2025 ACEC-NH & NHDOT Technical Exchange Conference

Session 4A: Using UAVs for Environmental Resource Surveys, Planning, and Construction
Speakers: Brian Easler, NHDOT; Jason Leavitt, NHDOT; Jennifer Riordan, GM2
- This presentation shows how a UAV was utilized for a bat bridge assessment in Rhode Island. The Washington Bridge carries I-195 over the Seekonk River between Providence and East Providence. An assessment to identify the potential presence of bats was required as part of the NEPA documentation and permitting process. This large bridge has multiple spans over both land and water which made access difficult. A small drone fitted with a camera was used to inspect areas that could not be easily viewed with binoculars.

This presentation shows how a UAV was utilized to collect storm damage to New Hampshire’s sea wall. New Hampshire’s coastline has approximately 4.5 miles of earthen seawall that was damaged in a winter storm event. A drone fitted with a LiDAR sensor was used to collect data that was used to create a virtual model of the damaged seawall. That data was then used to developed cross sections of the damaged seawall that could be compared to the original construction plans and cross sections to determine the extent of the damages and to quantify the material missing that would need to be replaced to repair the seawall.

Session 4B: Stormwater Treatment Basin I-pad Inspection for use in Design
Speaker: Mark Hemmerlein, NHDOT
- This presentation reviews the NHDOT’s Stormwater Treatment Facilities inspection program. These facilities, like any other roadway related infrastructure, require periodic inspections and maintenance to prolong their functional integrity, longevity and treatment performance. The program is part of the NHDOT’s Asset Management initiatives to rely on
preventative maintenance and avoid or minimize larger maintenance or corrective actions that
may result from deferred action. The all-electronic inspection tool facilitated by the used of ERSI software load on an iPad. The condition rating: good, fair, or poor, are assessed for six conditions related to 1) Sediment accumulation, 2) Trash, 3) Erosion, 4) Structure condition, 5) Flow, and 6) Vegetation. The field information including pictures can be upload via data cell service and viewed in various desktop applications and dashboard.

Session 4C: Incorporating Stakeholder Input: Multi-Benefit Stream Crossing Prioritization Modeling Updates
Speakers: Polly Crocker, NHDOE; Koorosh Asadifakhr, UNH Civil & Environmental Engineering Dept.
- This presentation reviews the pilot UNH Stream Crossing Prioritization Model, intended to help state, local, and engineering communities prioritize replacement projects with multiple benefits. It covers the stakeholder engagement process and how stakeholder feedback shaped the model. NDHES will outline its plan for incorporating the model into a data-driven stream crossing prioritization program. The project empowers NH transportation, wildlife, and environmental stakeholders to continually develop a robust, efficient, and multi-benefit pipeline of crossing projects. By streamlining this process with quality data, flexible tools, intuitive training, and programmatic capacity, this project will contribute to the functioning and growth of a resilient NH.

Session 9A: UNH Team #2 - Will Stark - PFAS in Soils
Speakers: Will Stark
- Coming Soon!

Session 9B: UNH Team #9 - Nathan Straussberg -Marine Energy Collegiate Competition
Speakers: Nathan Straussberg
- Coming Soon!

Session 9C: UNH Team #14 - Tyler Beresford - Hopkinton Intersection Evaluation
Speakers: Tyler Beresford
- Coming Soon!

Session 13A: Best Practices in Rural Transit
Speaker: Jill Cahoon, AECOM
- Using national research and case studies, this presentation describes how rural transit agencies are utilizing creative approaches to making vital connections for rural residents. Building off national research conducted through the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) of the Transportation Research Board and on assessment of rural transit services and national capacity building support through the Thriving Communities Program, this presentation will discuss traditional and nontraditional funding programs, technology-based operational solutions, and examples of how agencies and regions are collaborating to address complex challenges. Come learn about what our rural peers are doing to expand access to alternative transportation options.

Session 13B: Embracing Complete Streets and the Safe System Approach in NH
Speakers: Bill Lambert, NHDOT
- The terms "complete streets" and "safe system approach" have recently gained traction among transportation agencies and advocacy groups across the nation. However, these concepts remain mere buzzwords unless supported by actionable strategies that transform an agency's culture and direction. This session will explore NHDOT's initial "Complete Streets Policy" and the steps taken to integrate complete streets and safe system elements into all projects and activities. Join us to learn how NHDOT is leading the way in creating safer, more inclusive roadways.

Session 17A: Certifying the Right of Way Acquisition Process - Best Practices
Speaker: Chip Johnson, OR Colan
- To advertise your project for construction, you must certify that the Right-of-Way acquisition process has been completed in compliance with Public Law 91-646 and it’s regulating mandates in 24 CFR Part 24, “The Uniform Act (URA)”. Compliance with the URA is critical in order to issue Right-of-Way certification. Failure to comply with the URA jeopardizes your ability to certify the right-of-way and risks your federal funding for the project. In this session, we will look at some of the more common pitfalls of the Right-of-Way acquisition process and discuss some best practices for avoiding those pitfalls and risking project advertising.

Session 17B: Wilton Railroad Crossing Project – Utility and Railroad Coordination
Speakers: Mike Mozer, NHDOT
- This session provides an overview of the reconstruction of two railroad crossings on NH 31 in the Town of Wilton. The project consisted of replacing two heavily skewed crossings to facilitate the movement of gravel, sand, and aggregates between the stone quarry and Granite State Concrete Company during short term road closures. The focus of this presentation will be the necessary coordination required between the Town, utilities, railroad operator, and the State to make this a successful project.