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    <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
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    <language>en-us</language>
    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
    <image>
      <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
      <url>https://rip.trb.org/Images/PageHeader-wTitle-RIP.jpg</url>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Digital process methods and implementations for field</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2724769</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Static information created by siloed production methods can lead to duplication of effort and lack of connectivity between
phases as information is passed between survey, design, construction, and asset management. In addition, not utilizing
effective change management strategies to update processes and train staff can slow progress in adoption of new digital
processes and approaches. This research will build on previously completed research to investigate and provide actionable
methods and change management strategies for utilizing digital processes and technology for construction field applications.
This research will identify and present strategies for streamlining processes for construction including but not limited to,
equipment procurement, staff training, integration of tools, and digital inspection methods.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:55:13 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2724769</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Identifying Precipitation Variability in Georgia 
</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2719329</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The primary objectives of this research project are to provide scientific evidence to support Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in choosing the correct scenario for each of the regions to reduce the risk of constructing drainage structures and a case study that explores how future rainfall conditions might impact construction costs if increases in precipitation are identified.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 11:52:56 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2719329</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Evaluating Construction Workforce Conditions and Their Effects on Productivity and Project Scheduling</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712203</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Transportation construction projects often involve accelerated schedules, extended work hours, and work performed in challenging environmental and safety-sensitive conditions. These conditions can affect the physical and mental well-being of state department of transportation (DOT) and contractor staff and may negatively influence workforce productivity, safety, and project delivery outcomes.

Long work hours, demanding schedules, and changing environmental conditions have contributed to growing concerns regarding workforce stress, burnout, fatigue, and mental health challenges within the construction industry. Research and industry surveys have highlighted the need to better understand how workforce conditions influence productivity and project performance. However, there is limited guidance on incorporating workforce well-being considerations into project scheduling, phasing, and construction management practices.

The objective of this research is to develop a guide to assist state DOTs in evaluating environmental, physical, and mental conditions affecting the transportation construction workforce and their impact on productivity and scheduling expectations. The research is intended to support healthier, safer, and more sustainable project delivery practices.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 2026 11:14:16 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712203</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Develop a Risk-Based Framework for Selecting Hydrologic, Hydraulic, and Scour Criteria for Temporary Hydraulic Structures and Encroachments</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712198</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Temporary hydraulic structures, such as bridges, culverts, and temporary access fills, are widely used during construction and emergency response to maintain transportation access and restore mobility following infrastructure damage. Unlike permanent structures, these installations are often designed for shorter service lives and may not meet the same hydrologic and hydraulic criteria. However, current design practices vary significantly across state departments of transportation, with no consistent national guidance for determining appropriate risk levels or design storm frequencies.

 Recent studies indicate that many agencies rely on case-by-case assessments, qualitative risk evaluations, or inconsistent application of evaluation criteria for temporary structures. Additionally, there is limited use of quantitative risk models and little integration of factors such as traffic impacts, environmental considerations, and failure consequences. The lack of standardized guidance can result in designs potentially contributing to increased conservatism and lifecycle costs, or to reduced system resilience and increased risk in some scenarios. Research is needed to identify and incorporate factors such as costs, structure lifespan, traffic, scour conditions, environmental impacts, failure risks, and regional variability to help determine how to select hydrologic, hydraulic, and scour criterion for temporary structures and to measure performance.

The objectives of this research are to develop (1) a practitioner’s guide and a data-driven risk-based decision-making framework for selecting hydrologic, hydraulic, and scour design criteria for temporary hydraulic structures and encroachments; and (2) a standalone memorandum with language suitable for AASHTO’s consideration in evaluating potential updates to the AASHTO Drainage Manual.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 17:42:06 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712198</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Best Practices for Establishing Tribal Cultural Resource Monitoring Protocols</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712188</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Tribal cultural resource monitoring involves tribal members in testing or data recovery projects in areas that have known precontact or contact period archaeological sites, or that have been identified as having high potential to contain such resources. Construction projects on tribal land or in areas with known or suspected cultural resources of tribal interest may also be subject to tribal cultural resource monitoring. Ideally, tribal cultural resource monitors are culturally affiliated with the project area and are provided with special training from their tribal leaders.

The participation of tribal monitors presents the opportunity to apply indigenous knowledge to the identification and interpretation of historic properties and provides an opportunity for tribes to be involved early in project planning. Such participation benefits state departments of transportation (DOTs) by identifying concerns early so that steps can be taken to avoid, minimize, or mitigate the impact a project may have on resources that are important or sacred to tribes.

Typically, when tribal cultural resource monitoring is required, state DOTs seek out tribal input, and negotiate and execute the monitoring agreement, on a project-by-project basis. This consultation can take time and effort for the state DOT by establishing engagement protocols and guidance on methods of implementation to improve the quality and timeliness of this consultative process for all parties.

The objective of this research is to research and document successful, meaningful, and effective tribal engagement practices and protocols applied during the project delivery process. This research shall emphasize the benefits of tribal cultural resource monitoring and draw from the experience of states where successful tribal cultural resource monitoring agreements are in place.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:54:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712188</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Post-World War II Institutional Buildings: Expediting Section 106 Review through a Better Understanding of Practices at a National Level</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712187</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In the postwar era, many Americans moved from cities to newly developed suburbs. This extensive postwar construction is or is approaching fifty years old and must be considered for eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). Institutional buildings, the community-focused resources tied to the spread of residential development, are found in large numbers across the country. These include schools, hospitals, city halls, courthouses, fire and police stations, libraries, churches, veteran’s and fraternal organization buildings, National Guard armories, post offices, airports, and parks.

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires that federal agencies and recipients of federal funds consider the effects of construction projects on properties that are eligible for listing on the NRHP. The volume of postwar property evaluations can be overwhelming for state departments of transportation (DOTs), FHWA division offices, and state and tribal historical preservation officers. In addition, evaluations of these properties are highly diverse in physical form and materials, reflecting a wide range of historic trends and architectural contexts, and have not been extensively studied or documented. As a result, evaluations may use inconsistent approaches and require significant time and staff resources.

The objective of the research is to develop a constituent evaluation methodology to determine NRHP eligibility of postwar institutional buildings, which would be replicable throughout the United States at different levels of government. The research should provide a definition of common institutional property types and a tool for evaluating ubiquitous, vernacular versions of institutional resources that pose the greatest challenge to practitioners and consulting parties.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:14:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712187</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Integrated Utility Relocation Scheduling: A National Framework for Reducing Project Delays</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712171</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Utility relocations are a critical component of highway project delivery, yet they continue to be a leading cause of construction delays and cost overruns. Previous studies have examined how utility conflicts affect highway construction and emphasized the need to better integrate utility relocation activities into project scheduling. Even when utilities are identified early and coordination is established, many projects still experience schedule risks because relocation timelines are not fully aligned with construction sequencing. The research recommended moving beyond conflict identification to develop structured scheduling practices that define activities, durations, and dependencies using common project-management tools and formats compatible with department of transportation (DOT) scheduling systems.

Research is therefore needed to document current practices, identify gaps and successful approaches, and develop a national framework and guide for integrated utility relocation scheduling. This framework will define the essential elements of detailed, data-informed relocation schedules; provide methods to align them with project construction timelines; and incorporate utility owners’ operational needs and constraints. The resulting guide would enable agencies and utilities to improve schedule predictability, reduce delays, and achieve more reliable, coordinated project delivery nationwide.

The objective of this research is to develop a framework and guide for integrating detailed utility relocation schedules into highway project delivery. The framework will define standardized practices for developing, coordinating, and maintaining structured, data-informed relocation schedules that align with overall project timelines and activities.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:44:48 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2712171</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Research for the AASHTO Standing Committee on Planning. Task 66. Improved Methods for Assessing Social, Cultural, and Economic Effects of Transportation Projects
</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2706280</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The objective of this project is to review practices in state Departments of Transportation and Metropolitan Planning Organizations that are using information about the human environment earlier in the transportation planning process and synthesize effective approaches.  In addition, identify existing or emerging community and social impact assessment practices to develop indicators of quality of life (QOL) to be employed in the CIA process.  These cross-cutting indicators should include information about the human environment such as community cohesion, impacts to housing and employment, cultural resources, aesthetic values and the availability or access to public facilities and services.  These components of QOL will be translated into a measurement tool using a variety of data sources that will serve to develop a baseline assessment of a community from which projections of effects can be made.

The report includes a description of current state DOT and MPO practices in assessing transportation impacts on the human environment; examples of indicators or criteria that contribute or detract from QOL; a baseline set of QOL measures that can be derived from typical data sources; and a description of the uses of QOL indicators in assessing transportation impacts on communities.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 14:55:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2706280</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Louisiana International Terminal and the Violet Community: A Development Study &amp; Project Implementation Support Framework</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2698371</link>
      <description><![CDATA[As the Port of New Orleans moves forward with $1.2 billion in investments for the development of the Louisiana International Terminal and associated road and rail improvements in St. Bernard Parish’s Violet community, this three-phase project engages transportation industry stakeholders and the Violet, Louisiana community to identify the need for education and workforce development, local infrastructure improvements and capital project opportunities to support future community and economic developments within the area. This research seeks to determine how to mitigate impacts and optimize community benefit whenever a new billion-dollar maritime project is constructed, using Violet as a case study.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 20:01:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2698371</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Post Construction Analysis of Major, Mega and Regionally Significant Projects</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2671992</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will develop a framework (methodology) for evaluating post-construction outcomes of Major, Mega, or regionally significant projects. Evaluation metrics may include but are not limited to: efficiency in project delivery, effects on traffic mobility, safety, and economic impact. The framework developed by this project is intended to be implemented by future Major/Mega/regional projects to improve the transportation project delivery process. Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) measures performance through state performance measures, MAPSS (Mobility, Accountability, Preservation, Safety and Service); federal performance measures (e.g., reliability, emissions, delay, etc.); and other continuous improvement programs. These efforts focus on aggregate statewide metrics that may not reveal detailed insights from individual projects. WisDOT Majors and Mega projects are generally transformative in nature and represent some of the most complex and costly investments in maintaining safe and efficient infrastructure. Having a better understanding of project-specific post-construction outcomes would improve planning and design decisions for future projects, build confidence that proposed benefits of significant projects are being realized, and provide accountability.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 14:23:40 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2671992</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Best Practices for TxDOT Constructability Reviews (CRs)</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2652071</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The research team will provide a framework to minimize project issues through improved Constructability Reviews (CRs). The research team will develop a cost/benefit analysis to justify CRs on projects of all scopes. The research team will develop a Guidebook of Best Practices will be developed to help the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) improve construction plan quality and minimize project durations and costs. The Guidebook will discuss using knowledgeable construction personnel to review, ensuring adequate time for reviewing, ensuring clear and relevant comments that designers consider and implement, and ensuring that new lessons are continuously communicated back to design teams.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:26:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2652071</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic  57-12. Practices for Incentivizing Contractor Performance for Progressive-Design-Build and Construction Manager/General Contractor Highway Projects
</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2630479</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) have developed a variety of approaches to incentivize contractors for progressive-design-build (PDB) and construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC) highway projects. Incentives for these procurement types encourage contractors to proactively address risks, innovate, and develop accurate estimates. Examples include financial incentives, collaborative workshops, early engagement, and public reporting. The goal is to ensure that contractors remain motivated to optimize the schedule and reduce costs, ultimately leading to successful project outcomes.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this synthesis is to document state DOT practices related to incentivizing contractor performance for PDB and CM/GC highway projects. The synthesis will encompass incentive and disincentive strategies used throughout the life of a project to enhance contractor performance.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:32:12 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2630479</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis:  Evaluate Safety Effectiveness of Pedestrian Elements Constructed through Various Funding Mechanisms</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2604568</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Evaluating the effectiveness of pedestrian infrastructure constructed through various funding mechanisms is essential for optimizing future project selection and ensuring data-driven decision-making. Traditional evaluations often rely on crash data alone, which may not fully capture the broader impacts of these projects on pedestrian safety, mobility, and accessibility. This project will develop a systematic methodology to assess the post-construction effectiveness of pedestrian elements by incorporating key performance indicators such as pedestrian activity levels, near-miss incidents, crash rate trends, and demographic factors. The project will analyze Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT's) existing project selection processes, summarize the geographic distribution of past projects, and conduct an evaluation of their effectiveness across different regional and demographic contexts. Emerging best practices will be identified to enhance the integration of post-construction evaluation measures into funding decisions, ensuring that pedestrian infrastructure investments yield measurable safety and mobility benefits. The project will produce a structured framework for assessing pedestrian infrastructure performance, supporting TxDOT's goal of improving pedestrian safety and fostering sustainable, data-informed transportation planning.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:43:31 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2604568</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 56-23. Practices for Integrating Geotechnical and Geologic Data into Digital Delivery Products




</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) are increasingly adopting digital technologies throughout project lifecycles, with many moving toward digital deliverables for construction and comprehensive asset management environments for improved data access and utility. While several states have made significant progress in generating structured digital subsurface data, fewer have developed methods—such as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)—for integrating this data efficiently into digital workflows. Geotechnical model development remains challenging, particularly in relation to data quality, reliability, provenance, and governance.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this synthesis project is to document state DOT practices and policies on the deployment of digital geotechnical and geologic data in the DOTs’ digital workspace.   ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 May 2025 12:41:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Effective Practices for Best-Value Construction Projects</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558412</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Several state departments of transportation (DOTs) have successfully used the best-value approach to procure highway projects through design-bid-build (DBB), construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC), design-build (D-B), progressive design-build (PDB), and public-private partnership (PPP) highway projects. NCHRP LRD 90: Best Value Procurement for Highway Construction: Legal Issues and Strategies describes current practices. 

However, state DOTs have limited research-based resources to assist with best-value procurements, such as how a state DOT might decide what award algorithm, evaluation criteria, weight ranges, and scoring systems to use to select the best design and construction team to achieve a project’s goals. The resources also do not link project performance metrics to procurement processes. Research is needed to identify how state DOTs could enhance their procurement processes to use best-value procurement effectively. 

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to develop a guide with examples that identify effective practices for best-value construction procurements.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2025 20:38:49 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558412</guid>
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