Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

The meeting focused on updates related to the Digital Delivery Workspace. Key discussion points included the planned release of the 22R1 update scheduled for February 3rd, which involves significant schema changes to DGNLIB files, configuration updates to align with Bentley standards, and the addition of new levels and feature definitions. It was stressed that the 22R1 workspace is designed for the 22R1 software version and should not be run on older versions due to schema conflicts. Updates on excavation elements, which have been split into classes with corresponding feature definitions for 2D, 3D, and 3C representations, were provided. Changes were also implemented to move cut and fill volumes off the default level, and new top/bottom mesh setting levels were created. Furthermore, discussions covered changes to sheet model borders and text to use a ByLevel setting for easier color modification, and the inclusion of levels for up to four phases of traffic control phasing. Updates on OpenBridge Designer development were also presented, emphasizing the move towards using the 3D model as the central repository for design data, which serves as the contract document in digital delivery. Methods for conveying design intent, such as using Save Views that mimic typical 2D plan sets and leveraging item types (attributes) attached directly to model elements for accessible information, were demonstrated. The overarching goal discussed is improving overall design quality, realizing efficiencies in construction and fabrication, and enabling digital information use across the full asset life cycle.

The Fall Quarterly Meeting included updates from the Deputy Secretary for Multimodal Transportation regarding Amtrak's bicycle access program, a District 8 trail crossing pilot project, and COVID-19 funding issues. The committee deferred the election for new officers until an in-person meeting could be held. Updates were also provided by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources on the 2020-2024 PA Outdoor Recreation Plan and the designation of the Ghost Town Trail as Trail of the Year. The Department of Health reviewed the status of the State Physical Activity and Nutrition 5-year grant, including the Walkable Communities initiative. PennDOT presented updates on the Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, and the group discussed legislative updates concerning e-bikes and Personal Delivery Devices (PDD). A request was made for PennDOT to issue a statement supporting the committee's resolution related to e-bikes.

The meeting commenced with the introduction of the new PennDOT Statewide Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator. Key discussions included legislative updates concerning Parking Separated Bike Lanes (HB140), E-bikes, Automated Speed Enforcement, and Vulnerable Highway Users (HB2100). Agency reports covered the status of legacy Safe Routes to School (SRTS) funds, updates on Vulnerable Roadway Users funding via HSIP, DCNR grant awards for trail projects, and the Department of Health’s WalkWorks program focusing on Active Transportation Plans. Presentations detailed the US Bike Route 11 Study timeline and alternative alignments within Franklin County. Furthermore, a draft policy for mid-block crosswalks and trail crossings intended for incorporation into PennDOT's Publication 46 Traffic Engineering Manual was presented, outlining standardized guidance, procedures for engineering studies, and maintenance responsibilities. The committee also briefly reviewed the PPAC Bylaws, noting that officer elections would occur at the summer meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included legislative updates concerning e-scooter programs in Pittsburgh, the reauthorization of automated enforcement in active work zones and on Roosevelt Boulevard via Act 38 of 2023, and the status of bills related to parking near protected bike lanes and stopping for pedestrians. A presentation was given on the Pennsylvania's Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) 2025-2029, detailing its five major priority areas, data collection methods including three surveys, and anticipated timeline culminating in a public release in Summer 2025. The committee also reviewed the adoption of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices Version 11, focusing on changes impacting vulnerable road users, such as intersection bicycle boxes and new bicycle route signs. An update was provided on the Aging Our Way, PA Master Plan for Older Adults, noting active transportation actions were proposed for years 2 to 5. Finally, a review of changes in the U.S. Access Board's Public Right of Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) Final Rule was conducted, covering specifics like cross slope requirements and curb ramp standards.

The meeting commenced with a quorum declared. Key discussions centered on the Safe Systems Approach, including an update on Vulnerable Road User (VRU) safety assessment activities, the implications of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's VRU 15% Rule, and the status of VRU funding obligations, particularly the use of pedestrian countdown timer signals. There was an extensive discussion regarding the selection of countermeasures, the effectiveness of systemic improvements, and whether measures like Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) and HAWK signals are eligible for funding. A legislative update covered pending bills related to distracted driving, e-scooters, protected bike lanes, radar for local police, automated speed enforcement, and defining vulnerable highway users. The committee also received a presentation on the draft Chapter 13: Pedestrian Facilities for PennDOT Design Manual Part 2 (DM2) rewrite, with a deadline set for member comments. Agency updates were provided by DCNR regarding the Office of Outdoor Recreation and by the Department of Health concerning the WalkWorks program and active transportation plan development. Finally, public comment focused on cyclist rights, including necessary amendments to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and improving law enforcement training on the 4-foot passing law.