SOLUTIONS A FLEET OF The Fleet Operations Division was created five years ago with agency-wide - the Texas Department of Transportation FTP Server
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
A FLEET OF
SOLUTIONS
The Fleet Operations Division was created
five years ago with agency-wide
changes to resource management,
reporting and safety.
VOLUME
VOLUME
4343
| ISSUE
| ISSUE
4 |5JULY/AUGUST
| SEPT/OCT 2019
2019
PUTTING TN MAGAZINE
SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER 2019
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
AN END TO
AND CUSTOMER SERVICE
Bob Kaufman
COMMUNICATIONS
DIVISION DIRECTOR
Beth Hallmark
TRAFFIC
EXECUTIVE AND EMPLOYEE
COMMUNICATIONS
DIRECTOR/EDITOR
Brent Dollar
MANAGING EDITOR
Shannon McIntire
DEATHS
ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITORS
Phyllis Chandler-Gordon
Ryan Self
FEATURE WRITERS
Tracey Lamphere
JAMES BASS CONTRIBUTORS
Arlin Alvarez
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Danielle Boyd
Laura Cruzada
Sarah Dupre
Karen Goelkel
B
Sonja Gross
Tony Hartzel
y now, you’ve probably heard of Road to Zero. As the name implies, we plan to end all Julie Kelly
traffic deaths on Texas roads by 2050. Lauren Macias-Cervantes
Tim McAlavy
So why embark on a venture that sounds impossible? The numbers speak for Becky Ozuna
themselves. By the time you finish reading this column, three crashes will have happened on Michelle Raglon
Karen Threlkeld
Texas roads. And by the time you leave for work today, three people will have died in a crash – Will van Overbeek
someone’s mother, father or child who won’t make it home today. Darah Waldrip
Brad Wheelis
And that is why we are working on this campaign. We want traffic deaths to be unusual. We
PHOTOGRAPHY
want a death from a crash to be an exception, and not the norm. TxDOT and
Last year, more than 3,600 people lost their lives in traffic collisions. And while that number GDC Marketing & Ideation
Unless otherwise noted
is down from the more than 3,700 who died in 2017, it tells us we still have a long way to
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
go, but we have a plan. For the next two fiscal years, we’ll spend an additional $600 million GDC Marketing & Ideation
across the state to make road and technology improvements like widening roads, adding new PRINTED BY
cable barriers to separate traffic and installing new signage to alert drivers to traffic dangers. TxDOT Print Services
Austin, TX
And those additions are on top of the safety elements that are built into every project.
TN IS PUBLISHED BY THE
Reaching the goal will be hard, even with our first milestone of cutting the number of deaths TEXAS DEPARTMENT
in half by 2035. But the difference between hard and impossible is commitment. OF TRANSPORTATION
125 E. 11th St.
So here’s my request: help us. Just do what you already know to do. Slow down. Focus your Austin, TX 78701-2483
attention on the road and stay off your cellphone. Wear your seat belt. And if you choose to CONTACT TN EDITOR
drink, don’t combine it with driving. If you and I make this a personal goal, and get everyone we Have questions or
comments about TN?
love to join us, we can get to zero deaths. Email TNideas@txdot.gov
I’m looking forward to the day when everyone makes it home safely. I know you are, too. and include “TN Editor”
in the subject line.
Thanks for taking the journey with me.
© Copyright 2019
2 TN September- October 2019
10 ON THE
COVER
Five years ago, the Fleet
Operations Division came
into being. TN takes a look
at how this change created
opportunities and innovation
within the agency, and what
the future might hold for fleet.
FEATURED STORIES NEWS AND NOTES TN TRADITIONS
12 Introducing Engineer Ivan Baker 5 Saving Lives with Cancer Screening 4 5 Things You Need to Know Right Now
17 N oise Solution for Zoo 8 Don’t mess on Walking Dead 6 Talk Around the State
16 Adopt-a-Highway Employee of the Year 9 TxDOT 101: SIBs
14 NEW BLOOD PRESSURE
GUIDELINES
19 TxDOTCONNECT Grit Award
20 Take Daughters and Sons to Work Day
21 New Digs in Dallas
26 Employee Q&A
22 H ighlights from the Legislative Session
23 W orkplace Violence Awareness 24 I AM A…
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER
18
TxDOT AT 27 Where Am I?
ARCHEOLOGY 27 TxDOT Calendar
FIELD SCHOOL 28 Milestones
and Memoriam
31 TxDOT Chimes In
31 Bright Lights
32 Journey to
Wellness
CONTENTS TN September - October 2019 3
2 Barth and Bryant represent
TxDOT with ERS and AASHTO
TxDOT’s own Brian Barth, director of project
planning and development, has been elected as a trustee
for the Employees Retirement System board. The six-
member Board of Trustees manages the investment
of the retirement trust funds and the administration
of state employee and retiree health benefits, other
insurance benefits, a deferred compensation plan for
voluntary retirement savings and a flexible spending
program. Michael Bryant, director of the civil rights
division at the Texas Department of Transportation,
has been appointed to a two-year term as vice chair
of the American Association of State Highway and
Transportation Officials Committee on Civil Rights.
3 Selissen named
Chief Information Officer
Anh Selissen is TxDOT’s new Chief Information
Officer beginning in September. Selissen has led
THINGS
enterprise IT systems and staff in both the public and
private sectors. She was previously CIO at NuStats Inc.,
and director of Enterprise Systems at the University of
Texas at Austin. Most recently she served as deputy CIO
YOU NEED
at the Texas Comptroller’s Office. In her role as CIO, she
will focus on the continuing and increasing importance
of information security, infrastructure and strategic
direction, while overseeing the personnel and vendor
TO KNOW activities of the Information Management Division.
RIGHT NOW 4 New IT service desk brings
improvements
In September, a new centralized IT service
desk brings more capabilities to quickly resolve
employees’ issues. Improvements include combining
the PeopleSoft support desk into the new centralized
location, activating chat functionality for support and
1 New district engineers for
Beaumont and El Paso
The Beaumont and El Paso districts both recently got
expanding expertise at the service desk to resolve
issues without having to speak to additional agents.
The service desk phone number remains the same.
new district engineers. Don Smith is the new district
engineer for the Beaumont District. Smith joins TxDOT
from the Hawaii Department of Transportation where
he served for five years. Before moving to Hawaii,
he was with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for
21 years until his retirement in 2014. Tomas Trevino
5 Anderson named director of
Support Services Division
Tim Anderson is the new director of the Support
was appointed the new district engineer for the El Paso Services Division. Anderson was the section manager
District in June. He comes to El Paso from the Corpus for Toll Projects in the Toll Operations Division where
Christi District, where he was deputy district engineer. he was responsible for project management and project
He has been with the Corpus Christi District for selection. He has been with TxDOT since 2016. He was
27 years and led its response to Hurricane Harvey. previously with the Texas Military Department and
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. He is retired
from the US Army.
4 TN September- October 2019
CANCER
SCREENING
SAVES A LIFE
W
hen John Ravare, special crew member
with the Beaumont District, went in for
his yearly checkup last November, he
wasn’t expecting to be diagnosed with cancer a few
weeks later. While the checkup went fine, his doctor
urged him to schedule a colonoscopy, something
Ravare had been putting off.
The grandfather of 24 and great-grandfather
to one had his first colonoscopy the day before
Thanksgiving which led to the discovery of polyps.
John Ravare with the Beaumont District
caught his cancer early with a screening.
I want people to be aware
that once you reach a certain
age, you need to go in for and revealed the disease had not spread and did not require
a screening. Don’t think cancer additional treatment.
Ravare was able to return to normal duty in early March.
can’t happen to you.
He wants to use his experience to encourage others to get screened
for cancer.
“I want people to be aware that once you reach a certain age, you
need to go in for a screening. Don’t think cancer can’t happen to
The following Monday he was notified he had you,” he said.
colon cancer. Two more colonoscopies followed He now has a plan with his doctor and will be making a colonoscopy
his initial diagnosis with one finding an additional part of his yearly checkup.
area containing cancer. “I’ve lost loved ones to cancer. I want to make sure I can be there
“I was scared. I lost two grandfathers to prostate to see my grandkids grow,” Ravare said.
cancer, but colon cancer wasn’t something I had Ravare is also grateful for the support of the TxDOT family and
really thought about,” Ravare said. the benefits offered by the agency.
While the rest of the world was celebrating the “And I’m so thankful to be a part of the TxDOT team,” he said.
arrival of the New Year, Ravare was preparing for “After seeing another co-worker battle cancer, I’m fully aware of
his upcoming surgery to remove the two sections how blessed I am to have great insurance and a great team backing
of his colon. His surgery on Jan. 7 was successful me up.”
TN September - October 2019 5
TxDOT TAL K
AR OU ND THE STATE
From the Panhandle to the Valley and all points in between, TN brings
you transportation highlights happening throughout our great state.
AMARILLO Amarillo begins construction on segment of SL 335
In early June, local and state officials helped the Amarillo District officially break ground on the next
segment of State Loop 335, which will relocate a portion of the loop one mile west to Helium Road.
This project is aimed at alleviating congestion on the existing SL 335, also known as Soncy Road, in
west and southwest Amarillo. From a long-range perspective, it will create a viable north-south route for
traffic through the Amarillo area, moving it away from downtown.
“This road is important to the movement of
freight and goods, especially the ties into I-27,”
said former Texas Transportation Commissioner
Jeff Austin.
In addition to kicking off the next section of
Amarillo’s loop, District Engineer Brian Crawford
noted that significant progress is being made on
the expansion of SL 335.
“From I-27 to FM 1541 — or Washington Street
— $58 million in construction has already been
completed, giving motorists a controlled access
freeway-type facility in the southeastern section,”
Crawford said. “We’re also at the midpoint of
Former Commissioner a $43 million project to rebuild the South I-27
Jeff Austin speaks at the
SL 335 groundbreaking in
and Loop 335 interchange and expand SL 335
the Amarillo District. from I-27 to west of Coulter Street.”
EL PASO El Paso District celebrates its centennial
The El Paso District celebrated its 100-year anniversary in May. The district is the largest TxDOT
district by geographical area at 21,709 square miles and is home to many Texas firsts including the
first diverging diamond intersection and in-pavement lighting, the first modern roundabouts on a state
system and the only state-owned international bridge.
“Transportation has come a long way in 100 years,” said Eddie Valtier, director of Transportation
Planning and Development. “When you look at our district from El Paso to Guadalupe Pass to Presidio,
it’s amazing to see how some of our projects have
improved and will continue to improve safety on
our roadways and the way people travel. The sheer
size and different climates of our district also
makes it incredible to think how many roadways
our staff take care of on a daily basis.”
A week-long centennial celebration kicked off
during the district’s annual safety banquet and
included a tourism fair at the Travel Information
Center in Anthony, a resolution by the El Paso
County Commissioners, a proclamation at El Paso
The El Paso District
celebrated its 100-year City Council and a public open house at district
anniversary in May with, headquarters. Festivities ended with the cutting of
among other things,
a public open house. a giant hard hat-shaped cake.
6 TN September- October 2019
Next leg of US 290 East breaks ground in Austin District AUSTIN
In May, TxDOT was joined by officials from Lee County and the city of Giddings to kick off
construction of a widening project for US 290 East. The project is one of several underway that will
complete a four-lane divided section of US 290 in Bastrop and Lee counties.
“This project helps us achieve the ultimate goal to divide US 290 from Elgin to Giddings,” former
Austin District Engineer Terry McCoy said. “The final product will not only benefit local traffic but
those who travel from Austin to Houston and back.”
A grassy median with a cable barrier will separate eastbound lanes from the westbound lanes along
an 8-mile stretch of US 290. Inside and outside shoulders will also be added.
“This is the beginning of a great new safety effort,” said Lee County Judge Paul Fischer. “It took
a team to make it happen. A big thanks to TxDOT.”
The $28.3 million project is funded by TxDOT. The contractor is Big Creek Construction LTD. The
project is expected to be complete by summer 2021, weather permitting.
Two additional projects are underway to divide US 290 from Elgin to Giddings. The McDade and
Paige projects are in Bastrop County.
Officials kick off a widening
project for US 290 East.
North Texas Regional Airport to get improvements PARIS
A $350,000 grant approved by the Texas Transportation Commission at its June meeting will fund
improvements at the North Texas Regional Airport in Grayson County.
The funds will be used to update the facility’s
master plan and pavement management plan through
Grayson County and TxDOT’s Aviation Facilities
Grant Program, which preserves and improves the
state’s general aviation system.
This year, TxDOT expects to provide approximately
$60 million in funding for planning, constructing
and maintaining community airports. Approximately
275 community airports in Texas are eligible for funding.
Arrivals and departures from community airports
account for more than three million flight hours per
North Texas Regional
year, and provide aircraft facilities for agricultural, Airport gets TxDOT
medical, business and commuter use. grant for improvements.
TN September - October 2019 7
EVEN
ZOMBIES
T
xDOT’s beloved Don’t mess with Texas®
anti-litter campaign slogan was featured
on a recent episode of the television
show Fear the Walking Dead. The show’s main
character, Morgan, sported his official Don’t mess
with Texas t-shirt while fighting zombies and
performing other post-apocalyptic duties.
TxDOT worked with the show’s producers to
license the trademarked slogan since the episode
focused on the clean-up of a plane crash site.
In its fifth season, Fear the Walking Dead is
a spinoff of the AMC network’s original zombie
series The Walking Dead. Shot in the Austin area,
parts of the show are set in Texas. The official Don’t
mess with Texas shirt is in the second episode of
the fifth season. Watch the show on Sundays on
AMC or online at AMC.com.
8 TN September- October 2019
How the SIB helps local
entities pay for needed projects
EDITOR’S NOTE: TxDOT 101 is a regular feature and interest from the loans are reinvested into the
that focuses on explaining a common topic for SIB. To keep the program evenly distributed, TxDOT
the agency. limits how much can be borrowed per project and
T
borrower, based on the bank’s fund capacity.
o fund transportation projects, the state The interest rate on a SIB loan is determined by
depends on motor fuels taxes, federal the credit rating of the borrower, length of the loan
reimbursements and other sources approved and market rates. The SIB offers a special interest
by the Texas Legislature. And as many of these
projects require some level of local funding, cities
and counties often need help to meet their local The SIB, which was created in 1997,
matching requirements. A loan from the State allows public or private entities
Infrastructure Bank, or SIB, can fill that void. with authority to build, maintain or
The SIB, which was created in 1997, allows public finance road projects to borrow funds
or private entities with authority to build, maintain at or below market interest rates.
or finance road projects to borrow funds at or below
market interest rates. And unlike some traditional
loaning sources, the SIB does not charge a fee for rate reduction for any entity within an Economically
the loan application, has no loan handling charges Disadvantaged County, which is a great benefit
and the interest rate is determined at the time of the of the program.
application, rather than at loan closing. To date, the SIB has made 118 loans totaling
Eligible entities can use the program to help more than $600 million to entities. That assistance
pay for projects both on and off the state highway has helped develop more than $6 billion in
system, and loan funds can be used for utility transportation projects around the state.
relocation, right-of-way acquisition, construction, The SIB is managed by the Project Finance,
financial and legal advisory fees and other uses Debt and Strategic Contract Division. Find more
spelled out in the program rules. information about the SIB program on txdot.gov,
The SIB is a revolving loan fund and all principal keywords State Infrastructure Bank.
TN September - October 2019 9
COVER STORY
ARE WE THERE YET?
Fleet Operations looks to the future five years into its journey
I
n 2014, TxDOT’s fledgling Fleet Operations Division was
launching big changes at TxDOT.
Originally a section of the former General Services
Division, TxDOT’s fleet was managed at the district level for
many years, then went to a regional model before becoming
a stand-alone division.
“We had twenty-five different management strategies,
which created inconsistencies in fleet size, condition and
utilization,” said San Antonio District Engineer Mario Jorge.
“The Fleet Operations Division has leveled that across
the state.”
The Fleet Operations Division began a fleet overhaul
to improve safety, efficiency and costs. TxDOT sold aging,
underused assets and put the proceeds back into a smaller
but better fleet. Some older but reliable pieces were pulled
into a Strategic Reserve fleet for statewide use when needed. David Aguirre at the San Angelo District.
To supplement the fleet, the division created an equipment
rental program.
“The most important fleet improvement has been the The rental program is now identifying equipment
upgrade of our overall fleet,” said Childress District Engineer the department should consider purchasing.
Marty Smith. “The Childress District was forced to look at our “The analysis of the type of equipment that
fleet and determine what were the core types of equipment we is rented should be completed,” Johnston said.
needed and what were specialized pieces of equipment that “The plan can then minimize the rental of
could be rented.” equipment based upon the utilization of different
types of equipment.”
Systematic management TxDOT’s fleet has become safer over the
An important project was upgrading TxDOT’s fleet past five years as the Fleet Operations Division
management system to Fleet Navigator, known as FNAV, for retrofitted equipment with backup cameras,
more robust record keeping and reporting. The system’s GPS Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and
component tracks equipment for better resource management attenuator visibility upgrades.
and safety. FNAV also analyzes equipment life cycle costs to The division has improved equipment support
help the Fleet Operations Division and districts make sound during emergency operations, with shops working
purchasing decisions. across district lines. During Hurricane Harvey, Fleet
“I have noticed a very professional, systematic Operations provided rentals and mechanic
method to determine the replacement schedule support around the clock.
for all types of equipment,” said Tom Johnston, “The direct and comprehensive
San Angelo District director of operations. response by Fleet Operations to mobilize
“The criteria to make the selection has resulted with crews has allowed equipment
in the replacement of the correct equipment with to continuously operate during life-
a result of a better fleet.” threatening events,” Jorge said.
10 TN September- October 2019COVER STORY
At the Childress District: (l to r) Marty Smith, Jimmy Booth, Malcomb O’Daniel, Mat Foster,
Michael Osborne, Machele Walden, Chase Foster, Joseph Draper and Heath Rothwell.
Innovative programs issues and speed up repairs. The division also
During its first five years, the division has also implemented provides specialized training for mechanics
or expanded some innovative programs. and technicians.
The alternative fuels program is entering a new era under the The results of TxDOT’s fleet transformation are
division. Pilots for compressed natural gas pickups, a CNG dump significant. In 2013, the fleet had 16,000 assets
truck and electric vehicles are showing how different kinds of with an average age of 12.3 years. Today, TxDOT
fuels could work in the fleet. The division has received grants owns just over 12,000 assets with an average age of
totaling nearly $1.2 million for these projects. 10.9 years. The total cost savings impact thus far is
Another initiative includes the Fleet Excellence program to more than $200 million.
streamline shop operations, improve preventive maintenance Looking forward to the next five years, the
and provide pre-trip inspection training. Equipment shops division is now working to shorten the time
have new tools such as diagnostic laptops to identify between purchasing equipment and putting it into
the field. The annual process to buy 500 to 600
assets can be lengthy, and the division recognizes
this is frustrating for customers.
“The time it takes for a piece of equipment to
be purchased and then put in the field has to be
reduced,” Smith said.
Listening to customers
Many fleet projects are the direct result of
customer feedback.
“All the data and tools we have are valuable,
but they don’t tell us the whole story,” said Dalton
Pratt, Fleet Operations Division director. “We have
to work with our district and division colleagues.”
Johnston agrees that improving TxDOT’s fleet
is a long-term process that requires evaluation
and teamwork.
“The equipment situation may not be where
some would like it, but the progress is being made
Tom Johnston (left) and Steve Shropshire at the San Angelo District.
in a logical method of replacement and addition of
equipment,” he said. “Things improve each year.”
TN September - October 2019 11FEATURE STORY
SHAPING THE FUTURE: YOUNG ENGINEER
TAKES ON MAJOR
IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT IN
AUSTIN DISTRICT
A
seven and a half mile stretch
of road can seem insignificant,
especially in a place as expansive
as Texas, but not if you live, work or travel
from the Bastrop County line to Navarro
Street in Giddings.
“Working in the area office, you get to
interact with the traveling public,” said
Ivan Baker, US 290 East improvements
project manager in Lee County for the
Austin District. “You get to see how your
Ivan Baker with the Austin District. work impacts their daily lives and try to
understand where they are coming from.”
A former TxDOT summer intern and
Bastrop Area office engineering assistant,
Baker is getting his first chance to manage
a project with US 290.
“Even though I’m the project manager,
I know I have quality resources in the
people of my office for me to fall back
on whenever I need help with anything,”
said Baker.
The US 290 East and Giddings project
is one of three construction projects on
this busy highway in the Austin District.
The project, which broke ground at the
end of May, is taking the existing four-
lane undivided highway and turning it into
a four-lane divided roadway.
“By adding a center median and
10-foot outside shoulders on US 290,
this project will significantly improve
the safety of the roadway,” said Baker.
“Cars will no longer have to sit and wait
12 TN September- October 2019FEATURE STORY
You get to see how your work
impacts their daily lives and
try to understand where they
are coming from.
Ivan Baker is project manager for US 290 East
improvements in Lee County.
in live lanes of traffic if they are trying to make a turn,
and there will be a larger buffer between opposing
lanes of travel.”
The project is scheduled for completion in July 2021.
“I always knew I wanted a job in a STEM field,”
said Baker. “I felt like engineering was a good fit since
it involved taking math and science and using them in
a practical setting.”
TxDOT was the next logical step after he acquired
his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the
University of Texas at Austin in 2017. While Baker’s
career is off to a great start — he recently passed the
professional engineer exam — he is most excited about
future opportunities to round out his experience and
expand his network.
“Everyone pretty much treats each other like
they’re family, and I don’t know of too many other
offices quite like that,” said Baker.
TN September - October 2019 13FEATURE STORY
N
NEW
ew blood pressure guidelines released in 2018
by the American College of Cardiology and
the American Heart Association place many
unsuspecting American adults in the category of having
high blood pressure. In fact, 46% of American adults
now find themselves with elevated blood pressure
NORMAL:
readings.
Furthermore, more than 68% of TxDOT employees
who participated in the 2018 biometric screenings had
elevated readings of pre-hypertension or hypertension.
When’s the last time you tracked your blood
pressure? It may be time!
BLOOD PRESSURE
High blood pressure increases the risk of having
a heart attack or heart failure, a stroke, vision loss and
kidney disease. It is called the “silent killer” because
symptoms often go undetected.
What’s the new normal?
GUIDELINES
A systolic reading of 120 (upper number) and/or
diastolic reading (bottom number) above 80 now puts
you in the elevated category whereas in the past, this
reading would not be of concern.
How do I know where I stand?
HAVE CHANGED
Take your blood pressure daily for a couple of
weeks and record the readings. One or two elevated
readings doesn’t mean you have high blood pressure.
Your physician will want to see a series of readings
over time.
14 TN September- October 2019FEATURE STORY
Does TxDOT have blood pressure
monitors available?
Yes! In the fall, the employee wellness
program will be placing at least one blood
pressure monitor in each district office, area
office and maintenance office as well as one
in every division. Talk with your HRD staff to
locate the monitor.
What changes can I make to help
lower my blood pressure?
• Lose weight: If you’re overweight, losing even a
few pounds can make a big difference.
• Increase physical activity. Being active helps
control blood pressure, manages your weight,
makes your heart stronger and helps lower
your stress level. Even a ten minute walk each
day can help.
High blood pressure increases the risk
of having a heart attack or heart failure,
a stroke, vision loss and kidney disease.
• Limit alcohol: If you drink, limit yourself to no
more than two drinks a day for men and no more
than one drink a day for women.
• E at healthfully: Eat fewer processed and
prepared foods that are high in salt. Eating
more fruits and vegetables, whole grains and
leaner proteins will help, too. Visit eatright.org
for more ideas.
• Manage stress: Stress hormones increase your
heart rate and constrict your blood vessels.
Daily physical activity, meditation and changing
the parts of your life you can control are key to
managing stress.
• Quit all tobacco: Smokeless tobacco and cigarette
smoking temporarily elevate blood pressure
and heart rate within the first ten minutes. The
Human Resources Division’s Wellness website
has information on quitting tobacco.
Take the Challenge
Participate in TxDOT’s statewide four-week Julian Estrada uses the blood pressure
monitor at the Riverside campus in Austin.
blood pressure challenge and our annual biometric
screenings in the fall. Check with your local Human
Resources representative to learn how you can
sign-up and have an opportunity to win prizes.
TN September - October 2019 15WHITLOCK IS ADOPT-A-HIGHWAY
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
C
urtis Whitlock, an inspector for the San Angelo District,
was named Adopt-a-Highway’s TxDOT Employee
of the Year at the Keep Texas Beautiful Conference
in June. For the past eight years, Whitlock has led the litter
cleanup efforts of the 454th Mine Clearance Company and the
111th Area Clearance Platoon Guard Units located at the San
Angelo Armory. He has also helped organize litter cleanups for
sections of highway adopted by the San Angelo Area Office and
Maintenance Section and the Whitlock and Williford families.
The Armory cleanups include the Concho River at Loop 306.
“Keeping the river clean was how we got interested in the
Adopt-a-Highway program initially,” Whitlock said.
The platoon members split into three groups to conduct the
cleanups. They always dress in their uniforms including combat
boots, which help protect against the tall grass. After a safety
briefing and risk assessment, the platoon members head out to
pick up trash along their adopted highway. Curtis Whitlock (left) is Adopt-a-Highway’s TxDOT
Employee of the Year. With Catherine Cromer.
Combined, these groups have collected
more than 1.9 tons of litter from three roads
helping to keep San Angelo beautiful.
The San Angelo Area Office and Maintenance Section
employees have adopted a stretch of highway north of their
office on SH 208. Whitlock, who has been with TxDOT for 35
years, helps organize their cleanups as well. Employees and their
family members gather quarterly after work to pick up litter and
then share a meal.
Whitlock is also instrumental in the cleanups for a stretch of
FM 2105 that the Whitlock and Williford families have adopted.
Combined, these groups have collected more than 1.9 tons of
litter from three roads helping to keep San Angelo beautiful.
Whitlock, a military veteran, credits his experiences in
Afghanistan and Iraq for his dedication to cleaning up TxDOT’s
rights of way.
“The countryside and roadways were littered with piles
of trash that posed a danger for my soldiers,” Whitlock said.
“Insurgents would plant improvised explosive devices in the
The San Angelo Area Office and Maintenance Section
trash piles. Many returning soldiers see the trash alongside our employees work to clean up their adopted highway.
roadways as a risk of getting blown up, even though they are back
in America.”
16 TN September- October 2019FEATURE
FEATURE STORY
NOISE SOLUTION FOR ZOO
SHOWS TxDOT IS ABOUT MORE THAN JUST ROADS
TxDOT biologists come up with temporary fix
O
n a hot summer day in 2016, TXDOT and the Dallas
Zoo staff meandered around the zoo looking at all
the animals in their comfy living quarters. However,
TxDOT was about to interrupt some of the peace and quiet
the animals enjoyed with its $666 million Texas Clear Lanes
congestion relief project next to the zoo.
The 11-mile Southern Gateway road improvement project
on I-35E would begin in a little less than a year. The project
will bring the aging roadway up to today’s standards. With
construction drawing near, time was of the essence to come
up with a plan to keep the zoo’s animals comfortable.
A stretch of the project butted up against the northern
section of the zoo. As public outreach progressed, zoo staff
voiced concerns about the effect of construction noise
and dust on the zoo animals and visitors. Noise can have
Today, TxDOT continues to meet
regularly with the zoo staff and looks
for solutions to minimize or prevent
pollution from construction and protect
the animals and their visitors.
adverse effects on animals and people. Zoo staff pointed out
that certain animals are very sensitive to noise and need
protection during construction. Leslie Mirise with the Dallas District
In agreement with the zoo, staff from the Dallas District —
including administration, environmental, public information
and the design-build project team — got involved. Leslie Environmental Affairs Division, the project team determined
Mirise, environmental biologist in Dallas, and Stirling the temporary noise barrier achieved sound transmission and
Robertson, environmental specialist with the Environmental noise reduction.
Affairs Division in Austin, came up with a simple solution Both biologists believe this is the first time TxDOT has
for a temporary barrier to reduce noise pollution and dust provided such a solution. Other districts are now asking how
to protect the zoo’s cultural resources and the tranquil the portable temporary walls work.
experience of visiting the zoo. Previous noise analysis allowed permanent noise walls;
“The zoo couldn’t readily move entire structures, so however, permanent walls for the project will not be built
we had to come up with a method that would keep them until 2021.
whole,” said Mirise. Today, TxDOT continues to meet regularly with the zoo staff
Robertson agrees. Mirise researched temporary noise wall and looks for solutions to minimize or prevent pollution from
options for this unusual situation. In coordination with the construction and protect the animals and their visitors.
TN September - October 2019 17TxDOT IS DIGGING INTO THE PAST
I
n June of this year, TxDOT archeologists participated participants found at least twice that number and many
in a voluntary week-long investigation of the Palo Duro portions of the park remain to be surveyed.
Canyon State Park in Amarillo. The Texas Archeological TxDOT’s own Kevin Hanselka was this year’s field school
Society partnered with Texas Parks and Wildlife to host a field director. Teams explored more than 2,000 acres of park
school for archeologists throughout the state. Participants had property with excavations on five archeological sites within
the opportunity to survey, excavate and conduct lab work on the canyon.
the second largest canyon in the country. TAS was founded in 1928 to bring professionals and
Palo Duro Canyon encompasses 27,128 acres and is non-professionals together in a collegial atmosphere. The
approximately 120 miles long and more than 800 feet organization promotes archeological exploration, research
deep in some locations. “Palo Duro” is the Spanish word and publication while bringing awareness to Texas’ heritage
for hard wood, and historians estimate that early Spanish resources. TxDOT archeologist Jason Barrett serves as the
explorers were likely the first to discover the canyon. The current TAS president and is currently the lead worker for the
state park officially opened in 1934 while the Civilian Archeological Studies Branch.
Conservation Corps continued to cultivate the park for the TxDOT’s 11 archeologists review more than 400 projects
following five years. per year. The department routinely looks for archeological
The TAS Field School offers activities and learning sites before constructing projects throughout the state to
opportunities for all ages. It provides an opportunity for remain compliant with state and federal environmental
TxDOT archeologists to interact with other professional and laws. Thanks to the leadership of Hanselka and Barrett and
avocational archeologists in Texas. Prior to the 2019 TAS Field volunteer efforts from other TxDOT archeologists, we can dig
School, the canyon had 41 known archeological sites. School a little deeper into Texas’ history.
The Texas Archeological Society hosted a field school for
archeologists in Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Amarillo. Photo
courtesy of TAS.
18 TN September- October 2019NEW CAPABILITIES
COMING IN SECOND
TxDOTCONNECT RELEASE
T
xDOT’s deployment of the first
release of TxDOTCONNECT,
completed in April, gave more
than 7,500 internal users access to
the new, web-based system to deliver
transportation programs and projects.
With so many internal users who can
view project data and use that data to
make decisions, TxDOT is advancing its
ability to plan, manage and measure its
transportation programs.
The project has gone so well that the
TxDOTCONNECT Project Team was
recently recognized with the Grit Award
for its work and there are more good
things to come.
At the end of September, the agency The TxDOTCONNECT Project Team was recognized with the Grit Award for its work
will launch the second release of replacing the legacy DCIS system with a web-based application: (l to r) Erika Kemp,
Cassie Jordan, Brian Barth and Commissioner Laura Ryan.
TxDOTCONNECT in two deployments.
The first deployment will include new
functionality for the Engineer’s Estimate and edit the Engineer’s Estimate, modify and add to pre-populated
and Bid Item Management. The second specifications, seal the Engineer’s Estimate and quickly export
deployment will enable Right of Way standard reports.
functionality in January 2020. In addition, TxDOT’s external partners, including metropolitan
The September deployment will feature planning organizations and the Federal Highway Administration as well
multiple new ways to view information as consultants and contractors will have access to the system with the
in the Engineer’s Estimate during the second release. This high level of visibility into projects and data will help
preparation stages, accommodating the TxDOT staff and external partners work together more efficiently as they
different ways that people like to work. build more than $76 billion of transportation projects for the state.
End users will be able to create, review To learn more about the system, visit TxDOTCONNECT on Crossroads.
TN September - October 2019 19SHOWING KIDS AROUND THE WORKPLACE
R
ecently TxDOT division employees brought their
children to work as part of the Take Our Daughters
and Sons to Work Day Foundation event.
The 2019 theme was “Workforce Development for All.”
Children ages 8-14 gathered at the Riverside Campus in
Austin for a half-day of learning about TxDOT. They wore
safety vests and got an inside look from TxDOT employees
about the importance of work zone safety, bike safety, bridge
building and work life balance.
Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day encourages
girls and boys to dream about their career without gender
limitations and to think imaginatively about their family, work
and community lives.
The session opened with a Stretch and Flex. The children
got to build a bridge out of paper and used pennies to test
how much the bridge would hold. They also learned about
how concrete that is used to build the bridges is tested.
They met Darryl the Barrel, the Don’t mess with Texas
mascot and tried their skills at a distracted walking obstacle
course. There was also a selfie booth to take pictures with
their parents.
Many districts also participated in this annual event.
They met Darryl the Barrel, the Don’t mess
with Texas mascot and tried their skills at
a distracted walking obstacle course.
Kids see TxDOT at work in Austin.
20 TN September- October 2019BREAKROOM NAMED
TO HONOR HALFORD IN DALLAS
Mo Bur (left) and James Pate (right) present Julia Halford
(center) with a sign that will mark her own parking spot
at the Dallas District campus.
A
lot has changed at TxDOT since Julia Halford, giving and kindness. It comes from her heart and we
office technician with the Dallas District, first appreciate her very much.”
set up shop in the Lubbock District in 1972. More than 100 people came to the ceremony to thank
She moved to the Dallas District in early 2002. Wherever Halford for all she does to keep the district moving.
she is, Halford’s dedication, kindness and professionalism Halford was taken aback by the surprise dedication.
have remained consistent and reassuring to all her “I appreciate every one of you guys and God bless you,”
colleagues throughout the decades. Her warmth and love Halford said. “My parents told us if you are going to do
have left an indelible mark on the department. a job, do it with all you have.”
To recognize one of the true stalwarts of TxDOT, Honoring Halford also meant recognizing all the little
the Dallas District recently renamed the break room things she does, including her famous baked goodies.
in the newly remodeled administration building the They are the stuff of legend at TxDOT.
Julia Halford Break Room. “Everybody is important to the organization,” said
“Julia loves people she never met,” said Dallas District former District Engineer Kelly Selman, one of nine
Engineer Mo Bur, who welcomed a packed house to the district engineers to have had the pleasure to work with
ceremony on June 21. “She makes people feel better Julia. “This is a great honor to Julia who is a perfect
about themselves. She has an amazing amount of grace, example of service — she loves to serve other people.”
TN September - October 2019 21MORE O
ne of the more important bills that passed during the
140-day session was, of course, the state’s biennial
budget. Of the $250 billion that state leaders approved,
TxDOT was appropriated more than $30.7 billion over the two-
EMPLOYEES year cycle.
Some of the efforts started in the 2017 legislative session came
to fruition this session, such as a request for more employees and
funding for the new Austin campus.
AND FUNDING In 2017, TxDOT asked permission to hire 627 employees and
got approval for half that amount. This session, state leaders
authorized the agency to hire the remaining 313 employees.
FOR NEW
Also last session, the legislature approved funding to prepare
the site of the new consolidated campus, a 49-acre tract of
land in southeast Austin. This session, funding for the building,
warehouse, lab and a parking structure was approved. Work on the
AUSTIN
new campus will be able to continue.
Lawmakers also extended the expiration of Proposition 1 to 2034,
or fiscal year 2035. That is good news, since Prop 1 gives additional
spending power for the state’s transportation program by depositing
CAMPUS
oil and gas severance taxes into the State Highway Fund.
Another item of interest was House Bill 2830 which allows
TxDOT to enter into six design-build contracts in a biennium,
an increase from three per fiscal year. The design-build process
HIGHLIGHT has been very well received, so this legislation provides welcome
flexibility to the agency.
Also, Senate Bill 537 passed which allows TxDOT to purchase
food and beverages for employees who respond to emergencies
LEGISLATIVE or disasters.
This is great news for those employees on the front lines
when Texans need them most. The impetus for this legislation
SESSION
came after hearing from the many employees who responded
to Hurricane Harvey and other recent major events about what
would make their efforts more effective.
Lawmakers addressed the increasing incidents of damage to
bridges caused by the height of the vehicle. House Bill 799 creates
a Class B misdemeanor for the owner of the vehicle who is not
in compliance with all applicable licenses and permits that
causes damages to these structures.
For a more in-depth review, check out the Summary
of Enacted Legislation on txdot.gov.
22 TN September- October 2019O
WORKPLACE
ver recent years, workplace violence has increasingly become
a concern for employers and employees alike. In response
to these concerns, all employees are now required to take
workplace violence training every two years. The mandatory training
identifies prohibited behaviors and teaches employees that TxDOT
treats all workplace violence seriously.
VIOLENCE
Workplace violence involves more than physical altercations or
assault. Even threats of violence, such as comments that someone
should “watch their back” or making gestures that indicate anger
such as punching a wall or gesturing to hit someone, are prohibited by
TxDOT’s workplace violence policy.
TRAINING
There are no acceptable justifications for making threatening
comments or acting violently. Claiming that it was a joke or provoked
by another employee is not an excuse. Even a single incident may
violate agency policy and lead to disciplinary action up to and including
termination of employment.
All employees are expected to treat coworkers, business partners
RAISES
and the public with respect. Condescending comments, uncooperative
behavior, being disruptive, waving a finger or hand in someone’s face,
slamming doors, rude gestures, yelling and other disrespectful conduct
is prohibited and may escalate to more threatening behaviors.
While it is unlikely employees will be involved in workplace violence,
it is important to know what to do. Safety always comes first. Leave
CONDUCT
a situation immediately if feeling threatened or in danger. If a person
is angry but does not seem to pose a danger, consider the following tips:
• Keep distance between you and the other person. Position yourself
at a right angle instead of directly in front of the person to avoid the
perception that you are confronting the person.
• Stay calm and speak in a steady voice.
AWARENESS
• Listen. Showing an interest in the other person may help diffuse
the situation.
• Do not make physical contact.
• Do not block the individual’s exit.
• Have an exit strategy.
Employees should immediately report all
threats or acts of violence to their supervisor,
human resources representative or workplace
violence manager. More information and
a list of workplace violence managers are
available on the Human Resources Division’s
Crossroads page, under the HR Programs
tab. Reports may also be made by email to
WorkplaceViolence@txdot.gov.
TN September - October 2019 23Transportation
I am a… Engineer
B
ryson Lawrence, transportation engineer
with the Wichita Falls District, began his Why did you choose to have a career in
career at TxDOT as a summer employee transportation?
in his hometown of Vernon. After high school, he I chose to have a career in transportation
got his engineering degree at Midwestern State to provide a great service to the people in my
University in Wichita Falls. He returned to TxDOT area. I have always considered myself a service-
after working in the manufacturing industry and orientated person, and after working in the
has held several positions in the Wichita Falls industry out of college and then coming to
area. He recently got his professional engineering TxDOT, I can truly say I am doing so much more
license and began working in advance planning. good than I could ever imagine.
Bryson has three kids, Aydan, Joshua and
Destany. He and his wife, Jenafer, recently bought
What is one of your proudest
their first house in nearby Burkburnett. The family accomplishments while at TxDOT?
enjoys going to movies, swimming in their pool and I was able to get my professional engineer
playing basketball. license. I am just beginning as a P.E. and am
excited to start developing and managing many
Tell us about your role as a TxDOT projects to come.
transportation engineer and what kind
of projects you work on.
My role as a transportation engineer consists
of managing consultant contracts and schematic
design for future projects. As a designer, I became
adept at using the new 3D design software and
plan on using that knowledge to produce detailed
alternative designs for projects.
What are some of your favorite hobbies
outside of work?
Outside of work I keep very busy with my
music. For many years I have performed both
alone and with a band. I host open mic nights
at a local coffee house almost every week and
play acoustic shows on the weekends. My full
band has played all around the area and even
Oklahoma City. I also regularly lend my talents
to local churches in Windthorst and at my alma
mater, Midwestern State University.
What do you like most about working in
the Wichita Falls District?
I enjoy the work family. I have met some of my
best friends throughout my time here at TxDOT.
Since I grew up in the area, I get to interact with
family and friends and provide a great service for
the whole area as well.
24 TN September- October 2019Bryson Lawrence
Transportation Engineer
Wichita Falls District
TN September - October 2019 25E M P L O Y E E Konnie Washington
Maintenance Support Technician, Lubbock District
Konnie Washington, maintenance support technician for the
Tulia maintenance section, recently celebrated her seventh
work anniversary with TxDOT in September. She manages
the day-to-day operations at the office and assists both the
assistant and supervisor at the section. She enjoys all kinds of
sports and loves traveling and playing with her grandchildren.
Washington says she feels very blessed to work in such a
family-oriented organization.
Konnie Washington
What’s the best part about being a maintenance
support technician?
Getting to work with the crew and learn what they do and
interact with other maintenance support techs.
If you wrote a memoir about your life, what would
the title be and why?
The Sunshine Girl. I’d portray myself as a very cheerful, happy-
go-lucky person with a positive attitude. I strive to look for the
best in all situations.
What five words best describe you and why?
Friendly: I’ve been told I don’t know a stranger.
Positive: I strive to maintain a positive attitude for work and
life in general.
Helpful: I do what I can to assist in most cases.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where
Loyal: Once I am committed to something, I am committed would you go?
wholeheartedly. I would love to go to Ireland. I think it is a beautiful place in
pictures and I could only imagine what it looks like in person.
Compassionate: I am compassionate toward my co-workers
and people in general. If you could live in any TV show, what would it be?
The one TV show that comes to my mind is Happy Days.
If you could interview one person from history,
who would it be and why? Who would you want to play you if a movie was
Anne Frank. It would be amazing to learn of her trials and made about your life?
how she overcame them all. Kate Hudson or Julia Roberts.
What is something people are always surprised to What is something on your bucket list you can’t
learn about you? wait to check off?
That my three kids were spaced out about 10 years apart Going on a cruise to a wonderful white sanded beach with
from each other. crystal blue waters.
26 TN September- October 2019Where Am I?
Here is a photo depicting an identifiable landmark you may have
Identified:
seen in your travels around Texas. If you think you know what Congratulations to our first identifier Pierce Robson (BRY).
this is a photo of or know where it was taken, send an email Last edition’s photo featured the restored square-rigger
to TNideas@txdot.gov. Deadline for submissions is Oct. 8. Elissa, which moors next to the Texas Seaport Museum in
the Port of Galveston.
Others correctly identifying the photo were Hector Siller
(PHR), Buddy Hudson (MNT), Cindy Broyles (LFK),
Chris Cowen (BRY), Michelle Milliard (HOU), Felice
Herrera-Kish (HRD), Alan Ainsworth (DAL), Linda Englert
(HOU), Roland Marshall (LFK), Bradley Peikert (BRY),
Walter Barfield (AUS), Carrie Sanford (PRO), Ed Mayle
(AVN), Ashley Yunkun (MTD), Lorena Martinez (TRV),
Nancy Leggio (DAL), Lennerd Byrd (ODA), Maurice Maness
(BRY), Jeffery Martin (FTW), Karen Ashley (YKM),
Ladonna Waters (BMY), Joseph Hagler (LFK), Sandra Chipley
(DES), Peggy Miller (TRV), Charles Roberts (AUS),
Tammie Duhon (BMT), Bill Mallini (HOU), Carol Davis
(HOU), Peter Matranga (HOU), Barbara Mills (LFK),
Christopher Bishop (AUS), Jan Robbins (BRY), Daniel Brashear
(BRY), Jeremy Gonzalez (PHR), Otto Maresh (retired) and
Richard Sliva (retired).
UPCOMING TxDOT EVENTS
Sept. 2 Sept. 26 Sept. 30 - Oct. 1 Oct. 9 Oct. 31
Labor Day Texas Transportation Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur Texas Transportation
(Agency Closed) Commission Meeting (Optional Holiday) (Optional Holiday) Commission Meeting
(Austin) (Austin)
TN September - October 2019 27MILESTONES
JULY SERVICE AWARDS
2
DISTRICTS HOUSTON SAN ANTONIO FLEET OPERATIONS
AMARILLO 30 Wanda J. Davis 25 John C. Ferguson Jr. 15 Donald J. Whitesell
Stephen L. Leffingwell Michael J. Shelton 5 Joshua R. Fischer
30 Joe M. Armstrong 25 Bruce Rychlik 20 Jessica B. Castiglione Christopher B. Holcomb
Thomas E. Nagel 20 Laura E. Finner Logan C. Green Terry H. Lindsey III
5 Carl D. Bowman Farshad Shafipour 15 David S. Henke David M. Uriegas
ATLANTA Ba Trinh Eric R. Otero
HUMAN RESOURCES
20 Keith J. Johnson 15 Gary R. Asbell Lucky R. Pruitt Jr.
Norma L. Ayala 5 Steven Rodriguez 25 Aurora B. Morales
15 Thomas S. Campbell Lee R. Bryan Virgil R. Weems II 5 Sophie Y. Riojas
Elias M. Perez
Timothy K. Conrad
TYLER INFORMATION
AUSTIN Khanh N. Lam MANAGEMENT
20 David R. Baroi David R. Lazaro 30 William E. Fletcher
20 Paul D. Schneider 5 Cornelius J. Engelbrecht
David P. Harrah Juan M. Mata
15 Stephanie A. Pena Bryce M. Shuler 5 Randal D. Rumfield INTERNAL AUDIT
5 Christiana M. Astarita Kenneth R. Walker WICHITA FALLS 5 Cynthia Scheick
Colton R. Chaney 10 Terrance George 25 Michael D. Beaver
Morgan K. Napier MAINTENANCE
Rhonda C. Dietrich 20 Lee W. Adams 15 Matthew C. Heinze
Wendy J. Fields 5 Angela K. Leach-Jayroe Jimmy R. Sanderson
Robert C. Mata
BEAUMONT 10 Stephanie D. Manry MATERIALS & TESTS
25 Bruce A. Myrick LAREDO YOAKUM 35 Richard A. Garcia
15 Elvin D. Land 25 Elia H. Coe 20 Kristine F. Santos
15 John C. Kopecky
5 Samantha J. Harris Sabino S. Salinas
5 Donald E. Mikeska OCCUPATIONAL
20 Ana A. Duncan SAFETY
BRYAN 15 Andres A. Farias
Joe C. Morrow IV
25 Connie J. Flickinger 5 Jorge A. Vasquez 5 Jeff Chennault
Kerry D. Jones DIVISIONS PEPS
LUBBOCK
David Polk III AVIATION 25 Michelle N. Veale
20 Walter J. Breaux 15 Karen S. Bradshaw 10 James D. Hammonds Larry H. Wenger
David E. Maresh LUFKIN 5 Travis H. Zachary 5 Arturo A. Salinas
Wesley B. Reeder
20 Earnest Minor Jr. CIVIL RIGHTS PROCUREMENT
CHILDRESS 15 Joshua A. Bobbitt 5 Carlos A. Balderas 15 Jessica K. Johnson
5 Annabel Jurado Jeremy D. King
5 D’Ana R. Arzia
CONSTRUCTION
Thomas W. Kajs ODESSA Lauren D. Jacobson
15 Jennifer Keller
CORPUS CHRISTI 20 Daniel Aguirre 5 Elizabeth N. Stevenson PUBLIC
25 Ethen D. Swisher 5 Amy E. Hall TRANSPORTATION
5 Carlos Garcia Joe N. Villalobos CONTRACT SERVICES
15 Kenneth A. Stewart 5 Carter E. Sieber
Sarah Sawyer PARIS
DESIGN RIGHT OF WAY
DALLAS 25 Herman D. Andrus
5 Bradley K. Moody 5 Hilary G. Garnish 25 Guy R. Sledge
25 Douglas D. Cathcart 20 Robert R. Juarez Jr.
20 Daniel Garcia PHARR ENVIRONMENTAL 15 Gustavo A. Elizondo Jr.
Jason B. Hyde
15 Shomari D. Douglas 25 Jesus M. Hernandez AFFAIRS SUPPORT SERVICES
Eduardo G. Paredes
Roel Silva 20 Matthew C. Davis 20 David O. Dean
10 James T. Campbell Graciela G. Soto 5 Christine M. Bergren Toby W. Rackley
5 Nolan D. Del Hierro 20 Arnulfo Rodriguez
5 Samantha R. Lozano FINANCIAL TRANSPORTATION
Ying-Hsuan L. Marshall
Christopher B. Myers MANAGEMENT PLANNING &
EL PASO Robert Peacock Jr. 30 Sulema Lascano PROGRAMMING
20 Margarita Montes Israel Rodriguez 20 Theresa A. Helke 10 Shana Thomas
15 Jeffrey D. Penalosa 15 Lynna M. Galyean
SAN ANGELO Matthew M. Walajtys TRAVEL INFORMATION
FORT WORTH 10 Terry J. Capps 5 Darlene L. Bradley 35 Mary E. Ulrich Jackson
25 Baldemar Galindo 5 Douglas F. Greer Megan L. Lowary 30 Martha L. Martin
Patrick G. Quarles Jr. Shriti K. Thapa 5 Christina O. Rone
20 Anthony E. White Sarah K. Venable
15 Gerry L. Stone
5 Christopher L. Askew
James W. Harrison
28 TN September- October 20192019
AUGUST SERVICE AWARDS ODESSA
5 Glow-Ann Paye-Beitel
COMMUNICATIONS
20 Michael D. Peters
5 Kristina R. Hadley
DISTRICTS DALLAS PARIS
30 Rodney Douglas 30 Jason Dale COMPLIANCE
ABILENE James R. Pate 5 James S. Alexander 5 Frances A. Hoel
45 Patrick D. McKennon 25 Maria Del Rocio Pittman Kevin M. Brown
5 Cody A. Carter CONSTRUCTION
20 Isaac J. Green PHARR
Jose Casarez Ronald S. Ledbetter
5 Aubrey K. Badoe
Roger C. Crawford 15 Paul G. Edwards 25 Pedro R. Alvarez DESIGN
Brandon Criswell 20 Jose L. Garcia
Sarah E. Rains
5 Ramon Flores III 5 Mark A. Baker
Jacob B. Dillard 5 Don P. Fitzgerald Jennifer N. Loa
Charles D. Kirkland Matthew L. Garnett
Kurt D. Mahoney David N. Orloff
Sean Lee Samuel Garza
Cary J. Roberts EL PASO Johnny I. Gomez ENVIRONMENTAL
Kyle M. Terry 25 Nestor Gomez Mario J. Jorge AFFAIRS
AMARILLO 15 Arturo R. Estrada Jr. Javier Juarez
25 Bobby L. Jones
10 Sergio A. Proano SAN ANGELO
5 David A. Louallen 5 Hector Alcantara Nava FINANCIAL
Jose M. Michel Joshua P. Holguin
15 Jesse F. De La Garza MANAGEMENT
5 Christopher D. Wagner 25 Erma Windham
ATLANTA David J. Ogas
Keith P. Zack
20 Randal L. Davidson Claudia I. Ortega 20 Araceli Sanchez
Tim A. Guyer FORT WORTH SAN ANTONIO 15 Nora N. Miller
Dusty A. Rudel 25 Juan Vasquez 30 Jose M. Ibarra Jr. FLEET OPERATIONS
15 David K. Gunn 20 Johnathon L. Cooper 20 Frances T. Merecka 30 Jerry W. Florence
John M. Mars Kevin R. Seider
Michael D. Flaming Juan N. Velasco
5 Barbara J. Cordell 15 James D. Doty 15 Roberto Cardenas 15 Danny E. Rodriguez
Rene R. Fernandez
AUSTIN Deanni D. Gonzalez
Andres Garza
Darah S. Waldrip
25 Grace M. Johnson 5 Jimmy Barger 5 Chris T. Grabarkievtz
Rolando Gonzales
Casey W. Fain David A. Sanchez
15 Michael M. Schneider Chad R. Hartmann
Gregory W. Stephens HOUSTON Johnny E. Hernandez GENERAL COUNSEL
10 Andrew W. Blair 30 Frank D. Mayfield Mark J. Lutz 15 Richard S. O’Connell
5 Kelly A. Brautigan 25 Darrell W. Halik James P. Meuth Jr.
5 Eddie E. Mercado INFORMATION
BEAUMONT Vincent D. Hubbert
MANAGEMENT
5 Corliss R. Crawford 20 Magdy F. Kozman Lorenzo Zuniga Jr.
Hui Shen 5 Daniel J. Teczar
TYLER
BROWNWOOD 15 Dilip D. Goradia MAINTENANCE
20 Billy R. Taylor
5 Douglas D. Drury Tar-Hsi Huang
15 Bradley A. Trahan 30 Dennis W. Berryhill
Darby W. Kubeczka
Matthew B. Reed
Vanesha W. Nicholson
5 Kristen B. Droptini 5 Travis J. Jez
BRYAN Jeff A. Scherer
Douglas A. Quigg II Melissa L. Kennedy
Guss C. Searcy
20 Jerry E. Dvorak John D. Stobb WACO
Julie V. Mask 5 Justin K. Cheung 40 Maria G. Chouinard MATERIALS & TESTS
Mark A. Poage Soojun Ha 15 Henry R. Bush 15 Isidro M. Cerda Jr.
Robert A. Schwartz Dennis P. Shook 5 Jose I. Escobar
15 Rigoberto Arjon Mark S. Sinden WICHITA FALLS
10 Curtis W. Ruemke Jr. Michael Vargas 30 James R. Cantwell PEPS
CHILDRESS 20 Mary B. Slayden 20 Mary L. Menzel
LAREDO 15 Martin L. Rodin
30 Terry G. Simpson 25 James M. Deliganis Jr. YOAKUM 5 Lori Wilson
CORPUS CHRISTI 20 Nancy L. Cordero 25 Dennis Cano
15 Herminia Cantu 20 Robert J. Cruz PROCUREMENT
30 Daniel L. Kelley Jose A. Guevara Phillip E. Garcia 5 Ana M. Alvarez
Gertrude A. Stewart Hubbard
LUBBOCK 15 James W. Grahmann SUPPORT SERVICES
20 Freeman E. Bland Jr. Amanda L. Idlett
Juan M. Constante 15 Bryan H. Davis 25 Pamela D. Hinton
Rudy E. Reyna 20 Jill M. Hogan
15 Silvestre W. Gallardo LUFKIN DIVISIONS 5 Frederic O. Lewis
Adam W. Sprague 25 Sam A. Hankla ADMINISTRATION Alex Suniga Jr.
10 Dortha R. Grimes 20 Catherine D. Loerch 15 Robin A. Carter
5 David B. Dyer Jr. 15 Dennis Wooten TRAFFIC SAFETY
Adan Leos 5 Matthew A. Buckingham AVIATION 5 David C. Tidwell
Andrew W. Corbett 15 Mohamad Abdulkader
Christopher L. Murphy TRANSPORTATION
James C. Henagan BRIDGE
Ngan K. Nguyen PLANNING &
Cathy J. Pruitt 25 Christy L. Bird PROGRAMMING
20 Agata J. La Rue 20 Esther M. Colvin
TN September - October 2019 29You can also read
