced their 2021 Build a Better Mousetrap Award Recipients and our own Independent Highway District was recognized for the Pioneer Award.
Congratulations!
Pioneer Award (A locally relevant product/tool that is among the first to solve a maintenance problem with a home-grown solution.)
Winner: Independent Highway District, Idaho
Innovation: “Recessed Thermoplastic Markers”
Description: The Independent Highway District developed a process to extend the life of the centerline markings to increase safety for residents using a major roadway in the community.
Check out the video below highlighting their innovative solution.
FHWA Local Aid Support Announces 2021 Build a Better Mousetrap Award Recipients
July 21, 2021 Announcement
The Federal Highway Administration’s Local Aid Support team today announced the 2021 recipients of the Build a Better Mousetrap awards. Each year, FHWA recognizes and celebrates local public agencies who pioneer innovations that improve transportation performance. Previous winners have been recognized for a range of innovations that save time and money while improving safety and customer service in their communities.
FHWA is recognizing this year’s award recipients in the categories of Innovative Project; Smart Transformation; Bold Steps; and, Pioneer. The winners were announced during the National Local Technical Assistance Program Association Virtual Summer Conference.
Congratulations to all the recipients for each category.
Here is a summary:
Innovative Project Award
Any solution that addresses any or all phases of the ‘project’ lifecycle – Planning, Design/Engineering, Construction, Operations and Maintenance. This project introduces new ideas, is locally relevant, original, and creative in thinking.
Winner: Jones County, Iowa
Innovation: “Hopper”
Description: Jones County developed a Hopper to improve routine maintenance of shoulders along paved roads.
Bold Steps Award
A locally relevant high-risk project or process showing a break-through solution with demonstrated high-reward.
Winner: Illinois Tollway
Innovation: “Roadway Electric Portable Training System”
Description: The Illinois Tollway developed a portable Roadway Electric System that models actual electric equipment along the tollway system to improve safety for workers and for tollway users.
Smart Transformation Award
A locally relevant significant change in any transportation activity or process that is SMART “Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound” in nature that results in improved efficiencies.
Winner: Seminole County, Florida
Innovation: “Mobile Applications for ADA Inspections”
Description: Seminole County developed a combination of mobile applications to improve accessibility according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Pioneer Award
A locally relevant product/tool that is among the first to solve a maintenance problem with a home-grown solution.
Winner: Independent Highway District, Idaho
Innovation: “Recessed Thermoplastic Markers”
Description: The Independent Highway District developed a process to extend the life of the centerline markings to increase safety for residents using a major roadway in the community.
The Federal Highway Administration Local Aid Support team supports workforce development and technology deployments within Local, Tribal, and Federal Land Management Agency transportation networks. Further information can be found at https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/clas/.