Chapter 1: Introduction

OVERVIEW

This report documents the research approach and results of NCHRP Project 20-44(51), Developing Training Materials to Implement Context Classifications. This work involved identifying state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) seeking to implement context classifications, and to receive from these DOTs feedback on training materials to support their implementation efforts (Task 1). Three state DOTs were selected, and information was collected from each to identify the extent to which it had implemented context classifications as well as potential opportunities to do so (Task 2). The research team used the findings from these activities to develop training materials and resources (Task 3), which they presented at a series of in-person workshops with each of the three state DOTs (Task 4). Following the workshops, the research team facilitated follow-up meetings with the state DOTs individually (Task 5) and then together as a peer group (Task 6) to understand progress made on implementation activities. The research team then created a webinar (Task 7) to advertise the final updated training materials (Task 8), which were updated based on lessons learned from previous tasks.

ORGANIZATION OF FINAL REPORT

This report is organized into nine chapters. The final training materials are provided as a standalone deliverable submitted as part of Task 8: Final Training Materials & Final Report. This chapter introduces the project and recaps its objectives and tasks from the request for proposals. A brief description of the report’s other chapters is provided below:

• Chapter 2 presents the findings from the project kickoff and state DOT selection from Task 1 of the project.
• Chapter 3 includes a summary of state DOT information on implementing context classification, gathered as part of Task 2.
• Chapter 4 summarizes the findings of the in-person workshops held with the three state DOTs as part of Task 3 and Task 4.
• Chapter 5 highlights lessons learned from the action plan follow-up meetings in Task 5 and Task 6.
• Chapter 6 provides an overview of the webinar prepared in Task 7 to publicize the training materials.
• Chapter 7 provides an overview of the final training materials developed in Task 8 and how they were influenced by previous tasks.
• Chapter 8 includes a summary of common challenges and how an agency may approach them.
• Chapter 9 shares conclusions and opportunities for future research.

RESEARCH PROBLEM STATEMENT

Material in this section is taken from the project’s Request for Proposal (RFP).

Background

The seventh edition of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) publication A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets (Green Book) introduces a broader set of land use classifications, beyond the traditional “urban” and “rural,” for state transportation officials. NCHRP Project 15-72, Identification of AASHTO Context Classifications developed practical information to help state, regional, and local practitioners identify the appropriate context classification(s) for an area or a transportation project. Critical questions of NCHRP Project 15-72 were: (1) What are the context(s)? (2) How will the context(s) change spatially and temporally? and (3) What are the implications for the various travel modes? The final report was published as NCHRP Research Report 1022, Context Classification Application: A Guide.

Additionally, NCHRP Project 20-68A, Scan 21-02, “Leading Approaches to Implementing Context-Based Classification of Roadways in Planning and Design” describes the experiences of states implementing the context classifications into their planning and design processes. The scan’s focus was to identify best practices and lessons learned that may be valuable to others working on implementing context-based classifications.

Applying context classifications to benefit all users may seem complex to those who have not applied them previously. State DOTs need training materials and resources to support this.

Objectives

The objective of this research is to develop training materials and resources for the nationwide implementation of context classifications by state DOTs. These materials should be flexible enough to integrate context classifications into different processes at multiple state DOTs.

Research Approach

The research objectives for NCHRP Project 20-44(51) are being addressed through the following tasks. The task approach and objectives were refined as part of Task 1: Amplified Research Plan (ARP) and are summarized in this section below.

Task 1. Amplified Research Plan and Agency Identification

Submit the amplified research plan. Identify state DOTs that are interested in applying context classifications but need help implementing them into their policies and guidance. Select three state DOTs to participate in this NCHRP research effort, and identify external stakeholders who may need to be involved in the implementation activities. Prepare Memorandum Number 1 summarizing these efforts, which is further discussed in Chapter 1.

Task 2. Implementation Information Collection

For the three selected state DOTs identified in Task 1, collect the information needed to implement context classifications. Key elements include: a) identify champion and assemble core team for each selected state DOT; b) conduct stakeholder interviews with core team members and state DOT leadership; c) survey project implementors and agency partners; and d) summarize the current state of practice for each selected state DOT. Prepare Memorandum Number 2 summarizing the information gathered, which is further discussed in Chapter 2.

Task 3. Workshop Materials

Prepare a workshop agenda and outline based on the information gathered as part of Task 2.

Develop additional workshop materials, including a pre-workshop webinar for attendees, interactive training sessions, as well as facilitation of core team work sessions during the workshops.

Task 4. Workshops and Interim Report

Conduct the series of in-person workshops for each of the three selected DOTs. Update workshop training materials for a national audience. Prepare Interim Report 1 by summarizing the results and key findings of Tasks 1–4.

Refrain from working on the remaining tasks without NCHRP panel approval.

Task 5. Action Plan Follow-Up

Approximately six months after holding the workshops, hold virtual meetings with each state DOT individually to review progress made toward implementation and to identify lessons learned. Summarize the key takeaways and identify key lessons learned that can be used to shape the webinar and training materials in Memorandum Number 3 (“Action Plan Implementation Results”).

Task 6. Virtual Peer Exchange

Plan and conduct one combined virtual peer exchange with the champion(s) from the three selected state DOTs to get updates from each of them on key successes, lessons learned, and overall progress made toward implementation. Prepare Memorandum Number 4 by summarize the key takeaways from the virtual peer exchange, identifying key lessons learned for refining webinar and workshop materials.

Task 7. Webinar Materials

Develop materials for a one-hour webinar for a national audience. This webinar should publicize the context classification implementation training materials, resources and share lessons learned from this research effort. Include with the webinar materials an agenda, PowerPoint presentation