Digital terrain models (DTMs) are 3D models of the ground surface showing natural features such as ridges and breaklines. TRB hosted a webinar on Monday, November 15, 2021 from 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern that discussed current strategies state departments of transportation (DOTs) use to employ DTMs in constructing highway projects. Presenters identified how to use DTMs and portray benefits and challenges. They also discussed lessons DOTs learned from using DTMs.

This webinar features research from NCHRP Synthesis Report 560: Practices for Construction-Ready Digital Terrain Models.

The slides are linked in the meeting materials below. Click here to view the recording.

Webinar agenda and presenters

1. State of the practice with using DTM in highway construction projects: Hala Nassereddine, University of Kentucky
2. DOT experiences with DTM: Gabe Dadi, University of Kentucky
3. Case study of DOT using DTM: Kyle Ince, Ohio DOT
4. Question and answer session: Moderated by Gabe Dadi, University of Kentucky

The first 60 minutes of the webinar will be for presentations and the final 30 minutes will be reserved for audience questions.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Discuss how DTMs impact project delivery
2. Identify examples of DOTs leveraging project efficiencies with DTMs

Professional Development Hours

Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.